Google has officially stepped into the wearable market. The search giant has announced Android version of the operating system designed for wearable devices. Initially the OS will be for smartwatches, and Google is moving quickly to make itself relevant in the wearable market.
According to the two videos the company has released, we get to see what the watch interface will look like, and we like what we see so far. In addition, LG and Motorola are the first companies to take advantage of this new wearable OS as we can see in the video below.
Among the key features we have fitness with Google able to get “real-time speed, distance and time information on your wrist for your run, cycle or walk.” If you were wondering, yes Google Maps will be built in so that you’ll be able to get directions directly from your wrist. How cool. The Google Now UI on the smartwatch will be able to deliver passive reminders 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.
For voice searches, all you need to say is OK Google” . Lastly, the company is teasing multi-screen functionality from the smartwatches that use the operating system. It’s not hard to imagine exciting uses for this technology as Google works to get Android into more hardware around the world, such as the connected smart-homes and cars of the future.
The company says it is also already working with current Android partners like Asus, HTC, LG, Motorola, and Samsung on wearables. LG’s first device with Android Wear will be called the G Watch, and it’s being produced in collaboration with Google as they do with Nexus devices.
Google says that the circular watch in the preview videos is Motorola’s upcoming smartwatch. In addition, we’ve been told that LG will not be the first to ship an Android Wear smartwatch. The LG device will be available in the second quarter of this year.
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