Android Wear 2.0 Launched With Direct Play Store Download, Google Assistant, Cellular Networks

Short Bytes: The latest version of Google’s OS for smartwatches has arrived. Android Wear 2.0 features a redesigned UI, ability to download standalone apps directly from Google Play, cellular support, handwriting recognition, inbuilt keyboard, Google Assitant, etc. The Android Wear 2.0 update for various smartwatches will be pushed on February 15.

After announcing at last year’s Google I/O, Android Wear 2.0 has been launched by Google to give more powers to the computer sitting on your wrist. One of the main USPs of the latest Android Wear 2.0 is the ease to access Play Store and install apps directly on the smartwatch.

Until now, users have downloaded the versions of watch apps that are also compatible with the smartphones. Now, they can download standalone apps specially built for their smartwatch. Moreover, Android Wear 2.0 brings support for cellular networks, giving you the freedom to make calls and download apps without the need of a smartphone at all.

The watch faces are more customizable with information and data from various apps on the watch. A simple swipe allows users to switch between different watch faces depending on the type of activity they’re doing.

Android Wear 2.0 also comes with its maker’s in-house voice-activated digital friend, Google Assistant, which could be alerted by saying “OK Google”. Currently, the Google Assistant only knows English and German languages, with support for more languages coming in the future.

LG Watch Style and LG Watch Sport will be the first in the queue to get the Android Wear 2.0, that too, out of the box. Many existing smartwatches will be updated to Android Wear 2.0, once the roll out begins on Feb 19.