**Google’s Wear OS Clock App Now Exclusive to Pixel Smartwatches**
Google recently announced a significant change regarding its Wear OS Clock app—it will now be exclusive to Pixel smartwatches only. This means that non-Pixel Wear OS devices will lose access to the Clock app as well as any future updates.
Earlier this week, Google confirmed that it is withdrawing support for the Wear OS Clock app on all non-Pixel smartwatches. Users who previously relied on the app’s features—including the alarm, timer, and stopwatch functions—on devices such as the Galaxy Watch will no longer have access to them through Google’s app.
If you currently own a Pixel Watch, you won’t be affected by this change. However, for owners of any other Wear OS smartwatch, this decision marks the end of official support for the Clock app. While those who have already installed the app can continue to use it, they should be aware that it will no longer receive updates or improvements.
Google explained that the shift stems from growing competition within the Wear OS ecosystem. Many watch brands have started offering their own default clock apps, reducing the need for a one-size-fits-all Google Clock app. As a result, Google has retracted its app from these alternative devices to focus exclusively on Pixel watches.
This change has been met with some dissatisfaction among Wear OS users, as shared in Google’s official support thread. Nonetheless, Google appears firm in its decision. The company encourages users affected by the change to explore other clock apps available on the Play Store, which can serve as viable alternatives.
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**Wear OS 6 Update Rolls Out to Eligible Devices**
In a related development, Google has been rolling out Wear OS 6 upgrades to eligible devices, aiming to enhance the overall user experience. The Pixel Watch 4 was the first to ship with this newer software, which delivers a smoother scrolling experience and a fully immersive user interface designed specifically for the watch’s unique glass-domed display.
Starting in October, Google expanded Wear OS 6 availability to previous-generation Pixel Watches. Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 users have begun receiving the update, with an increasing number of devices expected to get it soon. Early reports confirmed the rollout via over-the-air (OTA) images, signaling Google’s commitment to keeping its Pixel smartwatches at the forefront of Wear OS advancements.
Unfortunately, the original Pixel Watch model does not appear to be included in this upgrade cycle, suggesting limited support for older hardware.
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**What This Means for Wear OS Users**
Google’s decision to limit the Clock app to Pixel devices and focus on Wear OS 6 for Pixel Watches underscores a shifting Wear OS landscape. As brands increasingly develop proprietary watch faces and apps, Google is concentrating its resources on delivering a polished and unique experience for its own hardware line.
For non-Pixel users, it may be time to explore alternative clock apps on the Play Store or consider devices that align more closely with their feature preferences. Meanwhile, Pixel Watch owners stand to benefit from exclusive app support and the latest software enhancements offered by Wear OS 6.
Stay tuned for further updates as Google continues to evolve its smartwatch platform.
https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch/google-confirms-end-of-clock-app-support-on-non-pixel-watches-amidst-user-backlash