Android Wear gets major update; adds Wi-Fi support, emojis and more

Google announced major updates for its Android Wear software for smartwatches in a bid to increase usability and access to a range of information and apps right on one’s wrist. The slew of new features include always-on modes to provide useful information such as locations on a map or lists – all available to the eye without turning on the screen – increased Wi-Fi function, extra usability gestures and the ability to draw emojis, according to the official Google Blog . But that doesn’t mean drawing skills are necessarily a prerequisite. The new function allows users to respond to a message by drawing a picture – e.g., a smiley face or thumbs up – and Android Wear translates the picture into a corresponding emoji using a new handwriting recognition technology launched by Google last week. All seven Android Wear watches will have access to the update over the next few weeks, starting with the soon-to-be-released LG Watch Urbane. AFP