No more waiting: Force the Wear OS 5 update on your Pixel Watch
Google has announced that the Pixel Watch 1 and 2 will receive the Wear OS 5 update as part of the September 2024 software release. This brings the latest version of the operating system to these older models, previously exclusive to the Pixel Watch 3. Users can expect to receive the software over the next week or so. While the changes in appearance are subtle, WearOS 5 introduces a few new features, including an updated app layout and improved Gmail integration.
The update process is straightforward but may not appear immediately for all users. Here’s how you can manually check for the update, and if necessary, force it onto your Pixel Watch.
How to install wearOS 5 on Pixel Watch 1 or 2
Google tends to stagger its rollouts, so not everyone will see the update on your Pixel Watch as soon as it’s released. If you’re eager to get WearOS 5 right away, there’s a simple process you can try out.
To manually check for the update:
- Swipe down from the top of your watch to open the quick settings menu.
- Tap the Settings icon.
- Scroll to the bottom and select “System.”
- Tap on “System updates” to check if WearOS 5 is available.
If no update is shown, try a trick that has worked for many users. When in the “System updates” menu, start tapping repeatedly on the watch icon near the top of the screen. You may need to tap for a while, but eventually, the update may begin to download. This actually worked for me, both when installing on Pixel Watch 2 and Mobvoi Ticwatch 5 Pro.
Once WearOS 5 is installed, your watch will automatically reboot, and you’ll be running the latest version of Google’s operating system.
What’s new in wearOS 5
Visually, the changes in WearOS 5 are modest. One of the most noticeable updates is the shift from a list view of apps to an icon-based grid. This new layout offers a more compact and visual way to browse apps. However, if you’re not a fan of this grid-style interface, Google has included the option to revert to the list view. At the bottom of the app icons, there’s a toggle switch that allows users to switch back to the classic view with minimal fuss.
The watch faces have not changed significantly with this update. Familiar designs and styles are still present, so don’t expect a dramatic redesign. One of the more functional improvements is the inclusion of Gmail, which now comes pre-installed. This should make it easier for users who rely on Gmail for communication, especially when managing emails directly from the watch. But it might also have a negative effect on the battery.
According to the change-log, other changes include better fitness tracking with Health Services API, plus the interface now supports the Wear Compose library offering a more dynamic user interface for developers. The update also includes features to better manage app hibernation and improve privacy controls for data sharing.
Performance and battery life
Google says users should see some battery life improvements. Initial feedback, however, suggests that there hasn’t been a major change, positive or negative. However, as with most software updates, there could be optimization improvements that become more evident with time. It’s a good idea to monitor your watch’s battery performance in the days following the update.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
The overall experience of using WearOS 5 feels similar to its predecessor. However, Google’s focus appears to be on refining the user interface and making some changes under the hood.
For those keen to try out WearOS 5 right away, the tapping trick to force the update is worth trying. While it’s not a guaranteed solution, it has proven effective for many users. If you’re patient, though, the update should arrive on your device within a week or so.
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