Gemini on Wear OS: What the New Update Means for Your Smartwatch
Google is now rolling out the Gemini on Wear OS update more broadly, bringing its next-gen AI assistant to more users directly on their smartwatches. This update replaces Google Assistant and introduces a refreshed experience powered by generative AI. If you've been wondering what this change means for your wearable device, how to activate Gemini, or what new features to expect, we’ve got you covered. The new Gemini assistant can now be launched through familiar methods like “Hey Google,” the side button, a Tile, or a watch face complication—though the icon and label might appear a bit different than you’d expect. Here’s everything you need to know about using Gemini on Wear OS, what’s changed, and how it compares to the experience you were used to with Google Assistant.
How to Install and Use Gemini on Wear OS
The Gemini on Wear OS update is available via the Google Play Store. To check if the update is live on your device, simply go to the Play Store on your smartwatch, scroll to “Manage apps,” and look for an update labeled “Google Gemini on Wear OS.” After installing, you’ll get a prompt saying “Gemini is now on your watch.” Notably, this means that Google Assistant will no longer be accessible, as Gemini takes over all voice assistant duties on the device.
You can activate Gemini the same way you would use Google Assistant: by saying “Hey Google,” long-pressing the side button, tapping the Gemini app icon, or using a Tile or watch face complication. Interestingly, in some lists the assistant is still labeled “Google” or “Google Digital Assistant,” but tapping it will open the updated Gemini interface. The new assistant displays a sparkling icon and launches with a subtle animation. Gemini brings a fresh UI that leans into Google’s Material You design, providing a modern and expressive look tailored for round screens.
What’s New with Gemini on Wear OS
Gemini introduces several changes in both visual style and functionality. The Gemini Tile now features a curved microphone button that aligns with the bottom edge of your smartwatch screen. This layout follows Google’s Material 3 Expressive design principles and modernizes the voice assistant interface on Wear OS. Once launched, the Gemini screen displays a soft blue-purple glow and a central splash screen animation before transitioning to the “Ask Gemini” screen.
When you ask Gemini a question, there’s a short “Connecting…” screen while it generates a response. Unlike Google Assistant, Gemini can provide answers in both text and visual form, which may include helpful images right on your wrist. You’ll also see a thumbs up/down rating option and a microphone button for follow-up queries. Like on smartphones, Google includes a small advisory that says, “Gemini can make mistakes, so double-check it,” reminding users of the AI’s limitations. Still, the inclusion of image-based replies marks a major leap for smartwatches, enhancing usability without needing to check your phone.
Why Google Replaced Assistant with Gemini on Wear OS
The shift from Google Assistant to Gemini on Wear OS reflects a broader strategy to unify AI capabilities across all Google devices. Gemini leverages the same generative AI technology used in Google’s flagship mobile experiences, enabling deeper context understanding, multimodal responses, and smarter follow-ups. For users, this means more natural conversations and relevant answers—plus a consistent experience whether you're using your phone, tablet, or smartwatch.
While some users may miss certain Assistant-specific features, Gemini aims to evolve beyond them with generative smarts. It’s designed to be more conversational, more capable, and better integrated into your daily tasks. Early reactions have noted that the performance is still improving, and some UI elements—like the color scheme—haven’t been fully updated yet. However, the broader rollout signals Google’s commitment to making Gemini the go-to assistant across all platforms, including wearables.
Is Gemini on Wear OS Worth It?
For most users, the transition to Gemini on Wear OS brings more benefits than drawbacks. The assistant is smarter, more visually appealing, and more flexible than Google Assistant, especially when it comes to interpreting complex questions and generating informative answers. Though a few legacy features might be missing, Google is actively evolving the Gemini platform—and the smartwatch experience is no exception. As AI assistants become more central to how we interact with our devices, Gemini represents a forward-looking shift that makes your wearable more helpful and responsive in real time.
If you haven’t received the update yet, keep checking your Play Store or ensure your smartwatch is running the latest version of Wear OS. Once installed, give Gemini a try—you may find the future of wrist-based AI is already here.
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