Google Pixel Watch update brings overdue Wear OS 5.1
The April update for the Pixel Watch is now rolling out, and for many users, it’s more than just a routine patch. If you missed the March release, this update delivers the full Wear OS 5.1 experience. There’s also a step algorithm change.
March update finally arrives for some
A frustration for some users was that Google’s March OTA didn’t reach them. They remained on older software, missing out on new features and system-level improvements. The April update is now addressing that. If you’ve been waiting for Wear OS 5.1 and Android 14, it’s all bundled in this new release.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
But one change from March didn’t make the cut. That update included a modified step tracking algorithm meant to improve accuracy during activities like stroller jogging, hiking with poles, or pushing a wheelchair. It didn’t pan out.
Users reported their step counts seemed too high in regular scenarios. In response, Google rolled that change back. If you already got the March or early April update, you’ll still be getting a new OTA – with the step count algorithm rollback.
So whether you’re catching up from November or just seeing a patch from earlier this month, this version puts all Pixel Watch users back on the same tracking foundation.
How to force the update
Google says the update is rolling out in phases, so you might not get it right away. But there’s a way to give it a push.
Go to Settings > System > System updates on your Pixel Watch. If you see the “Your watch is up to date” message, tap repeatedly on that screen—specifically, the watch icon at the top. Do this for about 30 seconds. In many cases, the update will begin downloading immediately after that. This trick is often effective, though not guaranteed.
To speed things up, you can also go to Connectivity preferences and temporarily turn off Bluetooth. This forces the watch to switch to Wi-Fi, which tends to download updates faster.
The new software version number is BP1A.250305.019.W8, and it’s rolling out now to all Pixel Watch models, including the original, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3.
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter! Check out our YouTube channel.
