Google is preparing to discontinue support for Google Assistant on Wear OS 2 watches, urging users to consider upgrading to Wear OS 3 and newer versions.
The latest version of the Wear OS companion app (Version 2.65.11.552438494) contains a noteworthy string that announces the imminent conclusion of Google Assistant support on these watches. The message advises users to switch to a more recent watch model that is compatible with Google Assistant and operates on Wear OS 3 or later.
This change in support primarily affects watches running Wear OS 2 or earlier. With the introduction of Wear OS 3, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) assumed responsibility for the phone app associated with the platform.
On the other hand, Wear OS 2, and its predecessor Android Wear, relied on the Google app to power and update Assistant, much like the arrangement seen on Android smartphones and tablets.
Wear OS 3 watches, however, enjoy a distinct “Google Assistant” app available on the Play Store. This app was initially launched on the Galaxy Watch 4 in May 2022, followed by its availability on the Pixel Watch in October and Fossil devices in June. The app requires Android 11 and above and offers a modern design along with voice commands for tasks such as managing time, communicating with contacts, controlling smart home devices, and seeking information.
The transition from Assistant on Wear OS 2 to Wear OS 3 aligns with Google’s efforts to streamline its support focus. While there isn’t a precise date mentioned for the discontinuation of Assistant on Wear OS 2, Google’s emphasis seems to be on promoting the use of more recent and capable hardware.
Importantly, Google’s commitment to enhancing Assistant on Wear OS 3 and 4 remains evident, as voice interactions hold significant value on smaller wearable screens. The recent discovery of a new Assistant tile with customizable actions and Google’s efforts to integrate large language models (LLMs) into Assistant further demonstrate the company’s dedication to enhancing the user experience on wearables.
This development marks a strategic move by Google to ensure that users on older Wear OS devices benefit from the advancements and capabilities offered by the newer iterations of the platform.
