Google announces Wear OS 7 with Live Updates, widgets, more
9to5Google • • general
Key Points:
- Google announced Wear OS 7 at Google I/O 2026, highlighting a redesigned user interface more aligned with Android’s design and improved battery efficiency, claiming a 10% reduction in power use compared to Wear OS 6.
- Wear OS 7 introduces redesigned widgets replacing full-screen tiles, a new notification system with dynamic Live Updates on the main watch face, and a universal workout-tracking experience for consistent exercise monitoring across apps.
- The update will feature Gemini Intelligence integration on select watches, enabling more personalized features and task automation through the new AppFunctions API, allowing seamless interaction with third-party apps like DoorDash.
- Media controls are enhanced with customizable auto-launch options and a Remote Output Switcher to manage audio outputs, including Google Cast and Bluetooth devices.
- Wear OS 7 will be released later in 2026, with a developer preview version, Wear OS 7 Canary, available immediately to facilitate easier navigation and watchface development.