It’s the end of an era for Google’s first Pixel Watch. But here’s where it gets bittersweet—while the device won’t be left in the dust entirely, its journey with major Wear OS upgrades is officially over. Let’s break it down.
Google’s inaugural 2022 Pixel Watch is receiving its final software update, a minor patch labeled BW1A.251005.003.W1. This update keeps the watch on Wear OS 5.1, effectively closing the door on any future major system upgrades. And this is the part most people miss—while the watch won’t leap to Wear OS 6 like its newer counterparts, it’s not being abandoned. Google will continue to push app and service updates through the Play Store, ensuring the watch remains functional, if not cutting-edge.
The update itself is straightforward, focusing on security fixes and bug resolutions, as noted in the official release (via 9to5Google). This means the Pixel Watch won’t be left vulnerable, but it also won’t gain the flashy new features or performance boosts that come with a full OS upgrade. Launched in October 2022, the first-gen Pixel Watch marked Google’s return to the smartwatch arena, powered by a Samsung Exynos 9110 chip and running Wear OS 3.5 at launch.
Over its three-year lifespan, the watch received multiple updates that improved performance, battery life, and even two major OS upgrades—from Wear OS 3.5 to 4, and finally to 5.1. But here’s the controversial part—is three years of support enough for a device in a market where newer models quickly overshadow their predecessors? While Google’s commitment to app updates is commendable, it raises questions about the longevity of smartwatches compared to traditional timepieces.
If you’re still rocking the first-gen Pixel Watch, it’s highly recommended to install this final update. Head to Settings → System → System Updates on your watch to check for it manually. Though small, it’s crucial for maintaining stability and security. And while it’s a bit sad to see the curtain fall on major updates, the Pixel Watch has had a respectable run—three years of consistent improvements is no small feat.
From here on, the watch will continue to function reliably, but it won’t share in the major Wear OS advancements that newer Pixel Watch models will enjoy. So, here’s a thought-provoking question for you—as smartwatches become increasingly disposable, how should manufacturers balance innovation with sustainability? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
For the latest Android news, stay tuned to Android Central, your go-to source for all things Android. And if you’re wondering, yes, your essential apps and services will still receive updates via the Google Play Store, even as the core OS remains static.
Jay Bonggolto, our tech-savvy writer, has been covering consumer tech and apps for years, with a soft spot for Android since the Jelly Bean days. Connect with him on X or LinkedIn for more insights.
