What you need to know
- Google has previously hinted that you can use Google Maps on Wear OS without pairing your phone.
- This feature is now available to provide turn-by-turn directions on Wear OS watches with LTE connectivity.
- The new features don’t seem to be available on older Wear OS 2 devices.
Google had previously hinted at the ability to use Google Maps on Wear OS without tethering to your phone, but the feature has finally rolled out after some time.
The company announced an update in a blog post on Thursday, sharing details about using the feature. The app and navigation opened at the same time on my Android smartphone. It seems pretty redundant when it’s open on both devices, but the latest update finally addresses this.
Ideally the watch should have an LTE connection for this to work. Google says a Wi-Fi connection might also work, but I don’t think it’s reliable.
You can start navigating without a paired phone, just like with your phone. Open Google Maps on your smartwatch, type or select your destination, choose your mode of transport (walk, bike, or car) and go.
“This is especially helpful if you’re out for a run or ride and have misplaced your phone but want to make a detour or need help finding your way home,” Google said in a blog post. .
The linked Wear OS support page states that this apparently does not apply to Wear OS 2 smartwatches, stating that “Turn-by-turn directions are only available in the Google Maps app on the paired phone. “It has been described as. That means you’ll need a new Wear OS 3 smartwatch for untethered turn-by-turn navigation. LTE is ideal. As such, there are currently only a few devices, such as the Pixel Watch and the Galaxy Watch 5.
So far this feature doesn’t seem to work on my LTE Galaxy Watch 5 yet. Because it prompts me to connect my phone, but I’m sure the update will arrive at any moment.
The Pixel Watch is one of our favorite Wear OS smartwatches. It’s gorgeously designed, performs amazingly well, and integrates with Fitbit for your health and fitness needs.
