"Android Wear 2.0": Five functions that are nice for business users

　Google's "Android Wear" released in 2014 is based on the mobile OS "Android" and is an OS designed to be used in a smartwatch.Android Wear is one of the main software platforms that appeared early for wearable products, strengthening Google's position in the smartwatch market.

　Google is "Android Wear 2 at Google I/O 2016" two years after the first announcement."0" was performed.It is a large -scale update with new displays and functions.In particular, improvements and updates have been made so that it becomes a more convenient productive tool for business users who use Google ecosystem.

　The content of the update depends on the range of design, communication, and usability.Here are five functions that business users can expand their use.

1.Standalone app

　Generally, it is probably the biggest update, and it is also useful for professional users to support standalone apps.Even if you do not pair with your smartphone, the Android Wear app will be able to access the Internet directly on Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular data.

　Google has realized this by eliminating the dependence on the Android Wear device to the Data Layer API, and all functions can now be used without linking with smartphones.Even if your smartphone is damaged or left in the company, you can check the schedule for the day, and you will not overlook important emails and messages.

2.notification

　Smartwatches are most often used as an auxiliary system that links with smartphones so as not to overlook important messages and reminders.Android Wear 2.In 0, the design and usability of the notification function have been improved.

　In terms of design, the icons are smaller, and the message is displayed in the center with a dark color background, making it easier to read.In terms of usability, a functional expansion that can add content and action to specific notifications has been introduced.

3.Messaging

　Android Wear 2.In 0, the message related notification can be used in a sense of more chat, and a new reply function has been added.This has been introduced to the developer as a notification of "MessagingStyle"."Smart Reply" is a function that allows you to reply by tapping the message of the presented reply candidate once.For example, if the content of the received message is a compliment, tap "Reply" (reply), then "Thank you!" (Thank you!).(Thank you for saying so) will be presented and selected.

4.input

　Smart watches have a smaller screen compared to smartphones and tablets, and it is difficult to enter a clear and accurate reply.Android Wear 2.In 0, the hands -free function is expanded, and operations such as transmission of messages can be performed with new gestures and enhanced voice control functions.

　Furthermore, Android Wear 2.In 0, you can now input keyboards and handwritten on Android Wear devices.In order to achieve this, Android's "Input Method Framework (IMF)" framework is newly compatible with Android Wear, enabling automatic scrolling handwriting input and smooth virtual keyboard input.

5.rainwear

　Android Wear 2, as is the release of any software.Therainwear has been greatly improved in 0.The launcher of the app has been redesigned, the app menu is displayed in a circular shape, making it easier to find the necessary apps.The new drawers used for operations and actions also provide user experience that is easier to use.

　One of the largest updates is the new "COMPLICATIONS API".Complications is basically a widget that users can add to their smartwatch dial.For example, it can be added to the dial so that you can see a pedometer at any time, or you do not have to search for a list to do from the menu.

This article edited an article from overseas CBS Interactive by Asahi Interactive for Japan.