LG Partnering With Google For First Android Wear 2.0 Smartwatches

LG and Google are expected to release the first smartwatches with Android Wear 2.0 early next month.

According to a report from prominent leaker Evan Blass, LG and Google will release two new smartwatches in the US the day after the expected launch of Android Wear 2.0 on February 9.

The LG Watch Sport will be the flagship device according to Blass, and is rumoured to feature a 1.38-inch 480×480 display, 768MB of RAM and a 430mAh battery.

The LG Watch Style is expected to launch at a cheaper price point, with a 1.2-inch 360×360 display, 512MB of RAM and a 240mAh hour battery. Both devices will feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, while the Sport adds 3G/LTE and GPS, a heart rate sensor, and NFC connectivity for Android Pay support.

iOS compatibility is expected, with LG apparently taking inspiration from the Apple Watch with a ‘digital crown’ for navigation on both of its smartwatches. The devices will also integrate Google Assistant currently only found on Google branded products.

Both of the devices are resistant against water and dust. The LG Watch Style is certified IP67 allowing for immersion in up to 1m of water for 30 minutes, and the Sport is certified IP68 allowing for immersion in deeper water for more time (with specific details to be confirmed by LG and Google).

More information on the smartwatches is expected at an Android Wear 2.0 launch event on February 9, with LG expected to heavily promote the devices at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in late February.