Google has just released an update of its operating system for SmartWatch, Android Wear. The update came just days before Apple launched the highly anticipated Apple Watch. Random?
The updated version brings new features such as hands-free actions, always-on applications, WiFi support (!) and an emoji manager. The new additions will help Android Wear devices like the LG Watch Urbane and Moto 360 compete with the Apple Watch.
For example, WiFi support allows users to leave their phone at home when they go somewhere, and will continue to receive notifications, send messages using Android Wear smartwatch apps - as long as they are connected to WiFi.
Unlike the Apple Watch, which can only connect to an iPhone over Wi-Fi, even if both devices are on the same network, Android Wear devices will be able to work together, even if they're in different networks.
Meanwhile, the new feature του Android Wear, hands-free καθιστά ευκολότερη την περιήγηση, επιτρέποντας στους χρήστες με ένα ελαφρό τίναγμα του καρπού τους προς τα έξω να προχωρήσουν στην “επόμενη καρτέλα” του stream, ή προς τα μέσα για να πάνε στη “προηγούμενη καρτέλα”.
As the "in digital crown” of the Apple Watch, this feature is designed to address the problem of scrolling information on a tiny screen, where fingers are often very clumsy.
The always-on app feature helps the user make certain apps - such as maps or shopping lists - remain visible on the SmartWatch screen in a low power mode.
In a direct assault on Apple Watch, which requires the user to move his wrist to see the time, Google said that the Android Wear watches they do not require "tapping, twisting or some movement" to see what time it is.
Finally, updating Android lets users quickly reply to a friend message by painting an emoji on the clock screen. Google will recognize the emoji that fits and will send it.
This means that users will no longer need to use voice commands, which may be inappropriate in public places or meetings.
LG Watch Urbane will be the first watch to get the update of Android Wear, but an over-the-air update will be released for all other Android Wear very soon, according to Google.