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Wear OS Revival: The Best Android-Powered Smartwatches
Google’s Wear OS has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years, thanks to the innovative designs and impressive performance of smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch, OnePlus Watch 2, and Google’s own Pixel Watch series.
With their sleek designs, enhanced capabilities, and seamless software integration, these Android-powered smartwatches have established themselves as some of the best ever created. Whether you’re looking for improved functionality or a stylish accessory, there’s something for everyone in this range of devices.
Also: The best smartwatches you can buy: Expert
tested
The Ongoing Battle with Battery Life: A Challenge for Wearable Devices
While advancements in technology have made significant strides, battery life remains an ongoing concern for many wearable devices. OnePlus’ achievement in delivering multiday battery life on a Wear OS device is a notable exception, but unfortunately, this feat has not been replicated by most other wearables on the market.
As a result, if you own a Wear OS watch, it’s likely that you’ll need to recharge it at least once daily, which can be frustratingly inconvenient, especially when faced with a day of heavy use.
Prolonging Your Watch’s Battery Life: 10 Effective Tips
Are you concerned about your Wear OS device’s daily endurance? Worry no more! By implementing the following strategies, you can conserve extra battery power and ensure your watch remains functional throughout the day.
These techniques are universally applicable to all recent Wear OS models, making it easy for you to put them into practice.
1. Turn off the always-on display
The Always-On Display: A Major Battery Life Drain for Wear OS Watches
Wear OS watches often struggle with poor battery life, and a primary contributor to this issue is the always-on display. Despite manufacturers claiming it only marginally affects battery life during the day, the reality is far from it.
In fact, enabling this feature can be the difference between your watch lasting all day and running out of power before you even reach home in the afternoon. While being able to glance at your watch’s face without needing to raise your wrist may be a convenient perk, it’s essential to disable this option when extra battery life is needed.
By turning off the always-on display, you can ensure your Wear OS watch lasts as long as possible on a single charge.
Disable Always-On Display on Your Watch
To prevent your watch’s screen from staying lit all the time, follow these simple steps:
Tap the gear icon at the top of the screen by swiping down.
Access the Settings menu and navigate to the “Display” section.
Toggle off the “Always-on display” option to conserve battery life.
To reactivate the feature, repeat the same process and turn it back on.
2. Switch to a watch face with fewer complications
Jason Hiner/ZDNET
Optimize Your Wear OS Watch Face for Maximum Style and Efficiency
Your watch face is an excellent canvas for showcasing your personal style while providing essential information at a glance. However, if you’re overwhelmed by too many data-driven complications (typically three to five), your Wear OS device will continuously fetch new data in the background, thereby increasing energy consumption.
To minimize power usage, consider simplifying your watch face with only a couple of complications. This approach will help you strike a balance between style and efficiency, ensuring your wearable remains a reliable companion throughout the day.
Also: Google Pixel Watch 2 review: In one key area, it surpasses every
other smartwatch
Streamline Your Watch Face: A Guide to Customization
To unlock the customization menu on your watch, simply tap and hold on the watch face until it appears. From there, you can effortlessly swipe through various preset faces and make adjustments to previously configured ones by removing data-intensive widgets.
Additionally, consider adopting a more subtle color scheme to ensure a sleeker overall design.
3. Use automatic screen brightness
Optimize Your Wear OS Watch’s Display for Better Battery Life
When using a Wear OS smartwatch in direct sunlight, it’s easy to crank up the display brightness to compensate for the glare. However, maintaining maximum brightness at all times can lead to unexpected battery drain.
Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: enable auto-brightness on your watch. This feature automatically adjusts the screen brightness based on the ambient light, ensuring you can still see the display clearly while minimizing power consumption.
Adjusting Brightness Settings on Your Smartwatch
To modify the display brightness on your smartwatch, follow these steps:
Swipe down from the top of the screen to access quick settings.
Tap the sun icon to navigate to your brightness settings.
From there, you can adjust the display brightness by turning it up or down.
Additionally, you have the option to enable “Auto brightness” for a more adaptive experience.
Note that on certain smartwatches, such as the Galaxy Watch 6, you may need to visit the Settings app and navigate to the Display section to find the toggle for “Adaptive brightness”.
4. Get rid of power-hungry apps
Streamlining Your Watch’s App Collection: A Guide to Efficiency
When installing a new application on your phone, it’s not uncommon for it to automatically sync with your watch. This approach offers a convenient way to mirror the setup on your phone across your wearable device. However, if you primarily rely on notifications on your watch and rarely use apps, it may be time to reassess your app collection.
By removing unused apps from your Wear OS device, you can free up valuable storage space and prevent battery drain when you’re not actively using them. This simple yet effective step can significantly enhance the overall performance of your smartwatch.
Effortlessly Remove Unwanted Apps from Your Wear OS Watch
To eliminate unwanted applications from your smartwatch, follow these simple steps:
Tap the power button once to access the list of installed apps on your Wear OS watch.
From this menu, navigate to the Google Play Store by selecting it from the options provided.
Next, swipe down from the top of the display to locate the “My Apps” icon.
You will be presented with a comprehensive list of all apps currently installed on your watch. Find the one you wish to uninstall and tap on it to initiate the process.
Scroll to the bottom of the app’s menu and select “Uninstall” to complete the removal process.
By following these straightforward steps, you can efficiently manage your Wear OS watch’s app library and remove any unwanted or redundant applications that are taking up valuable storage space.
5. Disable “Hey Google” detection
Matthew Miller/ZDNET
Elevate Your Smartwatch Experience with Voice Assistant Control
Having a voice assistant at your fingertips can significantly streamline daily tasks, and raising your wrist to initiate conversations only adds to the convenience. However, constant monitoring for “Hey Google” detection can have an adverse impact on your Wear OS watch’s battery life, as it consumes power by continuously using the microphone.
Fortunately, disabling this feature is a straightforward process, allowing you to strike a balance between functionality and power efficiency.
Disable “Hey Google” Detection on Your Watch
To disable “Hey Google” detection on your watch, follow these steps:
Tap the gear icon to access Settings, which can be found by swiping down on your watch’s display.
In the Settings menu, navigate to the “Google” section and scroll down until you find the option labeled “Assistant”.
Select the “Assistant” option to proceed.
You will then be presented with an option to disable “Hey Google” detection. Tap this option to complete the process.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively disable “Hey Google” detection on your watch, giving you more control over your device’s functionality.
6. Reduce screen timeout time
Optimize Your Watch Screen’s Power Consumption
If you’ve ever raised your wrist to glance at the time only to find that the screen remains active for an extended period afterwards, you’re not alone. This phenomenon can lead to excessive battery drain, which may catch you off guard if you’re not accustomed to it.
To rectify this issue, you’ll want to adjust the settings so that the display dims promptly once your wrist returns to its original position.
Also: I changed 10 settings on my Android phone to drastically improve
battery life
Quickly Conserve Battery Life: Adjust Your Screen Timeout Setting
To optimize your device’s power consumption, follow these simple steps:
Tap the gear icon on your screen by swiping down to access the Settings.
Navigate to Display, then select Screen timeout from the options.
Choose either 15 seconds or 10 seconds to set a shorter screen shutdown duration. This will help save battery life and prolong your device’s usage time.
7. Reduce how many notifications you get
Streamline Your Wear OS Watch Experience: Limit Notifications
By default, your Wear OS watch is set to receive every notification from your phone on your wrist. However, this can quickly become overwhelming with constant vibrations and buzzes from social media apps. Moreover, these notifications can lead to excessive battery drain, as the energy required to power each alert adds up.
Fortunately, there’s an easy way to alleviate this issue: by limiting the number of notifications sent to your watch.
Silencing Notifications on Your Watch
To manage notifications on your watch, navigate to Settings > Apps & Notifications > Notifications, and select “Show All” to view the complete list of apps currently sending notifications.
Next, locate the app you’d like to silence and toggle its switch. This will prevent the app from sending notifications to your watch, but they’ll still be received on your phone, ensuring you remain informed.
By following these steps, you can easily control which apps send notifications to your watch, giving you greater flexibility over your notification preferences.
8. Turn off location and Wi-Fi when you don’t need them
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Staying Connected with Wear OS Watches
Wear OS watches rely on phone connectivity to access the internet, leveraging sensors to gather data and information. When your phone is out of reach, the watch utilizes Wi-Fi and GPS to maintain connectivity.
If you typically keep your phone nearby, there’s no compelling reason to enable Wi-Fi or location settings on your watch when not in use. Instead, disabling them can be a simple way to conserve extra battery life.
Disable Wi-Fi and Location Services on Your Device
To prevent your device from connecting to a network or sharing its location, you can easily toggle these features on or off.
Disable Wi-Fi
Navigate to Settings > Connectivity > Wi-Fi, then simply flip the toggle switch to turn off Wi-Fi.
Disable Location Services and GPS
Head to Settings > Location, and toggle off “Use location” to prevent your device from sharing its location with other apps or services.
9. Disable tilt-to-wake
Disable Automatic Time Display on Wear OS Watch for Better Battery Life
While disabling automatic time display is a last resort, it’s still a viable solution to conserve power on your Wear OS watch. To achieve this, you’ll need to adjust the settings to prevent the watch from using sensors to detect wrist movement.
As you use the feature throughout the day, it can lead to excessive battery consumption and leave you with limited juice left. If you’re curious about whether turning off this setting will result in improved battery life (users have reported varying results depending on their specific watch model), follow these steps:
Steps to Disable Automatic Time Display
Turn off automatic time display on your Wear OS watch to prevent it from using sensors to detect wrist movement and conserve power.
Also:Regret buying your smartwatch? Try these 8 tips before you ditch
it
Optimize Your Watch’s Power Consumption
To extend your watch’s battery life, navigate to the Settings app and explore the “Gestures” section. Within this menu, toggle off the “Tilt-to-Wake” option to prevent accidental device activation. For added efficiency, consider disabling “Touch to Wake” as well; however, you’ll need to rely on pressing the crown to activate the screen instead.
By implementing these adjustments, you can conserve power and avoid unintentionally waking your watch.
10. Use power-saving mode
Maximizing Wear OS Battery Life: The Power-Saving Mode
One effective way to conserve battery power on your Wear OS device is to activate Power Saver Mode, which can be found under different names depending on your watch model. This mode disables background processes, reduces screen brightness, minimizes animations, and slows down overall performance to extend the life of your battery.
When you’re in a tight spot and need your watch to last until the end of the day, or when you have a long day ahead with limited charging opportunities, Power Saver Mode is an excellent solution. It ensures that your device stays powered on for as long as possible, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to enjoy your smartwatch without worrying about running out of battery.
Enabling Power Saving Mode on Your Smartwatch
To conserve battery life and extend its usage, follow these simple steps:
On your watch, navigate to Settings > Battery, where you’ll find the “Battery saver” option. If you’re using a Galaxy Watch, this feature might be labeled as “Power saving” instead.
By enabling this mode, you can significantly reduce power consumption and enjoy a longer battery life on your smartwatch.
Featured
Independence Day Deals Galore!
As the United States celebrates its birthday on July 4th, numerous retailers are offering incredible deals on a wide range of products. From cutting-edge electronics to must-have gadgets, we’ve curated a list of the top 51 Independence Day sales for you to snag some amazing bargains.
TVs and Home Entertainment
- Get up to 50% off top-rated TVs from Samsung, LG, and Sony
- Snag a 4K smart TV with HDR and Wi-Fi connectivity for under $300
- Enjoy discounts on soundbars, speakers, and home theaters
Laptops and Computing
- Score deals on latest laptops from Apple, Dell, HP, and Lenovo
- Get up to $200 off top-rated gaming laptops
- Take advantage of discounts on tablets, e-readers, and Chromebooks
Apple Products
- Save up to 20% on the latest iPhone models
- Snag a discounted AirPods Pro or Beats headphones
- Enjoy deals on iPads, Apple Watches, and MacBooks
Gaming and Accessories
- Get exclusive discounts on gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox
- Score deals on gaming headsets, controllers, and games
- Take advantage of discounts on power banks, wireless charging pads, and more
Fashion and Home Goods
- Snag summer clothing sales from top brands like Nike, Adidas, and Levi’s
- Get up to 50% off home decor items, kitchenware, and bedding sets
- Enjoy deals on fragrances, skincare products, and makeup essentials
More Deals and Discounts
- Take advantage of buy-one-get-one-free offers on select items
- Enjoy free shipping and cashback rewards with participating retailers
- Get exclusive discounts with loyalty programs and membership cards
Stay tuned for more updates as new deals emerge! Happy shopping, and happy Independence Day!
Is Antivirus Software Still Worth the Cost in 2024?
As technology continues to evolve, many users wonder if they still need to invest in antivirus software. With the rise of free alternatives and built-in security features on devices, it’s natural to question whether paying for antivirus software is still necessary.
In recent years, the concept of antivirus software has undergone significant changes. While traditional antivirus programs were once essential for protecting against malware and viruses, modern operating systems have incorporated robust security measures. This raises the question: do you really need to pay for antivirus software in 2024?
Free Alternatives
One of the primary reasons people opt for free antivirus software is cost-effectiveness. Many reputable companies offer free versions of their antivirus programs, which can provide basic protection against malware and viruses. These alternatives often have limitations compared to paid versions, but they’re a viable option for those on a budget.
Built-in Security Features
Another factor contributing to the debate is the inclusion of built-in security features in modern operating systems. For instance, Windows Defender and macOS’s built-in antivirus software provide robust protection against malware and viruses without requiring additional purchases.
Paid Antivirus Software Benefits
While free alternatives and built-in security features are available, paid antivirus software still offers several benefits that make it worth the investment:
- Advanced Features: Paid antivirus programs often include advanced features like real-time monitoring, ransomware protection, and password management.
- Continuous Updates: Paid antivirus software typically receives regular updates to ensure users remain protected against emerging threats.
- 24/7 Support: Paid antivirus providers usually offer dedicated support teams for assistance with any issues or concerns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you need to pay for antivirus software in 2024 depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you’re looking for advanced features, continuous updates, and 24/7 support, paid antivirus software might be the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer basic protection, free alternatives and built-in security features can still provide sufficient coverage.
References
For more information on this topic, check out our article: Do You Still Need to Pay for Antivirus Software in 2024?
My Experience with the Microsoft Surface Pro 11: A Windows Expert’s Takeaways
I recently acquired the most affordable Surface Pro Copilot+ PC and have been using it for some time now. As a seasoned Windows expert, I’ve gathered valuable insights that I’d like to share with you.
1. Impressive Performance
The Surface Pro 11 copes remarkably well with demanding tasks, such as video editing and gaming. Its Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM ensure seamless performance, making it an excellent choice for professionals who require robust computing power.
2. Compact Design
One of the standout features of this device is its compact design. The Surface Pro 11’s sleek and lightweight build makes it easy to carry around, perfect for those who need a portable workstation. Its detachable keyboard and stylus also add to its versatility.
3. Seamless Integration with Windows 11
As a Windows expert, I was pleased to find that the Surface Pro 11 integrates seamlessly with Windows 11. The operating system’s intuitive interface and advanced features work harmoniously with the device’s hardware, providing an exceptional user experience.
Overall, my experience with the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 has been overwhelmingly positive. Its impressive performance, compact design, and seamless integration with Windows 11 make it an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and efficient PC.
Revolutionizing Mental Health Care: AI Tools to the Rescue
In an era where mental health is gaining increasing importance, therapists are facing a daunting task. With the ever-growing demand for their services, many professionals in the field are struggling with burnout. The good news is that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be about to ease this burden.
The Problem of Burnout
Therapists play a vital role in helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. However, this demanding work often takes a toll on their own well-being. Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced performance, is a growing concern among therapists. The consequences are severe, ranging from decreased job satisfaction to increased absenteeism.
AI-Assisted Therapy: A Game-Changer
The integration of AI in mental health care could be the answer to this predicament. AI tools can assist therapists in various ways, freeing up their time and energy for more complex and emotionally demanding tasks. For instance:
- Automated administrative tasks: AI can handle routine paperwork, allowing therapists to focus on patient care.
- Patient data analysis: AI-powered analytics can help identify patterns and trends in patient data, enabling therapists to make more informed decisions.
- Virtual therapy sessions: AI-powered chatbots or virtual assistants can provide emotional support and basic counseling services, reducing the workload of human therapists.
The Future of Mental Health Care
As AI continues to evolve, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in mental health care. By augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them, AI tools can help alleviate the burden on therapists, allowing them to provide more effective and compassionate care. The future of mental health care is promising, with AI-assisted therapy set to revolutionize the way we approach emotional wellness.
Conclusion
The integration of AI in mental health care offers a beacon of hope for therapists struggling with burnout. By automating administrative tasks, analyzing patient data, and providing virtual support services, AI tools can help ease the workload of professionals in the field. As we move forward, it is essential to prioritize therapist well-being and explore innovative solutions that promote emotional wellness and job satisfaction.