While Apple supporters eagerly await the rumored iWatch reveal, Android Wear enthusiasts are celebrating after recent reports that new features are in the development pipeline for the OS, which will likely be released before the end of the year.
New Features
In an interview with CNET, Google engineers revealed plans to incorporate more design elegance in the smartwatch operating system (OS), while improving compatibility with other devices. “One of the things we’re going to be able to do is add the ability for these devices to start working with some of the other devices you might wear on your body,” David Singleton informs CNET.
Android Wear owners will be able to listen to music stored directly on supported devices using Bluetooth speakers and headphones. Users who purchased one of the earlier non-traditional Wear smartwatches will be able to spruce up their devices very soon by downloading new watch-face packs from the Google Play store. The engineers also noted that GPS support will be available and will work with Bluetooth accessories. This will allow runners to retrieve navigation information while still listening to their favorite music tracks. When asked how many developers are using the platform, Singleton reported seeing thousands of apps updated to support Android Wear.
Competition Heating Up
The world of Android Wear is heating up with several great-looking devices and more on the way. In fact, the platform is turning the heads of both consumers and device manufacturers alike. When Google first announced the platform, many noted the lack of traditional design sense for most of the smartwatches set to support Google’s new smartwatch operating system.
Users’ call for devices that aesthetically resemble a traditional timepiece was heard by LG, Motorola, and Samsung, who have now all announced more stylish Android Wear devices in the LG G Watch R, Moto 360, and Samsung Gear S, respectively. Even Sony recently joined the ranks, announcing their Smartwatch 3 for Google’s smartwatch OS.
Are you excited for the new wave of Android Wear changes?
Image courtesy of Flickr
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