Android Wear update takes the fight to Apple Watch

A new software release for Android Wear brings a slew of new features designed to challenge the Apple Watch
By Sophie Curtis 20 Apr 2015

Google has released an update for its smartwatch operating system, Android Wear, just days before Apple is due to start shipping its long-anticipated Apple Watch.
The update adds features such as hands-free actions, always-on apps, WiFi support and an emoji recogniser, all of which will help Android Wear devices like the LG Watch Urbane and Moto 360 compete with the Apple Watch.

• For example, WiFi support allows users to leave their phone at home when they go to the gym or to a party, and still receive notifications, send messages and use apps on their Android Wear smartwatch – as long as it is connected to WiFi.
• Unlike the Apple Watch, which can only connect to an iPhone over Wi-Fi if the two devices are on the same network, Android devices will be able to work together even if they are on different networks.
• Meanwhile, the new Android Wear hands-free feature makes it easier to navigate the interface, allowing users to flick their wrist outward to advance to the "next card" in the stream, or inward to go to the "previous card".
• Like the Apple Watch's "digital crown", this feature is designed to tackle the problem of scrolling through information on a tiny screen, where fingers are often too clumsy.
• The always-on apps feature means that the user can make certain apps – like maps or shopping lists – remain visible on the smartwatch screen in a low-power mode, even when they are not actively looking at it.

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