Google Launches Gemini AI on Wear OS and Improves Circle to Search with AI Mode

Google has announced a major update for Wear OS smartwatch users: its powerful Gemini AI assistant is now rolling out to more devices, alongside significant upgrades to its innovative Circle to Search feature. These advancements aim to make AI-powered assistance more accessible and intuitive across Android platforms.

Gemini Comes to Wear OS Watches

After months of anticipation, Gemini is now available on Wear OS 4+ smartwatches from popular brands including Pixel, Samsung, OPPO, OnePlus, and Xiaomi. This rollout is a key step in Google’s broader plan to replace Google Assistant with Gemini across all devices, offering users a smarter and more conversational AI experience.

• To activate Gemini, users can say “Hey Google,” press and hold the side button, or tap the Gemini app icon on their watch.
• Gemini answers practical questions—like “For how long should I roast sliced vegetables, and at what temperature?”—and keeps users informed about daily needs, for instance, “Do I need an umbrella today?”
• It can help manage tasks across apps, such as summarizing the latest email or adding upcoming events to your calendar.
• Users can also store reminders or important details, like remembering a parking spot or setting a shopping reminder after work.

Circle to Search Gets Smarter with AI Mode

Google’s Circle to Search, launched last year, lets users search for anything by circling, highlighting, scribbling, or tapping on their screen. The latest update brings AI Mode directly into this feature, unlocking deeper, more interactive search experiences—especially useful for complex topics or gaming-related queries.

• After starting a visual search, users now see an AI Overview in the results.
• By scrolling to the bottom and tapping “dive deeper with AI Mode,” they can ask follow-up questions or explore more details without leaving the app.
• AI Mode is now accessible in Google Lens through the Google app on both Android and iOS, currently available in the U.S. and India.
• Gaming support has been added—users can now use Circle to Search during mobile games to identify characters or find strategies instantly.

Improved AI Overviews and Visuals

Google has also enhanced the formatting of AI Overviews in search results. Responses are now more readable, with clearer breakdowns and additional visuals, making it easier to digest key information quickly.

What This Means for Users and Businesses

These updates underline Google’s commitment to integrating advanced AI across its platforms, streamlining daily tasks, and offering more powerful, accessible tools for both users and businesses. With Gemini and enhanced search features, Wear OS and Android users can expect more personalized, efficient, and engaging experiences.

References

• Google is bringing Gemini to Wear OS smartwatches and Google TV
• Google introduces Circle to Search: A new way to search from anywhere on Android using gestures
• Google is replacing Google Assistant with Gemini
• Google's AI Mode rolls out to US, will add support for deeper research, comparison shopping, and more
• Google brings Gemini to Wear OS watches, adds AI Mode to Circle to Search