Google and Amazfit announce major smartwatch software updates

Google is rolling out a significant update to Google Play Services (v26.31) that enhances GPS accuracy for Wear OS smartwatches, including Samsung Galaxy Watch models. The update allows devices to send raw location data to Google servers for processing, which helps reduce errors and deviations in recorded outdoor exercise routes. While LTE-enabled watches can utilize this cloud processing in real-time, Bluetooth-only models will receive the improvements after syncing with a smartphone or Wi-Fi.

Separately, Amazfit has released a software update for eight of its recent smartwatch models, including the Balance, T-Rex, and Cheetah series. The update introduces new sports features such as manual rest marking for swimmers to better differentiate between laps and breaks, and FTMS protocol support for indoor rowing machines like the Concept2 RowErg. Additionally, an ‘Always Locked’ touchscreen mode is being introduced for certain models to prevent accidental inputs during workouts, alongside a new ‘Athlete’ mode to automate training settings.