Google Wear OS 7 unveiled with widgets, live updates and longer battery life
At its Google I/O 2026 conference, Google just unveiled Wear OS 7, the latest version of its smartwatch operating system based on Android 17. The update introduces several new features, including widgets, live updates, and Gemini Intelligence on select smartwatches. Google also claimed that the new version can offer up to 10 percent longer battery life for smartwatches updated from Wear OS 6.
Wear OS 7 introduces widgets that Google says are flexible and dynamic. These widgets will be available in 2×1 and 2×2 layouts, similar to the widget formats on Android smartphones. The update also brings live updates to smartwatches, allowing apps to display real-time information at a glance.
Google is also improving system media controls. The new version offers features for automatically starting media per app, as well as seamless audio output via the Remote Output Switcher.
Google Wear OS 7 with new Wear Workout Tracker
In addition, Wear OS 7 includes a new Wear Workout Tracker, which offers a standardized workout tracking experience, as well as support for the Watch Face Format v5.
Google is also integrating Gemini Intelligence into select smartwatches launching later this year, enabling more advanced, interactive features. Wear OS 7 introduces a new App Functions API that allows developers to connect apps to AI assistants like Gemini.
The company has also confirmed that task automation will be introduced to smartwatches with OS 7. For example, users will be able to perform actions such as placing an order with DoorDash using voice commands.
Developers can test Google’s new smartwatch software using the Canary emulator. The stable version will be released later this year.
