Google Maps on Wear OS has been a useful application. It offers step-by-step directions right on your wrist, providing Google Map Auto-Launch. There has always been that one minor irritant that you have to press the button once more on your smartwatch.
Google is implementing a quality-of-life update that is just amazing: Google Maps on Wear OS now opens when you start navigation on your connected smartphone. Such a smooth fusion makes the navigation process a pure pleasure.
History of Wear OS Navigation
Previously, Google Maps on your phone was showing you the way. However, your Wear OS smartwatch was only giving you turn notifications.
The entire map and the entire navigation system on the watch remained inactive until you opened it. This involved disorganizing your watch whilst driving, cycling, or walking.
The Auto-launch Game-Changing Feature
The new motor vehicle auto-launch feature eliminates this additional process. Here’s how it works:
Open directions with Google Maps just like on an Android phone.
Google Maps will automatically open on your connected Wear OS smartwatch almost instantly.
You can use the watch to see the entire navigation screen, with map view, next turn, and approximate arrival time, without you even having to touch the watch.
You can always have a consistent and enjoyable experience, no matter what form of transportation you use.
Why This is a Big Quality-of-Life Change
Such an apparently minor update has a radical impact on the user experience:
When your phone is in a car holder, in your pocket, or on your bike, your wrist is the primary navigation display. You will no longer have to look at your phone now and then or use your watch manually.
You just need to glance at your wrist, and this is much safer and more convenient. Your smartphone and smartwatch are now one unified navigation experience rather than two distinct products.
Availability and Rollout
Auto-launch of Google Maps on Wear OS is rolling out. It seems to be some kind of server-side update, so you may not necessarily have to actually download a particular update to an app.
Wear OS devices that can integrate with Android smartphones and are compatible with the preview version software Wear OS 3.0 or above should begin activating the feature within days and weeks.
Conclusion
The new auto-launch ability of Google Maps on Wear OS is an ideal illustration of how considerate integration can bring the user experience to a higher level.
The wrist watch has made navigating the world a better, safer, and enjoyable experience by removing a minor pain point and automatically presenting you with the information needed to get where you have to be.
This feature adds to the worth of Wear OS as a formidable extension of your smartphone. It clearly shows that sometimes the best features are those that you do not even need to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a new auto-launch on Google Maps on Wear OS?
It also opens Google Maps automatically on your Wear OS smartwatch when you begin navigation on your Android smartphone. You do not have to start it up manually anymore.
How does this feature work?
When you begin navigation on your phone, the Google Maps on your watch will automatically open and display the map, the next turns, and ETA.
What are the modes of navigation supported?
It supports all enabled modes: driving, cycling, and walking directions.
Why is this such a big improvement?
It gives it an extremely hands-free feel, reduces distractions, and makes traveling less dangerous and more comfortable.
Do I have to update Google Maps or Wear OS?
The feature is being released through a server-side update.
What smartwatches work?
It should be supported in the majority of modern Wear OS devices, and it is prioritized in devices that can run Wear OS 3 or later.
Do I continue to need a phone as a means of navigation?
Yes. The phone does all the routing, and the watch provides a hands-free screen to check in on.
What will become of me after I turn off the phone navigation?
Your watch navigation session will also be terminated to keep the experience clean and smooth.
