Android Wear Gives Smartwatches Direct Mobile Data Connectivity

Android Wear watchesGoogle has added support for a direct mobile data connection to Android Wear, paving the way for smartwatches that dont constantly require a paired phone to connect to the internet.

When compatible watches leave the range of their Bluetooth or wi-fi connection, they will switch automatically to a mobile network to send and receive messages, make calls, access Google search and use apps. However, they will still need to be initially connected to a smartphone – running Android 4.4 or iOS 7.0 or higher – in order to function.

LGs Watch Urbane 2nd Edition LTE will be the first Android Wear device with cellular connection support, available from AT&T and Verizon in the US. The watch will launch outside of the US within the coming months.