Google is readying up the release of an app that will see Android Wear functionality offered to iPhone and iPad users.
That’s right – Google is stepping over onto Apple’s smartwatch turf with its own dedicated iOS Android Wear app.
That’s according to French tech website 01net, which claims that Android Wear with extended iOS support will be announced at Google’s annual I/O developer conference in May.
What’s more, the report suggests Google might even push up the release even sooner depending on the sales of the Apple Watch.
Google expressed interest in bringing Android Wear smartwatches to iOS late last year, and it now seems that dream will finally become a reality.
“We always want as many users as possible to enjoy our experience, so in terms of enabling more people to use Android Wear we’re very interested in making that happen,” Android Wear PM Jeff Chang said in fielding questions on potential Android Wear support for iOS.
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Whatever restrictions were in place seem to have been lifted however, as Google will reportedly go ahead with the launch in the coming months.
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While Google’s Android platform holds the majority of global smartphone market share, Apple users tend to be much more liberal with their cash.
That’s why it’s no surprise Google is looking to get into the iOS game for wearable tech, as ignoring the demographic could mean missing out on a huge chunk of profits.
It’s an interesting move however, as the upcoming Apple Watch will now have to face off against a much larger host of rival smartwatches.
The majority of big hitter smartphone manufacturers have already launched their own smartwatches, many of which carry Android Wear OS on board.
Examples include Motorola’s Moto 360, LG’s G Watch R, the Sony Smartwatch 3, and the Asus ZenWatch.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
