The new Google Android software is now available for ultra-modern "smart" watches and other wearable devices. Google made the announcement of their Android Wear operating system last Wednesday. It said that the Android OS is scheduled to work on a variety of smart watches, many of which are due for a late 2014 launch. Compared to Google Glass and other wearable devices, Android watches are more low-profile but also less functional. Like several smart phones that work on Android, Android smartwatches are also voice automated. The Android software features a virtual assistant known as Google Now that will adjust depending on the regular and preferred searches of the user so information is sorted out and prepared immediately.

It may be exciting to see the preliminary information and marketing of the Android software, but there are still questions that are as of yet unanswered. These include:

  • screen resolution and quality;
  • connectivity;
  • on-board memory;
  • Android handset support;
  • speed of Android Wear gadget;
  • battery life.

Some hardware companies like HTC, Samsung, Asus, LTC and Motorola have announced their support for Google Android Wear, which will likely power their devices.

Google is currently making the software accessible to computer programmers who are interested in making apps for the software. This will increase the usability of Android watches. According to reports, the first Android watch to release will be by Motorola Mobility, a branch of Google.

Alternatively, the most awaited smart watch from Apple, the iWatch, is scheduled for release later this year. It will run on Apple's operating system, which is currently being developed by the company. iWatch is expected to give a stiff competition to other smart watch manufacturers. Following are some of the iWatch's specifications so far:

  • 1.5 inch display;
  • complete iOS;
  • glass is plastic OLED (P-OLED);
  • biometrics and other sensors;
  • target battery life: 4-5 days.

With the most commonly used operating system, can Google expect to have a more universal appeal with its Android smartwatch?

The Android smartwatch by Google is expected to have a more universal appeal owing to the most common used OS on mobile gadgets all over the world. With Apple's iOS software coming second, more innovations are sure to ensue in the smartwatch market.