Google Pixel Watch 1 and 2 get Wear OS 5

Google has started rolling out the long-awaited Wear OS 5 update for the Pixel Watch 1 and Pixel Watch 2. This update brings the older models up to par with the newer Pixel Watch 3 and includes numerous new features and performance improvements.

New features and improvements

Wear OS 5 comes with a new app launcher in grid view, which is designed to make navigation on the watch easier. There are also improved camera controls that allow you to operate the smartphone camera directly from the watch.

The Pixel Recorder allows audio recording directly on the watch. Fitness enthusiasts benefit from advanced running metrics such as ground contact time, stride length and vertical oscillation to support training.

The Pixel Watch 1 previously ran on Wear OS 3.5, while the Pixel Watch 2 was equipped with Wear OS 4.0. With the new update, both models are brought up to the same level as the Pixel Watch 3, which already came with Wear OS 5.

Performance improvements and bug fixes

In addition to the new features, the Wear OS 5 update also brings some performance improvements and bug fixes. Google has closed security gaps and improved the overall stability of the system. Users can look forward to faster and smoother operation.

The update will be delivered as an over-the-air update and should be available to all users in the next few weeks. Google explains in a support document that the update will be rolled out gradually. Once the update is available, users will receive a notification on their watch. It is advisable to connect the watch to a stable Wi-Fi connection during the update and to ensure that it is sufficiently charged.