Google has previewed Wear OS 7, the next version of its smartwatch operating system, during I/O 2026. The update focuses on more glanceable information, tighter media controls and new developer paths for connecting apps with Gemini Intelligence.
The release is not just a cosmetic update. Google is using Wear OS 7 to move beyond the long-running tile system that has shaped much of the Wear OS experience. It is also bringing over Android-style Live Updates and expanding the tools developers can use to make watch apps respond to assistant-driven actions.
Wear Widgets replace older glanceable surfaces
One of the main changes is Wear Widgets, a new system for showing compact, glanceable information on the watch. Google describes the feature as an evolution of Wear OS tiles, with more flexibility for developers and a closer relationship to the kinds of widgets users already see on phones.
The company has also tied the system to its AI-powered Create My Widget tool. That means widgets created through Google’s phone-side AI tooling may also be able to appear on Wear OS watches, though the practical limits will depend on developer support and compatible devices.
Live Updates and media controls come to the wrist
Wear OS 7 will also support Live Updates, Google’s real-time status system for things like active trips, deliveries or workouts. On watches, that should make time-sensitive information easier to check without opening a full app.
Google is adding a default workout tracker with built-in media controls that can work across wearable fitness apps. The update also includes controls for which apps can automatically open the Wear OS media controls interface, plus a Remote Output Switcher for moving audio playback between headphones, speakers and other available devices.
Gemini support depends on developers and devices
Wear OS 7 also includes APIs meant to connect apps with Gemini Intelligence. Google says developers will be able to use tools such as AppFunctions to expose app features to Gemini, making it possible for supported tasks to be started from the wrist.
That could eventually allow more complex actions, such as triggering an app workflow by voice, but the experience will depend on how developers implement the APIs and which watches support the new Gemini features.
Google says Wear OS 7 is expected to arrive later this year. Developers can start testing now through the Wear OS 7 Canary Emulator.