Android smartwatches are getting Spotify’s AI DJ, WhatsApp and updated Google apps

Image credit: Google

Google is updating Wear OS to bring new features, apps and app experiences to its smartwatch OS platform, the company announced today at the Google I/O developer conference. Features coming later this year include improvements to Google’s own first-party his apps like Gmail, Calendar and Home, as well as new and improved third-party apps like WhatsApp, Peloton and Spotify.

The company last updated its Wear OS platform two years ago, after which it partnered with Samsung on an integrated platform. This latest update isn’t as extensive, but it includes a number of improvements across the broader Wear OS app ecosystem.

This includes updates to Google’s own apps such as Google Home. To this is added the new Smart Home His Control, which allows users to control smart locks with added security via her two-factor authentication. Users can also control locks and other devices that have PINs assigned to them.

Image credit: Google

Meanwhile, Gmail for Wear OS will be updated later this year with new features focused on inbox triage and replying to emails from the watch’s small screen.

Also, later this year, the Google Calendar app will have extended access to upcoming schedules (upcoming events), event details that support actions (e.g. RSVP, delete, navigation), and tasks with actions (as completed). Mark and delete) will be added. ).

Image credit: Google

Elsewhere in the third-party app ecosystem, Google has announced several updates to apps like WhatsApp, Spotify and Peloton.

WhatsApp is coming to smartwatches for the first time with the release of Wear OS. It’s a notable bit of cynicism at Meta’s rival Apple. (The two companies have been at odds since Apple released his “Do Not Track” feature for iOS, which has affected Meta’s business.) His new WhatsApp smartwatch app allows users to message securely send and receive and catch up on chats from your wrist.

Image credit: Google

Spotify’s Wear OS app gets an update that brings new tile support, the ability to play new episodes from your favorite podcasts, see what’s in heavy rotation, and use Spotify’s new AI DJ right from your watch. Get

Image credit: Google

Peloton’s app also gains support for Peloton equipment-based workouts and tracking with a new tile that allows users to see their weekly workout progress at a glance.