Major brand stops using Google gadget after nine years and goes back to basics
A TOP brand has dealt a major blow to Google fans after announcing it would be abandoning smartwatches.
And the company behind them has released an important update for existing users about the future of their devices.
Google's Wear OS is the main rival to the global leader, Apple Watch.
Fossil has been making smartwatches with Google software since 2015 and is one of the biggest names in the field.
But the American fashion designer has revealed he is giving up tech gadgets and going back to basics, focusing instead on traditional watches.
Rumors have been swirling about Fossil's future in the smartwatch business since its last product release all the way back in 2021 with the Gen 6.
Speculation grew further when the company was noticeably missing from the world's biggest tech show this year, where it usually shows off its latest smartwatch devices.
A Fossil executive said the company is shutting down because “the smartwatch landscape has evolved significantly in recent years.”
Users aren't terribly surprised by the news, but say it's the “end of an era.”
“Wear OS might not exist today if not for Fossil,” someone wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“They adamantly supported the platform even when Google wasn't sure what to do with it. The end of an era is certain.”
Another commented: “What a disappointment.”
A third wrote: “As someone who used to own two Fossil smartwatches, they will be missed.”
Is Google losing the battle against Apple Watch?
Analysis by Jamie Harris, Senior Technology and Science Reporter at The Sun
The writing was on the wall for the future of Fossil's smartwatches, as it hasn't released any new smartwatches since 2021. However, the move is a blow to Google's Wear OS in light of the ever-popular Apple Watch holding the biggest share of the pie. worldwide.
As a fashion brand, Fossil primarily came up with designs that appealed to people who wanted technical features in a traditional-looking watch.
Google may not be so upset, as it has increasingly focused on releasing its own smartwatches since acquiring Fitbit, including Pixel watches.
And Google still has the power over Samsung making Wear OS smartwatches.
Jeff Boyer, Fossil's executive vice president and chief operating officer, said The edge: “As the smartwatch landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, we have made the strategic decision to exit the smartwatch business.
“Fossil Group is refocusing resources to support our core strength and the core segments of our business that continue to provide strong growth opportunities for us: designing and distributing exciting traditional watches, jewelry and leather goods under both our own and licensed brand names. “
What does this mean for my Fossil smartwatch?
Anyone who currently owns a Fossil smartwatch may be concerned about whether they will still receive software updates following news of the company's product changes.
Fortunately, it looks like you won't be left in the dark.
According to The Verge, Boyer said Fossil will continue to provide updates to existing Wear OS devices for “years to come.”