Pixel Watch November 2024 update and Wear OS 5 rollout details
Google Resumes Wear OS 5 Updates for Pixel Watches
After pausing the Wear OS 5 rollout in September due to issues, Google is now releasing the latest update for Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3 as part of the November 2024 security patch. This update brings much-needed stability improvements and bug fixes across all three models.
Update Details and Rollout
The new update is based on Wear OS 5 and has the build number AW2A.241105.012 for all six global models. However, there are some differences for users in France:
- For Orange LTE models in France: The build number is AW2A.241105.013.
- For all other models in France: The build number remains AW2A.241105.012.
The Pixel Watch series is expected to show the “November 5, 2024” security patch level after the update.
Rollout Plan
Starting today, the rollout will be done in phases, depending on the carrier and device. Users of the original Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 will start receiving the Wear OS 5 upgrade, which was halted earlier. Google plans to gradually extend the update to all devices over the next week.
What’s New in the November 2024 Update?
The update focuses on enhancing device security, fixing known bugs, and improving overall performance. Here is a detailed changelog for each device:
Pixel Watch 3:
- Security Updates: Includes the latest Android security patches for better protection.
- Bug Fixes: Addresses several stability issues, including:
- Resolving the rare occurrence of a white splash screen when navigating to the watch face by pressing the Crown.
- Fixing Bluetooth connection issues that led to connection drops.
- Correcting the display of old, completed calls, which were still showing as active.
Pixel Watch 1 & Pixel Watch 2:
- Wear OS 5 Upgrade: The software update includes an upgrade to the new Wear OS 5, bringing:
- Improved performance and stability.
- Enhanced camera controls via the Play Store update.
- Upgraded Pixel Recorder for better voice recording and playback features.
- Bug Fixes:
- Fixed an issue where the watch face wouldn’t load upon reboot.
- Addressed the problem where a white splash screen would appear when pressing the Crown.
How to Install the Update
To check for the update manually, go to Settings > System > System updates on your Pixel Watch. If it shows “Your watch is up to date,” tap that message multiple times to trigger the update download. You can also speed up the process by going to Connectivity preferences and temporarily disabling Bluetooth, forcing the watch to use Wi-Fi for faster download.
For users who prefer manual updates, Over-The-Air (OTA) images are available for download on Google’s official Pixel Watch support page.
Wear OS 5 Rollout Resumes
The Wear OS 5 update was initially pulled back in September due to reported issues, including a “soft brick” problem. However, Google has now resumed the updates with stability enhancements and fixes for all three Pixel Watch models. This November update marks the resumption of Wear OS 5 upgrades, providing users with new features and improvements.
Verizon’s Changelog Details
Verizon has also shared specific details about the November 2024 update for Pixel Watch models, highlighting the following improvements:
- Security Enhancements: Latest Android security patches have been applied.
- Performance Improvements: General stability and performance have been enhanced across all models.
- Bug Fixes:
- Resolved a rare issue where a white splash screen would appear when pressing the Crown.
- Fixed Bluetooth connectivity problems where the connection would drop unexpectedly.
- Addressed an issue where completed calls were still displayed as active.
No October Update Due to Previous Issues
There was no update released in October 2024 because of a reported “soft brick” issue with Wear OS 5 on Pixel Watch devices. This problem caused the watches to become unresponsive, prompting Google to pause the update rollout. With this latest November patch, Google seems to have resolved the major issues and resumed the updates.
How to Access the Update
To ensure a smooth update experience, users are advised to:
- Check for updates manually via Settings > System > System updates.
- If the update is not available immediately, try forcing the update by tapping the “Your watch is up to date” message multiple times.
- Disable Bluetooth and switch to Wi-Fi for a faster download process.
With the new features and improvements brought by Wear OS 5, the November 2024 update is expected to enhance the user experience across all Pixel Watch models, making the devices more reliable and secure.
Conclusion
The November 2024 update marks an important step for Google’s Pixel Watch series, addressing previous issues and resuming the rollout of Wear OS 5. With a range of bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features, users can look forward to a smoother and more responsive experience on their Pixel Watch devices.
If you own a Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, or Pixel Watch 3, be sure to check for updates and install the latest software to enjoy the enhanced functionality and security improvements.
Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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