Skip to main content

WearOS Version Migration Guide

Upgrading your WearOS watch to a new version can be a complex process. Here’s what you need to know.

Critical Migration Requirements

  • Factory Reset Required: You will need to factory reset your watch to upgrade, which will erase all of your data and settings.
  • Irreversible Process: You cannot downgrade back to a previous version of WearOS after upgrading.
  • App Changes: You will need to uninstall the WearOS by Google app and install the manufacturer-specific app for your watch.

Hardware Limitations

  • Processor Requirement: WearOS 3.0 is only available on devices with a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100+ processor or newer.
  • Limited Device Support: Only select existing devices can upgrade to newer versions of WearOS.

iOS Compatibility Changes

  • Reduced Functionality: WearOS 3 devices lose Google Wallet and Google Maps when paired with an iPhone.
  • Feature Limitations: Messages by Google is not available with an iOS pairing.
  • Assistant Restrictions: Google Assistant is only supported on the Samsung Galaxy Watch4 and Watch5.

User-Reported Migration Issues

  • Connectivity Problems: Some users have reported significant Bluetooth and sync issues after upgrading.
  • App Compatibility: Some apps, like Google Music and Maps, may stop working after an update.
  • Performance Issues: Some users have reported that their watches have become "kinda useless" after an update.