Google Tailors Android for Wearables

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Android already powers a number of smartwatches, but now Google announces a version of OS tailored specifically for such devices-- the perhaps self-explanatory Android Wear.

Android WearAs seen in a typically slick demo video, Android Wear pushes location-based data from smartphones to smartwatches together with the usual bevy of message and social network notifications. It features a Google Now-style UI users and allows natural language input via the "OK Google" prompt.

According to Google it also handles functions such as health tracking and connectivity with other devices, such as summoning a playlist from a mobile device or pushing a video to a TV, while being extremely power efficient.

LG G WatchThe search giant is already working with a number of partners (namely Asus, HTC, LG, Motorola, Samsung, Broadcom, Imagination, Intel, Mediatek, Qualcomm and Fossil) and thus Wear reveal was accompanied by the launch of 2 smartwatches running on the platform-- the Moto 360 and the LG G Watch.

The Moto 360 is the more interesting of the pair, being a smartwatch that might be worth, well, wearing. It features a round face, construction in "premium" materials and promises to switch on as soon as the wearer lifts their wrist to look at it.

Meanwhile the LG G Watch is a more familiar smartwatch, with a square face and a chunky plastic wristband.

Android Wear is currently available to developers in preview SDK form, with first devices set to hit the market on Q2 2014.

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Go LG G Watch Powered By Android Wear