Wear OS 5 is coming to older Pixel Watches – here’s everything included in Google’s patch

Matthew Miller/ZDNET

Beginning right this moment, Google is rolling out an enormous patch to the primary Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2 through an OTA (over the air) replace. Not solely will these units acquire Put on OS 5, however they’re additionally getting a brand new app and “quite a few bug fixes.”

The patch notes we acquired did not checklist each addition, however we have now sufficient information to color a strong image. Put on OS 5, for instance, introduces a grid-based app launcher just like the software program structure seen on some third-party smartwatches. 

Additionally: 5 reasons why I’m glad I upgraded to the Pixel Watch 3

Many customers choose a grid because it reduces the quantity of scrolling required to seek out an app. Nonetheless, in the event you choose the list-based launcher, Google says you may revert to the previous model by the system settings.

Well being Companies, as a part of Put on OS 5, now “helps extra knowledge sorts associated to working.” This contains Floor Contact Time —  the full time an individual’s foot is involved with the bottom — and Stride Size, which refers back to the “distance coated by a single step.”

As for the additional app, Google is bringing over Recorder from the Pixel Watch 3. Recorder stands out from comparable software program by having an AI-powered transcription characteristic. Each time an audio recording is accomplished, the software mechanically creates a textual content abstract.

Lastly, an organization consultant advised us, the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 are going to obtain the identical improved Digital camera controls as seen on the Pixel Watch 3. 

On the time of this writing, we do not know what the bug fixes will entail. Nonetheless, a publish itemizing all of the repairs might be added finally to the Pixel Watch Security Bulletins page.

Additionally: One of the best Android smartwatches I’ve tested made me consider switching to the Pixel

The patch, in accordance with Google, goes to be launched in waves “over the following week”. Its availability is dependent upon your provider and system. You may obtain a notification as soon as the replace is obtainable for set up.

To obtain a system replace, go to the System Updates part within the Pixel Watch’s Settings menu. The system then begins to verify for out there patches; if it finds any, the wearable installs the software program. Your smartwatch will restart instantly as soon as the method is completed.

Extra detailed directions on easy methods to obtain a system replace will be discovered on Google’s support website

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