14 DAY TRIAL // Google has finally brought the Wear OS up to speed with Android P by launching the developer preview for the new version.
People have been wondering if Google was going to make any significant improvements to Wear OS, besides changing the name from Android Wear. Well, it turns out that Google had a developer preview in the pipeline, and now users can download and test it.
As it stands right now, the images released by Google are only for the official Android Emulator, and for Huawei Watch 2 Bluetooth or Huawei Watch 2 Classic Bluetooth. It’s important to mention that it’s not something for everyday use, and it’s aimed at developers, although there is nothing to stop regular users from getting it as well.
What’s new in Wear OS Developer Preview
First of all, Google decided to go for a UI theme with a much darker background, which in turn should turn up the contrast and visibility. It’s the theme, and users should be able to check out wear apps at a glance, with ease.
The second part is the most important one as it deals with various measures to conserve battery life. Google decided to take some decisive actions, including limiting the background activity of apps. This means that apps will no longer be allowed to run in the background unless the watch is connected to a charger.
Of course, there are some exceptions to this new rule that includes watch faces and complications. It’s also necessary to mention that it’s a feature that’s going to roll out gradually, so not everyone will be able to use it from the start.
Also, all radios (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GSM) will be turned out when the watch is not on the hand. It makes a lot of sense if you think about it, and it should significantly improve the battery life. And, to top it all off, when the Bluetooth is disconnected, the Wi-Fi will disconnect as well. The only exceptions are when an app needs high bandwidth or when the watch is connected to a charger.
You can check out the extended release notes and download the images.