Apple WatchOS vs Google WearOS: Which One Should You Choose?
What is really the better smartwatch operating system?
New Delhi: It all started when Google introduced its Wear OS in 2014, loaded on the Samsung Gear Live and the LG G Watch. Apple wasn’t far behind when it launched its Apple WatchOS the following year, alongside its first Apple Watch. Since then, fans have been divided over which OS is better, and for those who still don’t know which OS is better for them, here is a detailed comparison of the two.
Apple Watch operating system
Apple Watch OS, or watchOS, is the operating system designed for the Apple Watch. It is based on iOS, the operating system used by iPhones, and was first released on April 24, 2015, along with the Apple Watch. Over the years, Apple has updated the WatchOS, allowing users to perform various tasks on their Apple Watch, such as calling, texting, and reading emails. Some of the features of Watch OS include quick access to Siri, sleep tracking, SOS, emergency detection, and customization options. Apple WatchOS is available in 45 languages, with updates delivered via over-the-air (OTA) updates, which require an iPhone 5 or later with iOS 8.2 or later and within 30 feet of the phone.
Google WearOS
Wear OS, formerly known as Android Wear, is a version of Google’s Android operating system designed specifically for smartwatches and wearables. Launched in 2014, it integrates Google Assistant technology (now Gemini) and mobile notifications into a smartwatch form factor by pairing with mobile phones running Android version 6.0 “Marshmallow” or newer, or iOS version 10.0 or newer with limited support Google’s link application. Wear OS supports several connectivity options such as Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, 3G and LTE, along with features such as voice control with the ‘OK Google’ hotword, gesture-based input and a range of applications. The platform offers customizable watch faces in round, square and rectangular styles and is supported by hardware manufacturers such as Asus, Fossil, LG, Samsung, Huawei and others. Wear OS also offers features like notification syncing, voice control, Google services integration (Google Assistant, Gmail, Google Maps), support for third-party watch apps, and a variety of tiles and apps for customization.
When choosing between Apple watchOS and Google Wear OS, the choice largely depends on your device compatibility, voice assistant preferences, interface customization, and app support. Anyway, feel free to consider some of the key differences listed here:
- Compatibility: Apple watchOS is exclusive to Apple Watches and requires an iPhone for installation and optimal functionality. Google Wear OS, on the other hand, is compatible with a wide range of smartwatches from different manufacturers and works with both Android and iOS devices.
- Voice assistants: Apple watchOS uses Siri, while Google Wear OS supports the Google Assistant. Both assistants offer similar functionalities, but personal preference may determine which one you prefer.
- Interface customization: Both operating systems allow users to customize their interfaces with different watch faces and tiles. Apple watchOS offers unique features such as the Walkie-Talkie function, while Wear OS offers ample options for customization via different watch faces and bands.
- Application support: Apple generally has a more extensive selection of apps designed for watchOS, but Wear OS is quickly catching up with its own library of popular smartwatch apps. Users can explore available apps on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store to see which platform offers the applications they want.
The latest Apple Watch Series 8 currently runs WatchOS 10 and features advanced health tracking, an ECG app, fall detection and more!
On the other hand, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is powered by WearOS 4 with a multipath health sensor, new safety features and more.