Android fans are excited about Google’s release of Android Wear 2.0 and with good reason. The previous version was primarily an extension of the Android phone. Now smartwatches supporting Android Wear 2.0 give users more freedom and personalization.
New Features
We’ve talked about the importance of both user interface and knowing your users multiple times on our blog. Anytime you can simplify an action or improve user experience, you should. Google has taken notes on how users actually use their smart watches made improvements in the areas that would make the most impact.
Watch Faces
One of the best things about smartwatches is the ability to see information at a glance. The new watch faces can be customized with 3rd party widgets so you get exactly the information you need when you need it. Now your face can be both functional and stylish.
Health
When at the gym or out on a run, phones just get in the way. If you use your phone to track steps or play music, strapping it to your body to take it along for the ride has been a necessity. Android Wear 2.0 has solved that problem. It can track your workouts and even stream music all on its own.
Cutting the Cord
The ability for Android Wear watches to access the internet on their own is the most beneficial feature of Android Wear 2.0. It gives independence to the device and positions it to be a more viable option for iPhone users. Watches have their own Play Store and connection so users can manage and download new apps directly from their watch. Messages can be sent and received on-the-go with ease.
Google Assistant
Making life more hands-free is the powerful Google Assistant. Add items to your shopping list, set alarms, take notes, and more without ever having to take your phone out.
Supported Watches*
ASUS ZenWatch 2 & 3, Casio Smart Outdoor Watch, Casio PRO TREK Smart, Fossil Q Founder, Fossil Q Marshal, Fossil Q Wander, Huawei Watch, LG G Watch R, LG Watch Urbane & 2nd Edition LTE, Michael Kors Access Smartwatches, Moto 360 2nd Gen, Moto 360 for Women, Moto 360 Sport, New Balance RunIQ, Nixon Mission, Polar M600 and TAG Heuer Connected.
*List pulled from Google Product Blog
