Gemini has come to Wear OS: How a new AI assistant is changing the smartwatch experience

Gemini replaces Google Assistant on watches running Wear OS 4 and above, offering a smarter, more contextual assistant for everyday tasks.

Google is expanding the capabilities of its AI assistant Gemini, which now works not only on smartphones but also on smartwatches. Since the beginning of the year, Gemini has been gradually replacing Google Assistant on devices running Wear OS 4 and newer, including the Pixel Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 8, and OnePlus Watch 3. The update makes the watch more functional with a conversational interface, contextual understanding, and deep access to Google services.

Smarter than the usual voice commands

Gemini on Wear OS isn’t just a name change. Google has redesigned the assistant to be able to perform tasks beyond basic commands. Instead of simple requests like timer or call, you can ask the assistant to summarize your last email, create a playlist for a run, or remember a parking spot.The assistant uses the same models found on smartphones, so it understands clarifying questions, interprets intent correctly, and relies on data from Gmail, Calendar, and other services.

Gemini uses the same models found on smartphones, so it understands clarifying questions, interprets intent, and relies on data from Gmail, Calendar, and other services.

Fewer actions, more results

Gemini reduces the number of steps needed to accomplish everyday tasks. During a run, you can dictate a message, set a reminder, or request a route. You can call the assistant by key phrase, tapping an icon or holding the side button. The Raise to Talk gesture works on some models.This takes the watch from being just a notification screen to a full-fledged tool for quick interaction without a smartphone.

Integration with Google services and watch apps

Assistant accesses account data: emails, calendar, correspondence, and places from messages. When upgrading to Wear OS 6, the functionality is enhanced by the App Functions API, which allows Gemini to interact with branded apps from different brands.On Samsung devices, this can enhance Samsung Health or calendar, while on Pixel it can improve access to Recorder or weather services.

Useful little features

Gemini is capable of remembering short pieces of information – a locker number, a cafe order, or the location of items left behind. Reminders can take geolocation into account: when you leave work, the assistant will remind you to shop.Gemini can also launch compatible apps to track your heart rate or workouts and control Google Home devices, from lights to hands-free messaging.

Gemini can also run compatible apps to track your heart rate or workouts and control Google Home devices, from lights to hands-free messaging.