The deep dive into the Wear OS 5 Developer Preview has unveiled exciting features to enhance future smartwatches, particularly the anticipated Google Pixel Watch 3, which is expected to be announced in August.
Key Features: UWB and Bluetooth LE Audio
Ultra-Wideband (UWB):
- Reports suggest that UWB connectivity, a highly anticipated feature, may debut with the Pixel Watch 3.
- UWB would enable secure phone unlocking and precise location tracking for both the watch and the phone, provided the phone also supports UWB.
Bluetooth LE Audio:
- The Pixel Watch 3 might pioneer Bluetooth LE Audio in smartwatches.
- This technology, originally for IoT devices, offers a Bluetooth connection with minimal battery drain, which is essential for wearables with small batteries.
- Unlike traditional Bluetooth LE, which can’t transmit audio, Bluetooth LE allows for music streaming and connecting multiple devices simultaneously, significantly benefiting users who stream music on the go by conserving battery life.
Despite the lack of current smartwatches supporting Bluetooth LE Audio, several earbuds and headphones already use this protocol. The smartwatch industry eagerly awaits devices that can leverage these advancements.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Google Pixel Watch 3 and other Wear OS advancements.
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