(Getty)
Android Wear is a new operating system for smartwatches, created by Google. Here’s what we know about this cool new development.
1. Android Wear Has Cool Fitness Features
Google released the video above to showcase the look and feel of Android Wear.
The Verge reports that fitness is a big component of Android Wear. They explain:
“Google says that you’ll be able to get “real-time speed, distance and time information on your wrist for your run, cycle or walk.” In addition, the company will be using Google Now in the watches. Automatic, passive reminders will be sent to users via their smartwatch. It will also connect with Android smartphones so that you’ll be able to get all the notifications that you want from whatever apps you have installed on your phone.”
2. LG G Watch Likely to Be the First Android Wear Smartwatch
The LG G Watch will be powered by Android Wear http://t.co/GRV7YszpRP pic.twitter.com/MSZCYX0qFI
— The Verge (@verge) March 18, 2014
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According to Engadget, LG’s upcoming G Watch is going to run on Android Wear. Not much is known about the watch yet, but it is expected to launch next quarter. The LG G Watch is likely to be one of the first, if not the first, Android Wear watches to hit the market.
3. Google Also Partnering with Samsung & HTC
The Moto 360 will also be powered by Android Wear http://t.co/GRV7YszpRP pic.twitter.com/Umk4praCTv
— The Verge (@verge) March 18, 2014
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CNET notes that, in addition to LG, Android Wear will also be available on devices from HTC and Samsung. ASUS, Fossil, and Motorola will also offer Android Wear products.
4. Android Wear Operates Similarly to Google Glass
The New York Times points out the similarities between how Android Wear items and Google Glass operate:
“LG said that after users say to the watch, “OK Google,” followed by a voice command, the screen would present relevant information. That is similar to the voice-controlled system used for navigating Google Glass, the Internet-connected monocle, and Moto X, the smartphone that Motorola developed for Google.”
By getting consumers acclimated to Google Glass commands on a less obtrusive, wearable device, Android Wear might help convince some consumers to try out Google Glass when it launches later this year.
5. More Details About Android Wear Expected in June
The video above shows even more ways you can use Android Wear.
For now, details are scarce about Android Wear. The Verge notes that Android fans can expect to hear a lot more about Android Wear’s capabilities this summer. The Verge writes:
“Google isn’t offering specific details on when we can expect to see more about Android Wear — or what other devices will use the system in the future — but a preview of the operating system is available now so that developers can make sure their app notifications will work with Wear.
We expect to hear much, much more about Android Wear at Google I/O from June 25th to 26th, which is just a couple of months away.”
