Google is rolling out the June 2026 Wear OS 7 update, based on Android 17, to the Pixel Watch 4, 3, and 2. The update brings several functional enhancements and design changes aimed at improving usability and safety across the devices.
Key updates include:
- Enhanced Raise to Talk accuracy for the Pixel Watch 4 via an improved gesture model.
- Remote Media Routing to manage audio and video output from a paired Android phone.
- Integration of Emergency Sharing with Fall Detection, Car Crash detection, and Loss of Pulse monitoring.
- Updated Wear Contacts layouts featuring Material 3 design elements such as larger photos and quick action buttons.
- Revised crown interactions while the Always-on Display is active to allow for faster access to the app drawer or notifications.
- New system additions including a Mobile Networks tile in Quick Settings, media controls in the notification feed, and updated toggles and sliders.
Key updates include:
- Enhanced Raise to Talk accuracy for the Pixel Watch 4 via an improved gesture model.
- Remote Media Routing to manage audio and video output from a paired Android phone.
- Integration of Emergency Sharing with Fall Detection, Car Crash detection, and Loss of Pulse monitoring.
- Updated Wear Contacts layouts featuring Material 3 design elements such as larger photos and quick action buttons.
- Revised crown interactions while the Always-on Display is active to allow for faster access to the app drawer or notifications.
- New system additions including a Mobile Networks tile in Quick Settings, media controls in the notification feed, and updated toggles and sliders.
AsteroidOS 2.0, a Linux-based open-source smartwatch operating system, has been released with features like always-on display, heart rate monitoring, and support for approximately 30 devices. It aims to provide a privacy-focused and environmentally responsible alternative for smartwatches.
Core Devices is introducing two new watches that closely follow the original Pebble DNA, the Pebble 2 Duo and Pebble Time 2. These smartwatches feature long battery life, e-paper screens, and run open-source PebbleOS.
The long-awaited Pebble Time 2 is relaunching as the Core Time 2, featuring a 1.5-inch color e-paper display, metal frame, heart rate monitor, and a significant upgrade with a touchscreen. It will be available for pre-order at $229 with a 30-day battery life and is set to ship in December 2025.
Glowtape is a unique DIY wristwatch by Henner Zeller that uses glow-in-the-dark tape and an RP2040 microcontroller to display the time.
Watchy is an open source E-Ink Smartwatch with an MIT license. Development resources and documentation can be found on the official website watchy.sqfmi.com. There are also several retailers selling the watch hardware. See the documentation for instructions on how to get started with developing for Watchy.
