Google reveals Android Wear, an operating system for smartwatches

[techbeck]

 

Google is officially getting into wearables. The company has announced Android Wear, a version of the operating system designed specifically for wearable devices. To start with, the system is designed for smartwatches, and Google has released two videos that show off what the watch interface will look like.

 

There are several key features that have been announced. Of course, fitness is a key feature. 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.

 

 

You'll also be able to say "OK Google" to perform voice searches, a la Google Now. Lastly, the company is teasing multi-screen functionality from the smartwatches that use the operating system. As an example, Google says that you can use a voice command to cast a video to your Chromecast or get a certain song to play on your phone.

 

The company says it is already working with current Android partners like Asus, HTC, LG, Motorola, and Samsung on wearables, and Engadget reports that LG will be the first to ship an Android Wear smartwatch. Today's unveil lines up with rumors from The Wall Street Journal earlier this year, which suggested that LG's smartwatch would hold a similar position as its Nexus smartphones. Google is working to make sure these watches aren't hideous: Fossil and other "fashion brands" will apparently offer watches using the operating system later this year.

 

 

In many ways, Android Wear seems like it's built off of the work the company did on Google Glass. The operating system looks fairly similar to the interface used by the controversial wearable. It's possible that Google has transformed that work into something that's less polarizing.

 

Today's announcement follows comments from Android and Chrome chief Sundar Pichai at SXSW last week. He confirmed that the company was working on offering tools for developers and manufacturers to make Android better suited for devices such as smartwaches. In addition, Google recently purchased Nest, the makers of the Nest Learning Thermostat and the Protect smoke detector. It's still unclear what role Nest will be taking within the company.

 

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.

 

http://www.theverge.com/2014/3/18/5522226/google-reveals-android-wear-an-operating-system-designed-for

[BajiRav]

G-SPOT is real folks!

[tsupersonic]

G-SPOT is real folks!

Yeah, I'm going to venture a guess and say that name will never make it for one of these devices.

[The Dark Knight]

VERY Cool! Will definitely get a couple of these once they are out in the market! :D

[LittleNeutrino Veteran]

that looks awesome... I need it!!

[Kalint]

Looks good.  My friend has the samsung smartwatch and what a pile.