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:
GeminireplacesGoogle Assistantas 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 8series,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 forGalaxy 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
WearOSfragmentation 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 4/5/6series, limited third-party support.
WearOS 3 (2021-2022)
The Samsung partnership that transformed the platform.
-
Samsung Partnership: Joint development combining
WearOSstrengths with Samsung'sTizenbenefits. -
Hybrid Platform: New architecture providing better performance and battery life than previous
WearOSversions. -
App Ecosystem: Expanded
Google Play Storeavailability with more watch-optimized apps. -
Health Platform: Integration with both
Samsung HealthandGoogle Fitfor comprehensive health tracking. -
Device Support: Primarily
Galaxy Watch 4series 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 earlyWearOSdevices, mostly discontinued.
Checking Your Version
Find out which WearOS version your watch runs.
-
Settings Method: Open
SettingsSystemAbouton your watch and look forWear OS version. -
Samsung Watches: May display
One UI Watchversion.One UI Watch 6corresponds toWearOS 5, for example. -
Companion App: Check version information in your phone's
WearOSor 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
WearOSversions due to processor or memory constraints. -
Check for Updates: Navigate to
SettingsSystemSystem updateto check for available updates.
Version Impact
Newer WearOS versions offer significantly better performance and battery life. If your watch supports an update, installing it typically improves the overall experience.
See Also: WearOS Cross-Manufacturer Compatibility|WearOS Version Migration Guide|What is WearOS