4 Awesome Features That Latest Android Wear Update Brings

By Kamal Nayan - 20 Apr '15 13:26PM

Google's smartwatch platform Android Wear has received one of the biggest software update ahead of Apple Watch launch. Here're four major highlights from the update:

Wi-Fi Connectivity

The latest update bring Wi-Fi connectivity which means Android Wear users will be able to get notifications and send messages even if the phone is out of range.

Always On Display

This new feature is another welcome addition. Users of Android Wear won't have to tap or shake wrist to see what time it is or to re-visit an app. Along with the always on display feature, the update includes more gestures as well: By flicking your wrist outward, the software will advance the cards (weather, calendar and so on) in the stream - a flick inward reveals the previous cards.

Low-Power Mode

The new update includes a low-power mode for the screen when users are not actively looking at it. It allows apps to minimally display data, usually in black and white, without a gesture to turn the screen on.

Draw and Send Emoji

With the help of this feature, users will be able to draw emojis and send to friends via SMS, Hangouts and other messaging apps.

Reportedly, LG Watch Urbane, which goes on sale Friday, will be the first device to get the OTA (over the air) update. Google said other Android Wear watches will get the update "soon."