Latest news with #AndroidWear
Mint
23-07-2025
- Mint
Moto 360 could return in 2025 with a smarter look and smarter software
Motorola seems ready to revive its most iconic wearable. The Moto 360, once seen as the crown jewel of Android Wear devices, is expected to return in 2025 with a new design and modern features. Renders leaked by Android Headlines reveal a smartwatch that holds on to the original round-faced appeal while introducing modern refinements. The stainless steel-like casing, circular bezel and rotatable crown bring back memories of the original design. However, this time, Motorola has opted for a more premium look with metal link bands and a neatly polished finish. The smartwatch also features a second button below the crown, much like some recent watches from Samsung and OnePlus. Software is where the 2025 Moto 360 could get interesting. Unlike its predecessors, the new model may feature two different operating modes. One is expected to be Google's Wear OS, offering support for apps, maps, and voice assistant features. The other is a real-time OS that helps stretch battery life by handling essential tasks like step counting, media control, and Bluetooth calling. This approach aims to combine power and efficiency, which has become a popular solution among smartwatch brands. With this dual-mode operation, users could enjoy both performance and extended usage without needing to recharge frequently. The history of the Moto 360 is one of early innovation followed by quiet absence. Launched in 2014, it was among the first smartwatches to adopt Android Wear. It brought a round display to the table when most competitors were still using square designs. A second version followed, but the line faded before making a return through licensing in 2019. The 2025 model signals a more direct involvement from Motorola. This time, the development is expected to happen in-house, reflecting a renewed interest in the wearables market. As for the operating system, the rumours remain mixed. While the device may include Wear OS, there is still no confirmation from Motorola. Past smartwatches from the brand have used its own lightweight operating systems for speed and battery efficiency. With the smartwatch market now dominated by Apple, Samsung, and Google, Motorola's success may depend on how well it balances style, software and battery life.
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Business Standard
22-07-2025
- Business Standard
Moto 360 smartwatch to return in 2025 with dual OS and new design: Report
Motorola is reportedly planning a 2025 relaunch of its Moto 360 smartwatch, one of the earliest round-faced smartwatches to run Android Wear. According to Android Headlines, the upcoming Moto 360 is expected to feature a hybrid dual operating system setup, combining Google's Wear OS in Smart Mode and a Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) in Power Saver Mode. This approach could bring smarter features without compromising battery life, a method recently adopted by OnePlus in its smartwatch range. Moto 360 smartwatch: What to expect The leaked renders show that the 2025 Moto 360 will retain its signature circular display with hour and minute markers on the bezel. Unlike Motorola's square Moto Watch Fit, this version sticks to the classic round shape. The device includes a rotating crown at the 2 o'clock position with the Motorola 'M' logo and a secondary button at 4 o'clock—similar in design to the OnePlus Watch 3. It is expected to be offered in five colour options. Motorola's recent smartwatches have used the proprietary Moto Watch OS, which is optimised for speed and battery efficiency but offers limited app support. The new Moto 360, however, is expected to switch between two operating systems: Smart Mode (Wear OS): Offers access to apps, notifications, and features through Google's ecosystem. Power Saver Mode (RTOS): Switches to a lightweight real-time OS that enables basic tasks such as fitness tracking, media control, and Bluetooth calling while conserving battery. This hybrid OS system is designed to balance performance and battery life, making the device more versatile for all-day use. A brief history of Moto 360 The Moto 360 was first launched in 2014 and was among the earliest Android Wear smartwatches, debuting alongside models from Samsung and LG. It stood out for its round design, despite criticism over its 'flat tyre' display cut-out at the bottom. Motorola released two generations of the Moto 360 before discontinuing the lineup in 2017. In 2019, the Moto 360 resurfaced under the brand eBuyNow through a licensing deal, though Motorola was no longer directly involved in its production. The 2025 version marks the company's return to the Moto 360 line, promising a refreshed design and smarter OS functionality. The smartwatch is expected to launch later this year.
GSM Arena
21-07-2025
- GSM Arena
Moto 360 (2025) smartwatch leaks in official-looking renders
Motorola is apparently working on a new smartwatch - meet the Moto 360 (2025). This has today been leaked in the renders you can see below, which show a stainless steel bracelet instead of the rubber strap we're used to seeing smartwatches in. That makes for a nice change of pace, but what's still a mystery here is whether this will run Wear OS or some proprietary OS. The source of this leak "expects" it to be the former, but that doesn't sound like a very convincing argument at this point. Moto 360 (2025) leaked renders The first Moto 360 came in 2014 and ran Android Wear, being the first round smartwatch using Google's platform. There were two generations before discontinuation, and then in 2019 the name Moto 360 was revived, but under a licensing agreement with a third party. This time around, the implication is that Motorola is back at the wheel, hence the belief that Wear OS is involved somehow. Then again, the recently launched Moto Watch Fit doesn't run Wear OS, hence our skepticism. Anyway, the new Moto 360 will apparently be available in five colors when it arrives later this year. Unfortunately, no other details about it are known just yet. Source
Phone Arena
21-07-2025
- Phone Arena
Motorola is reportedly bringing the Moto 360 Watch back this year with this familiar design
What feels like a throwback to the early days of Android smartwatches is now shaping up to what might be one of Motorola's most surprising moves of the year. The company is reportedly preparing to relaunch the Moto 360 in 2025, and newly leaked images offer an early look at the refreshed design. Originally launched in 2014, the Moto 360 was the first circular smartwatch to run Android Wear, though it had a distinctive "flat tire" cutout at the bottom of the screen. Motorola followed up with a second generation in 2015 before shelving the series in 2017. A third model appeared in 2021, but it was developed by eBuyNow, a Canadian company that licensed the Moto brand. That model ran Wear OS and offered updated internals in a familiar shell, as we previously reported. Now, the Moto 360 name is back again, and this time it looks like Motorola is handling the relaunch in-house. The 2025 version keeps the round display but adopts a more refined frame with a rotating crown at the 2 o'clock position and a secondary button at 4 o'clock. It's a setup that closely resembles the OnePlus Watch 3. Leaked renders of the 2025 version of the rumored Moto 360 watch. | Images credit — Android Headlines Interestingly, it also appears that Motorola is moving ahead with five color variants for this new model. The case appears to have a brushed metal finish and flatter lugs than the older eBuyNow version. That said, many questions remain—particularly around software. As with the Moto Watch Fit earlier this year, the new Moto 360 may not use Google's Wear OS at all. Instead, Motorola could be relying on its in-house Moto Watch OS, a real-time operating system (RTOS) designed for better efficiency and longer battery life. The company has used this approach before and could be considering a dual-OS setup, pairing Moto Watch OS with a light version of Wear OS for specific features. That said, the UI shown in the leaked images bears a close resemblance to Wear OS, which raises the possibility that Motorola may still be aiming for some level of compatibility with Google's ecosystem. While no launch date has been confirmed, the name suggests it could arrive later this year. If Motorola does bring the Moto 360 back with meaningful upgrades and thoughtful software integration, it may find a niche among users nostalgic for classic smartwatch designs. We will, of course, be keeping a close eye on how this model develops and whether it signals a broader return to form for Motorola's wearable lineup. I have noticed there seems to be quite a bit of interest in classic-looking watches, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, signaling this could be a good move on Motorola's part to provide some competition in this space.
Chicago Tribune
02-06-2025
- Chicago Tribune
Best smartwatch
Some smartwatches work best paired with a phone and some work well all their own. They no longer are a new or unusual product, so there are many varieties of smartwatches designed with different purposes and budgets in mind. The top choice is the Apple Watch Series 10 for those who want a premium-quality smartwatch with many features. The latest generation of Apple Watch technology is stylish and customizable. Which operating system you use To connect a smartwatch to your existing smartphone or other devices, it should be compatible. For example, the Apple Watch integrates well with iPhones and other Apple products. Before buying a smartwatch, check that it will function well with smart devices you already own. Are you using a smartwatch for fitness? Many smartwatches have useful health and fitness tracking features. However, you do not necessarily need a smartwatch to access such tech. You can connect dedicated fitness tracker devices to your smartphone, which costs much less. The battery life of dedicated fitness trackers also tends to be more than what users can expect from a smartwatch. If your main goal is fitness, consider fitness trackers instead of a smartwatch. Manufacturer Different smartwatch makers operate on different product life cycles. Depending on when you are looking for a smartwatch, a new model may be nearing release. Before investing in a smartwatch, research the different options that interest you and determine if the company plans to release an improved model soon. It might be worth waiting for a higher-quality piece of wearable tech. Applications The best smartwatches have application support for the apps you use. Depending on the smartphone you use, different smartwatches help you get the most out of the app software. Apple watches are best for iPhone users, and smartwatches with Android Wear are best for Android users. Fitness features Smartwatches have varying degrees of fitness tracking. Some serve as simple step counters or monitor vitals, but some can use GPS functionality to track exercise routes on foot or on a bike. If you need more fitness tracking options, there are smartwatches optimized with useful features, but not all smartwatches are specifically designed for fitness buffs. Performance plans Although not a feature of a quality smartwatch itself, the insurance plan is an important part of the purchase. Unlike smartphones, which spend most of their time in a user's pocket, a smartwatch is exposed to wear and tear on the user's arm. A performance plan is not necessary with many electronic devices, but with a smartwatch, it is necessary to get a plan that covers accidental damage to the vulnerable glass screen and small components. A smartwatch with basic, entry-level functionality costs $100-$200. Smartwatches with app support and integration can go up to $400, while models featuring independent LTE functionality can cost more than $400. Can smartwatches make phone calls? A. Depending on the model, a smartwatch may be able to act as the microphone and speaker for a call using a separate smartphone. In other cases, the smartwatch can make calls and connect to the internet by itself rather than depending on a secondary device. Models that operate as independent mobile devices are more costly. Do you need a special charger for a smartwatch? A. Some models use proprietary charging cables instead of generic chargers that you may already own or easily can find. If standard micro-USB cables are incompatible with your smartwatch, get a duplicate of the special charger that you need. If that is a concern, it might be better to find a smartwatch able to charge with common cables. Top smartwatch Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46-millimeter case) What you need to know: These versatile and high-quality watches include a wide range of features and the quality customers expect from Apple. What you'll love: It can monitor and measure health information while worn and track sleep. It has a large OLED screen that is easy to read and a high-end processor. It has fitness tracking features and statistics for the user. The design is customizable for the individual and is a simple, stylish piece of wearable tech. What you should consider: The price is high, but if that does not turn you away, there is not much to complain about with this one. Top smartwatch for the money Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) What you need to know: This second-generation version of the capable Apple Watch SE delivers all the essential functions of the more expensive Apple Watches at a fraction of the price. What you'll love: Though much less expensive, it shares many of the same features of the Apple Watch Series 9. You can track your heart rate, workouts and sleep easily with the health tracking capabilities. It's available with or without GPS and in a 40- or 44-millimeter case. The interface is intuitive and easy to read. What you should consider: The display lacks the 'always-on' functionality that other Apple Watches have. Worth checking out Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 What you need to know: This is an affordable Android smartwatch with a solid array of features that provides great value for the price. What you'll love: It has Galaxy AI-enhanced health tracking features for detecting heart rate, sleep and movements such as steps or falls. You can start the day with an 'Energy Score' calculated on your watch, which uses AI to determine your physical readiness for the day based on what you did the day before. It is very durable and pairs well with a high-quality smartphone companion app. What you should consider: Some variations of the model are more pricey than others, depending on the size and materials. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
