Android Wear: Overview

“Ok Google”, Android Wear is now reality. Android Wear is a version of Google’s Android mobile operating system that is designed to be used on smartwatches. Wear was announced by Google in March but the first few devices that will run Android Wear were shown off at Google I/O 2014.

Android Wear connects your Android phone to your smartwatch. By saying “Ok Google”, you can command the watch to do variety of different tasks. You can respond to texts, instant messages, and even emails by voice. You can also ask questions such as the time, weather, and directions.

LG G Watch: Available for pre-order now

Other commands include playing and pausing music, checking who’s calling you, checking commute times and appointments, and making reminders.

Since Android Wear is a version of the Android operating system, and can be used by different manufacturers, it allows developers to easily make third-party apps for watches. These apps are going to enhance the users experience even more. Google has already demoed the Eat24 app which allows people to order pizza from your watch.

The new watch OS is Google’s way of trying to dominate the wearable industry. Currently, there are three smartwatches that runs on Android Wear. They are the LG G Watch, Moto 360, and the Samsung Gear Live. The LG G Watch and the Gear Live are available for pre-order today and Google says the Moto 360 will be available later this summer.

Moto 360: Available this summer

Previous smartwatches have used proprietary software such as Samsung’s own Tizen operating system for their smartwatches. Android Wear will help unify the smartwatch industry.

Source: Android