Google’s latest attempt at a smartwatch has given Apple something to worry about, but not only is the price attractive, because new Wear OS devices like the Pixel Watch may soon be more capable than first thought.
According to the rumors I noticed 9To5Google (Opens in a new tab)the tech giant is said to be working on redesigned Gmail and calendar apps that could make their way to Wear OS.
So far, neither of the two apps is available on the wrists of Google fans, which 9To5Google She suggests that it may be due to the company’s “reliance” on rich notifications that allow users to interact with content without fully opening the app, which is easier to see on a smartphone’s larger screen.
Gmail for Pixel Watch
The Pixel Watch currently ships with the Agenda app, which shows a three-day view of upcoming events but lacks the ability to create new entries (besides using the built-in Google Assistant).
And while there’s no dedicated Gmail app, users can still receive push notifications from their connected smartphone, as they can with an Apple Watch when the watchOS app isn’t available.
So far, this has worked fine for checking inboxes, but sending a short reply requires a connected Android phone.
9To5Google He notes that he’s “learned that Google is testing both Gmail and Calendar for Wear OS,” an experience that promises to be “complete,” suggesting customization Google Workspace Apps with better interactivity, such as the ability to create new events or emails, though we’ll have to wait and see what comes along.
In contrast, all versions of watchOS for the Apple Watch included versions of the dedicated Mail and Calendar apps, which received incremental updates along with related iOS updates.
For now, some Pixel Watch users may find it more useful to use a dedicated Outlook Wear OS app for their email services rather than just receiving notifications from their phone’s Gmail app on their wrist.