Wear OS 5.1 Brings Fresh Features and Enhancements to Pixel Watch

Wear OS 5.1 Update for Pixel Watch

Wear OS 5.1 is now rolling out to the Pixel Watch 2 and 3 (Wi-Fi) models, based on Android 15. This update introduces several new features and improvements:

• Credential Manager Support: For app developers, this API provides a unified authentication solution, supporting various sign-in methods like passwords, passkeys, and federated identity.
• Watch Speaker Playback: Users can now select the watch speaker as their preferred media output option if apps support it.
• Force Global AOD Experience: A new Developer option allows skipping the blurred clock in apps when the wrist is down.
• Active Watch Face Tweak: The Active face on the Pixel Watch 3 has been updated, with the time now displayed in a pill-shaped container instead of being hollowed out during Always-On Display (AOD).
• New Accent Color: The default yellow accent color is being replaced with a grayish hue, possibly hinting at future Dynamic Color support or user-customizable themes.
• Consolidated Modes in Settings: Do Not Disturb, Bedtime, and Theater modes are now grouped under a new 'Modes' menu.
• Auto Bedtime Mode: Introduced on the Pixel Watch 3 and now available for the Pixel Watch 2.
• Loss of Pulse Detection: Expected later this month for the Pixel Watch 3.
• Menstrual Tracking: New feature for logging periods, viewing cycle status, and predicting the next period on the Pixel Watch 3.
• Improved Step Tracking Algorithm: Enhanced accuracy for activities like jogging with a stroller, pushing a shopping cart, or hiking with poles.
• Media Controls Upgrade: Improved controls for audio content based on the type of media being played, such as podcasts within YouTube Music.

Google plans to release the next Pixel Watch update in June, continuing its quarterly update schedule.