Google’s next steps for Wear OS include offline Maps navigation and a Play Store redesign
Samsung just unveiled thenew Galaxy Z-series foldablesand theGalaxy Watch 5at its latest Unpacked event. Besides announcing all this new hardware, we also got to learn a little about the software powering these devices. That includes not just what they’ll ship with, but features currently in development — and Google was happy to lend a hand, talking about its plans to bring offline Maps navigation and a redesigned Play Store to Wear OS.
Samsung’s newGalaxy Watch 5 and 5 Proarrive running the newOne UI Watch 4.5skin on top of Wear OS 3.5. Although Samsung does a lot in trying to enhance the experience on its own devices, the Play Store on its watches is as rudimentary as on any, featuring drab text labels for navigation. But that won’t be the case for long, and Google shares that the experience on your smartwatch is getting a makeover sometime later this year, replete with sections for trending apps and custom recommendations (via9to5 Google). We’re also expecting a graphical overhaul, with colorful new menu items adding some liveliness to the UI.
Google’s Play Store user interface showcase on Wear OS during Galaxy Unpacked 2022
The other big news is theGoogle Mapsnavigationexperience on Wear OSpicking up the ability to operate without an active connection to your phone. That sounds fantastic for times you’d rather leave your phone at home, but are still interested in exploring new areas. Like the enhanced Play Store, this functionality should be arriving sometime later in 2022. it’s possible to watch Google’s segment at Galaxy Unpacked below:
Finally, Wear OS should be getting some new media options, with support for SoundCloud and Deezer set to arrive sometime later this year — complete with offline support. While this news all arrives as part of Samsung’s latest launches, the upcoming improvements should make Wear OS better for everyone with compatible watches — not just for Samsung and its customers.
The note-taking app I should have used all along
Broader branding hints at wider paid-tier ambitions
New tablets coming September 4
Tablets and accessories are also on sale
One UI is expanding to Samsung’s home appliances
What’s new? A lot
