Update 1 (March 22, 2024)
18:53 pm (IST): Following the announcement at the MWC 2024 event in late February and the subsequent March Pixel feature Drop, Google Maps for Wear OS devices is now rolling out the public transit directions feature to more users.
Original article from March 5 follows:
Google Maps on Wear OS just got a major upgrade for commuters. The March Pixel Feature Drop brings public transit directions directly to the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2. This means you don’t have to fumble with your phone on crowded buses or trains because essential directions now live a glance away on your wrist.
The update offers a comprehensive transit planning experience. You’ll have access to multiple transit options tailored to your route, along with accurate, real-time departure information. A compass-enabled map view ensures you stay on track, guiding you seamlessly to your destination.
Whether you’re on the go or simply prefer the convenience of your smartwatch, getting around is now even easier. You can either initiate a trip from your phone and pick up directions on the watch, or start directly from your wrist if you have an LTE-enabled Pixel Watch model.
Google acknowledges that not all transit scenarios fit the mold. While the updated Pixel Watch excels in providing transit directions, it currently doesn’t handle “mixed mode” trips. These are combinations of non-transit (walking, biking, driving) and transit (bus, train) options. But having acknowledged it, Google is likely working on this limitation for future updates.
Overall, adding support for transit directions in Google Maps is a significant win for Pixel Watch and Watch 2 users who rely on public transport. It streamlines urban navigation and aligns with Google’s goal of making Maps even more helpful across devices, especially wearables. The March Feature Drop also adds support for automatic workout detection, pace and heart zone training as well as guided breathing exercises to help you relax — right from your wrist.
Below is a video demo of the updated Google Maps with transit directions on the Pixel Watch:
Hillary Keverenge
2107 Posts
Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.
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