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Will My Current Apps Work with WearOS 6?

Most existing WearOS apps continue working on WearOS 6, though some may require updates to access new features or maintain optimal performance. Google prioritizes backward compatibility.


Apps That Work

  • System Apps: Gmail, Calendar, Messages, Google Pay, and other Google apps receive automatic updates for full compatibility.

  • Popular Third-Party: Spotify, Strava, Nike Run Club, WhatsApp, and major apps have WearOS 6 support.

  • Watch Faces: Existing watch faces function normally, though they may not support new Material 3 features until updated.

  • Fitness Apps: Health tracking apps maintain core functionality with potential feature enhancements after updates.


Apps Requiring Updates

  • UI-Heavy Apps: Apps with complex interfaces benefit most from Material 3 design updates for visual consistency.

  • AI-Integrated Apps: Apps wanting Gemini AI integration need developer updates to access the new capabilities.

  • Custom Watch Faces: Advanced watch faces may need updates for Watch Face Format v4 features like animations.

  • Communication Apps: Messaging apps may need updates for enhanced notification handling in WearOS 6.


Potential Issues

  • Performance: Older apps may run slower on WearOS 6 without optimization updates from developers.

  • Visual Problems: Some apps may have minor display issues with new interface elements until updated.

  • Feature Limitations: Apps can't access new WearOS 6 capabilities without developer updates.

  • Legacy Apps: Very old or abandoned apps may stop working properly and display compatibility notices.


See Also: What's New in WearOS 6|Installation Guide|Performance Troubleshooting