The wearable technology industry is heating up, with smart watches being created and pushed by bigger companies like Samsung, and Google showing off its Glass eyewear device. The technology giant also wants to get into the smart watch market, despite not seeing too much success with its own hardware this far, and have announced a version of Android made for wrist devices.
Google's new smart watch software is called Android Wear, and it runs a version of the operating system made specifically for use in wearable technology. Like Samsung's Galaxy Gear line, Google said in a blog post that the software will focus largely on health and fitness monitoring, as well as remotely controlling other devices.
Google has worked closely with LG to create one of the first devices that will use Android Wear, and is also collaborating with Asus, HTC, Motorola, and Samsung to develop smart watches running its new software.
Google wants users to be able to speak to the watch with voice commands, similar to how one would control Google Glass, which is not on the market yet. LG explained that after you say, "OK Google," you can speak a voice command and the screen will provide you with information.
As previously stated, Google hasn't seen much success with its own hardware. The popular Nexus smartphones are developed by LG, Samsung and Asus, and Google Glass isn't for sale yet but is already derided by many outside of enthusiast circles. Chromebook laptops, also not entirely developed by Google, have seen moderate success.
Google seems determined to make it in the space with or without manufacturing partners however, as this smart watch endeavor and pursuit of Nest would tell us. Stay tuned for more news on smart watches running Android Wear to see how they fare in the coming months.
Source: The New York Times
