In summary
- Wear OS 6 update now available
- Pixel Watch 2 and 3 eligible for update
- Material 3 Expressive UI design included
- Google Maps auto-launch feature introduced
Google has officially released the Wear OS 6 update for older Pixel watches, coinciding with the launch of the Pixel Watch 4. Our tech expert, Chris Martin, has been testing out the new smartwatch and shares his initial impressions. If you own a Pixel Watch 2 or 3, updating your device might give you a similar experience to the latest model.
The Wear OS 6 update is now live for Pixel Watch devices, with the Pixel Watch 4 hitting stores today. Only Pixel Watch 2 and 3 owners will be able to enjoy the new features, including the Material 3 Expressive UI design and Google Maps auto-launch functionality.
Not everyone benefits
Google has confirmed that Wear OS 6 will be available for all eligible Pixel Watch devices starting today. However, it seems that only Pixel Watch 2 and 3 users will receive the update, leaving out the original Pixel Watch from 2022.
Despite expectations, the original Pixel Watch won’t be getting the Wear OS 6 update, even though it was supposed to be supported until October 2025.
Chris Martin / Foundry
What does Watch OS 6 bring?
The Wear OS 6 update introduces Google’s latest Material 3 Expressive UI design, offering Pixel Watch 2 and 3 users larger buttons, rounded fonts, and dynamic color theming. Additionally, the new auto-launch feature for Google Maps and the ability to add time to an active Safety Check are included in this update.
To update your Pixel Watch 2 or 3 to Wear OS 6, navigate to Settings > System > System updates and follow the prompts.
