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What's the Difference Between WearOS Versions?

WearOS has evolved significantly through each major version, with improvements in performance, features, and battery life. Understanding version differences helps you know what your watch can do and what features to expect from updates.


WearOS 6 (2025)

The newest version bringing AI integration and refined design.

  • Material 3 Expressive: Circular-optimized interface with dynamic color theming that matches your watch band or personal style preferences.

  • Gemini AI Integration: Gemini replaces Google Assistant as the default AI assistant, offering more conversational and context-aware interactions.

  • Battery Improvements: Up to 10% better power efficiency through optimized system processes and display management.

  • Watch Face Format v4: Enhanced watch faces with richer animations, more complications, and interactive elements.

  • Device Support: Galaxy Watch 8 series, Pixel Watch 3, with limited rollout to other compatible models.


WearOS 5 (2024)

Major update focusing on fitness and performance.

  • Grid App Launcher: Visual app grid view alongside the traditional scrolling list, making app discovery easier.

  • Advanced Running Metrics: Ground contact time, stride length, and vertical oscillation for serious runners.

  • Watch Face Format 2.0: Better complication support and more customization options for watch face developers.

  • Performance Optimization: 20% better battery life during activities through more efficient sensor usage.

  • Device Support: Galaxy Watch 7/Ultra, Pixel Watch 3, updates available for Galaxy Watch 4/5/6.


WearOS 4 (2023)

Unified platform with deeper Google integration.

  • Google Services Integration: Deep integration with Gmail, Calendar, Maps, and other Google apps.

  • Unified Platform: Consolidation of previous WearOS fragmentation for more consistent experience across devices.

  • Enhanced Security: Improved app sandboxing and privacy controls for better data protection.

  • Better Performance: Optimized system performance with faster app loading and smoother animations.

  • Device Support: Galaxy Watch 4/5/6 series, limited third-party support.


WearOS 3 (2021-2022)

The Samsung partnership that transformed the platform.

  • Samsung Partnership: Joint development combining WearOS strengths with Samsung's Tizen benefits.

  • Hybrid Platform: New architecture providing better performance and battery life than previous WearOS versions.

  • App Ecosystem: Expanded Google Play Store availability with more watch-optimized apps.

  • Health Platform: Integration with both Samsung Health and Google Fit for comprehensive health tracking.

  • Device Support: Primarily Galaxy Watch 4 series and select third-party models.


Legacy WearOS (Pre-2021)

Earlier versions with limited ongoing support.

  • Basic Functionality: Simpler smartwatch features with a smaller app ecosystem than current versions.

  • Performance Limitations: Slower performance and shorter battery life compared to modern WearOS.

  • Limited Updates: Most legacy devices no longer receive feature updates, only occasional security patches.

  • Device Support: Fossil, TicWatch, and early WearOS devices, mostly discontinued.


Checking Your Version

Find out which WearOS version your watch runs.

  • Settings Method: Open Settings System About on your watch and look for Wear OS version.

  • Samsung Watches: May display One UI Watch version. One UI Watch 6 corresponds to WearOS 5, for example.

  • Companion App: Check version information in your phone's WearOS or manufacturer companion app.


Update Availability

Updates depend on your device and manufacturer.

  • Manufacturer Dependent: Update availability and timing varies by manufacturer. Samsung and Google typically provide fastest updates.

  • Hardware Limitations: Older watches may not support newer WearOS versions due to processor or memory constraints.

  • Check for Updates: Navigate to Settings System System update to check for available updates.


See Also: WearOS Cross-Manufacturer Compatibility|WearOS Version Migration Guide|What is WearOS