Google is reportedly working on a new feature called “Raise to Talk” for its Wear OS smartwatches. This innovative gesture aims to allow users to activate Google Assistant or the upcoming Gemini simply by lifting their smartwatch. This feature is reminiscent of Apple’s Raise to Speak function found on Apple Watches, which enables users to trigger Siri with a similar motion.
The introduction of the Raise to Talk gesture could significantly enhance the user experience for Wear OS smartwatch owners. Currently, users can activate Google Assistant via several methods, including the “Hey Google” hotword and a quick button press. However, the new gesture would provide an additional, hands-free option for users seeking a more seamless interaction with their devices. Notably, this feature might be exclusive to the Pixel Watch, further enriching the Pixel ecosystem.
As the screens on most smartwatches are relatively small, they are suitable for basic gestures but can be limiting for more complex interactions. Consequently, users often rely on voice assistants to perform a wider range of tasks efficiently. Currently, this capability is primarily facilitated through Google Assistant on Wear OS devices, but the transition to Gemini promises even more advanced features and functionalities.
An APK teardown of the Google app version 16.14.39 beta has unveiled potential features that may be on the horizon for Wear OS. While detailed information about the Raise to Talk feature is scarce, preliminary findings suggest that it will offer a hands-free method for users to engage with Google Assistant or Gemini just by raising their wrist. This could revolutionize how users interact with their smartwatches, making it more intuitive and user-friendly.
For context, Apple has long offered a similar feature known as Raise to Speak on its Apple Watches. Users can simply raise their wrist and speak to activate Siri, with the added flexibility of toggling this feature on or off. Other ways to engage Siri include using hotwords like “Siri” or “Hey Siri,” as well as pressing and holding the Digital Crown button to bring up the Siri interface.
While the Raise to Talk feature shows promise, it remains unclear whether it will be rolled out across all Wear OS smartwatches or if it will be a Pixel Watch exclusive. Analysts are leaning towards the latter, suggesting that this feature could complement the overall experience of using a Pixel Watch. As of now, the feature is not yet live, and Google has not officially confirmed its development. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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