Exploring Wear OS 5 Developer Preview reveals upcoming features anticipated in future smartwatches, potentially including the Google Pixel Watch 3, set for an August debut.
The preview highlights two standout additions: UWB (Ultra-Wideband) and Bluetooth LE Audio. UWB, previously mentioned in reports, could facilitate secure phone unlocking and precise location tracking between the watch and phone, contingent on UWB support in the paired phone.
Meanwhile, Bluetooth LE Audio represents a significant advancement not typically seen in smartwatches. Expected to debut with the Pixel Watch 3, this protocol conserves battery while supporting audio streaming to connected headphones. It’s optimized for IoT devices, crucial for maintaining efficiency in wearables with limited battery capacity.
While smartwatches haven’t yet implemented Bluetooth LE Audio, its potential to connect to multiple devices simultaneously will enhance the user experience, particularly for music enthusiasts on the move.
As we await these innovations in smartwatch technology, Bluetooth LE Audio-enabled headphones already pave the way for broader device compatibility in the near future.
