2023’s finest: Google’s top picks for Wear OS apps
Google has published its selection for the top Wear OS apps of 2023. Leading the pack is WhatsApp, followed by two honourable mentions – AllTrails and Audible.
If you don’t have these apps on your timepiece, perhaps this will inspire you to give them a whirl. Of course, this is just Google’s pick. You will have your own opinions on the best of the best. But adding credence to Google’s selection are excellent user reviews of its chosen apps on the Google Play store.
The winner: WhatsApp messenger’s leap to Wear OS
WhatsApp, acquired by Facebook (now Meta) in 2014, has grown to over 2 billion users globally. But the service only made the leap to Wear OS 3 in July 2023. It has been available for a while on other platforms, so the addition was a long time coming. This integration allows for a transition of WhatsApp’s core functionalities to the wrist, enabling users to access chats, send voice messages, and more.
The app’s interface on Wear OS is designed to mirror the mobile experience, complete with a home screen displaying recent chats. A unique feature is the circular complication for watch faces, displaying unread message counts. The setup process is straightforward, requiring an eight-digit code to link the smartwatch and phone app.
On Google Play, the app has 184 million reviews and an average rating of 4.2.
Honorable mentions: AllTrails and Audible
AllTrains: Hike, Bike & Run
AllTrails has emerged as a standout app for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly appealing to the 60 million registered users who are part of its community. This app is an extensive guide to over 400,000 curated trails worldwide.
AllTrails caters to a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, running, and walking – offering detailed trail information, user reviews, and inspiration from fellow trail-goers. The app goes beyond just mapping routes; it helps users plan their adventures with in-depth trail info, from current conditions to GPS directions.
One of the key features of AllTrails is its inclusivity. The app provides options for custom route planning, helping users find trails that are dog-friendly, child-friendly, pram-friendly, or wheelchair-friendly. Additionally, the app’s community aspect is a significant draw, allowing users to connect and find inspiration for new journeys from like-minded individuals.
On Google Play, the app has 251,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.8.
Audible: Audio Entertainment
Audible, another honorable mention, stands as a powerhouse in the world of audio entertainment. With over 1.53 million reviews and an average rating of 4.5 on Google Play, the service offers a vast selection of audiobooks, podcasts, and exclusive originals. And you can enjoy all that conveniently on your Wear OS smartwatch.
The app’s versatility is evident in its extensive audio selection. Users can switch between reading and listening, making it easy to continue enjoying their favorite stories. Audible also offers features like adjustable narration speed and a sleep timer, catering to the individual preferences of listeners.
On Google Play, the app has 1.53 million reviews and an average rating of 4.5.
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