Google reveals Android Wear, an operating system for smartwatches
Google is officially getting into wearables. The company has announced Android Wear, a version of the operating system designed specifically for wearable devices.
March 2014
To start with, the system is made for smartwatches, and Google is moving aggressively to make itself the key name in wearables.
The company has released two videos that show off what the watch
interface will look like, and from what we've seen, it's very
impressive.
There are several key features
that have been announced. Of course, fitness is a key component. 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." Naturally, that
means Google Maps will be built in so that you'll be able to get
directions directly from your wrist.
The company will also be using
Google Now in the watches. Automatic, passive reminders will be sent to
users via their smartwatch. The watches 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, à 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.
