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.