Google to Launch New Wearable Device “Android Wear”

Google’s increasing their presence in the wearable device market, unveiling Android Wear, which may be a game changing technology.  The first Android Wear-powered products are expected to be smartwatches, and should be available to consumers by the end of the year.

Google is staying largely mum on its specific plans, but did say that it was working with the Fossil Group, a fashion industry mainstay, on a line of Android Wear smartwatches. In addition to the Fossil Group, Google acknowledged that it is negotiating with numerous electronics manufacturers, including Samsung, Motorola, LG, Asus and HTC, on an expanded line of wearable devices.

The announcement solidifies Google’s commitment to developing wearable devices. Its first offering, the Google Glass, is currently in a late developmental test phase.

Several potential Android Wear smartwatch designs have already been leaked by various sources. They confirm that Google is preparing a wide range of potential shapes and designs, and a sneak peek at functionality options suggests that the smartwatches will be capable of far more than just telling time.

However, it is worth noting that Samsung struck out big last year when Android-powered Galaxy Gear smartwatches flopped on the consumer market. Google claims that unlike Galaxy Gear, the Android Wear platform is designed specifically for wearable devices. The company believes that the fine-tuned operating system will deliver superior performance. Voice commands, delivered through the Google Now interface, are rumored to form a large part of the Android Wear user experience.

If the Android Wear ploy proves successful, Android app developers will have a powerful new platform and, potentially, a large new market to explore. While wearable devices are still in their infancy, a growing number of tech industry insiders believe they will eventually become a multibillion-dollar industry.

Seattle app developers can stay ahead of the curve by tracking growth and trends in the wearable device market, and anticipating new applications for wearable technology.