Skip to main content

How Do I Install Apps on WearOS 5?

WearOS 5 supports three main methods for installing apps: direct installation on watch, phone-to-watch deployment, and web-based remote installation. Each method has advantages depending on your setup.


Direct Watch Installation

Install apps directly from your watch's Play Store.

  • Play Store Access: Open the Play Store app directly on your watch.

  • Voice Search: Use Hey Google, install [app name] voice commands.

  • Browse Categories: Navigate through featured apps, games, and productivity tools.

  • One-Tap Install: Tap "Install" and apps download directly to watch storage.


Phone-to-Watch Installation

Push apps from your phone to your watch through the companion app.

  • Companion App Method: Install compatible apps on phone, then push to watch through Wear OS app.

  • Automatic Sync: Many apps automatically install watch versions when phone versions are installed.

  • Manual Selection: Use companion app to manually select which phone apps to install on watch.

  • Batch Installation: Install multiple apps simultaneously through companion app interface.


Web-Based Remote Installation

Install apps from any browser using Google Play on the web.

  • Google Play Web: Visit play.google.com on computer or phone browser.

  • Device Selection: Choose your watch from device list when installing apps.

  • Remote Deployment: Apps install automatically on watch when connected to internet.

  • Purchase Management: Buy paid apps through web interface and install remotely.


App Categories Available

  • Productivity: Gmail, Calendar, Keep, Todoist, and other productivity apps.

  • Fitness: Strava, Nike Run Club, Adidas Running, and specialized workout apps.

  • Entertainment: Spotify, YouTube Music, Podcasts, and media control apps.

  • Utilities: Calculator, Timer, Weather, and system utility applications.


Installation Troubleshooting

  • Storage Space: Ensure sufficient storage (typically 100MB+ free) before installing apps. Check Settings Storage.

  • Network Connection: Verify strong WiFi connection during app downloads.

  • Account Issues: Ensure Google account is properly signed in on both devices.

  • Compatibility: Check app compatibility with your specific watch model on the store page.


App Management

Uninstall Apps

Long-press app icons or use Settings Apps to remove unused applications.

Update Apps

Apps update automatically or manually through Play Store My apps Update all.

Storage Monitoring

Check Settings Storage to monitor app storage usage.

Permission Management

Configure app permissions through Settings Apps Select app Permissions.


See Also: App Compatibility Issues|Performance Optimization|WearOS 5 New Features