The disappearance of Google Assistant from many smartwatches coincided with the release of the Wear OS 3 update. Subsequently, only the Pixel Watch and newer models of Samsung’s Galaxy Watches maintained the Assistant’s functionality. Now, however, users no longer need to switch to another brand to communicate with Google through their wristwear. Fossil has announced a new update, scheduled for this month, which brings Assistant to Gen 6 watches running on Wear OS 3. The update covers not only Fossil’s own devices but also partner models from Diesel, Michael Kors, and Skagen. To avail this feature, though, users must have their smartwatches synced with a standard Android phone loaded with Google apps. Android Go and many Chinese phones do not meet this requirement.
Users familiar with Google or Samsung wrist gadgets will easily recognize the functionality. The AI assistant can be activated through verbal commands (“hey Google”), by pressing a button, or by tapping a watch face complication. The feature facilitates actions such as answering texts, controlling music, or performing other tasks that would typically require your phone. A unique addition to this is the availability of Alexa, offering users the freedom from being confined to a single ecosystem for voice commands.
If you own a Wear OS 3 watch from another brand, such as Mobvoi or Montblanc, this update won’t be of much help. Fossil, however, is a major player in the realm of Google-powered smartwatches. Hence, this update ensures a significant number of wearable users can employ Assistant, thereby mitigating the need for using a tiny screen.
Potential smartwatch buyers may want to hold off for now. Fossil traditionally launches new Wear OS models in the latter part of the summer, except for this year’s slightly enhanced Gen 6 Wellness Edition released in January. The specifics and release date of the Gen 7 model remain uncertain, but expectations are high for a substantial upgrade. Therefore, it’s not advisable to rush for the Gen 6 model solely because of the new Assistant update. This update primarily benefits existing owners who have lost functionality due to last year’s updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fossil Google Assistant Update
Which smartwatches are included in the Fossil update integrating Google Assistant?
The Fossil update applies to Gen 6 watches running on Wear OS 3. This covers Fossil’s own models and also extends to partner brands like Diesel, Michael Kors, and Skagen.
Do I need a specific type of phone to use Google Assistant on my smartwatch after the update?
Yes, your smartwatch needs to be paired with a phone running standard Android loaded with Google apps to use Google Assistant. Phones running Android Go and many Chinese models won’t be compatible with this feature.
How can I activate Google Assistant on my updated smartwatch?
You can activate the AI assistant on your smartwatch by saying “hey Google”, holding down a button, or tapping a watch face complication.
Will I be able to use other voice assistants like Alexa on my updated smartwatch?
Yes, in addition to Google Assistant, you will also have Alexa on hand, which ensures you’re not locked into one ecosystem for voice commands.
I own a Wear OS 3 watch from another brand, will I benefit from this update?
Unfortunately, the update will not be much help for users of Wear OS 3 watches from brands other than Fossil, Diesel, Michael Kors, and Skagen. Fossil is a popular name in Google-powered smartwatches and this update primarily serves their users.
Should I buy the Gen 6 model now that it supports Google Assistant?
While the Gen 6 model now supports Google Assistant, it’s advisable to wait if you’re new to smartwatches. Fossil typically introduces new models in late summer. Although details about the Gen 7 model are yet unknown, it’s likely to present a significant upgrade. The update is mainly intended for existing Gen 6 owners who lost certain functionalities due to last year’s updates.
More about Fossil Google Assistant Update
- Fossil Official Site
- Google Assistant
- Wear OS by Google
- Diesel Smartwatches
- Michael Kors Access Smartwatches
- Skagen Connected Watches
- Android Standard and Android Go
7 comments
Super stoked for this. Also nice that they’ve included Alexa, too. More choices, ya know? Keep it up, Fossil!
Yay! Michael Kors watches included too. Cant wait to start chatting with Google on my wrist again lol.
Fossil’s doing some serious catch up, huh? About time they sorted this out. Now lets see when that gen 7 drops.
Wonder how the other Wear OS 3 brands will respond to this move. the game’s heating up.
Finally! I’ve been waiting for Google Assistant to come back to my Fossil watch. Awesome move guys.
What’s the point, if my chinese phone isn’t supported? Really fossil… disappointing to say the least.
glad I held off buying the Gen 6. Now I can wait and see what the Gen 7’s got in store. Patience does pay off! 🙂