The arrival of Android Wear 2.0 has been the most-awaited update for many of the smartwatch users. The new wearable OS comes with exciting features like the fitness app and Google Assistant in tow.
Google started rolling out the update to some devices in March. However, reports reveal that the company has decided to delay the Android Wear 2.0 update for most smartwatches.
In a statement to Wareable, Google confirmed that the update has indeed been put on hold. This is the second time that the Android Wear 2.0 rollout was delayed. It was initially supposed to be pushed out in 2016, but Google decided to postpone its arrival to 2017.
Why The Delay?
Google launched the update on Feb. 8, for the LG Watch Style and the Watch Sport smartwatches. However, some other smartwatches also started getting the Android Wear 2.0 update on March 29.
"We have started rolling out the Android Wear 2.0 update to Fossil Q Founder, Casio Smart Outdoor Watch WSD-F10 and Tag Heuer Connected. For other devices, the update is currently being delayed due to a bug found in final testing. We will push the update to the remaining devices as soon as the issue is resolved," said Google in a statement to Wareable.
The statement also clarifies which of the smartwatches have received the update, sans any bugs. Owners of these devices should be notified of the update by April 4.
For the rest of the devices, the update has been stalled and owners have to wait a few more days.
Many upcoming smartwatches have also already been revealed, which would come with Android Wear 2.0 preloaded.
What Android Wear 2.0 Brings
With the latest software update, users will no longer need to keep their smartphone handy to access apps through the smartwatch. Post the arrival of Android Wear 2.0, smartwatches would be able to use Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity to perform standalone tasks, which they were unable to perform before.
For instance, users will be able to make and receive calls and texts directly through the smartwatch itself, without using the smartphone's connectivity.
Along with this, the update is also slated to bring Google Play Store to supported wearables. This would allow users to browse and download apps straight to the smartwatch.
Android Wear 2.0 also brings Android Pay support for Near Field Communication-equipped smartwatches.
Other interesting features include the arrival of the Google Assistant, enhanced Google Fit, significantly overhauled Watch Faces, and a better notification display.
