Google Introduces Android Wear – A Wearable Version Of Android

After all sorts of rumours and speculation, Google has officially unveiled the next evolution of Android – Android Wear.  As the name suggests, this particular branch of Android is aimed particularly at wearable device, such as smartwatches.  While the software is definitely still Android at the core, it showcases a brand new UI that will focus on bringing you “information that moves you.”  Here are some of key points Google notes in their blog:

• Useful information when you need it most. Android Wear shows you info and suggestions you need, right when you need them. The wide variety of Android applications means you’ll receive the latest posts and updates from your favorite social apps, chats from your preferred messaging apps, notifications from shopping, news and photography apps, and more.
• Straight answers to spoken questions. Just say “Ok Google” to ask questions, like how many calories are in an avocado, what time your flight leaves, and the score of the game. Or say “Ok Google” to get stuff done, like calling a taxi, sending a text, making a restaurant reservation or setting an alarm.
• The ability to better monitor your health and fitness. Hit your exercise goals with reminders and fitness summaries from Android Wear. Your favorite fitness apps can give you real-time speed, distance and time information on your wrist for your run, cycle or walk.
• Your key to a multiscreen world. Android Wear lets you access and control other devices from your wrist. Just say “Ok Google” to fire up a music playlist on your phone, or cast your favorite movie to your TV. There’s a lot of possibilities here so we’re eager to see what developers build.

From what they show in their demo videos, the UI is basically a watch friendly version of Google Now.  All the information is contextual and laid out in a Google Now-esque card.  I’m really liking what I’m seeing and I can’t wait for the first Android Wear devices to start hitting the market!  According to Google they are “already working with several consumer electronics manufacturers, including Asus, HTC, LG, Motorola and Samsung; chip makers Broadcom, Imagination, Intel, Mediatek and Qualcomm; and fashion brands like the Fossil Group to bring you watches powered by Android Wear later this year.”  We have heard rumours of a HTC Google Now watch so that rumour just gained a whole lot more traction!

Check out the videos below!  What do you guys think?  Will you be sporting Android Wear in the future?

[Google]