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Technical Sideloading Guide for Gemini on WearOS

If Gemini isn't available for your WearOS watch through official channels, sideloading via ADB may be an option.


Prerequisites

Gather these requirements before attempting sideloading.

  • Developer Mode: Enable developer options on your watch: Settings System About tap Build number 7 times.

  • ADB Setup: Install Android Debug Bridge from the Android SDK platform tools on your computer.

  • WiFi Debugging: Enable ADB debugging and Debug over WiFi in your watch's developer options.

  • Compatible APK: Obtain the Gemini APK from a legitimate source like APK Mirror. Verify it matches your device architecture (ARM64).


Basic Installation Steps

Follow these steps to sideload Gemini.

  • Connect via ADB: Run adb connect [watch-ip]:5555 using the IP shown in your watch's developer options.

  • Verify Connection: Run adb devices to confirm your watch appears in the list.

  • Install APK: Run adb install gemini.apk to install the application.

  • Grant Permissions: Run adb shell pm grant com.google.android.apps.bard android.permission.RECORD_AUDIO for microphone access.


Post-Installation Configuration

Additional steps may be needed after installation.

  • Server Activation: Gemini requires server-side activation even after successful installation. This may not work in unsupported regions.

  • Assistant Setup: Go to Settings Google Digital assistant to configure Gemini as your default.

  • Test Functionality: Try basic commands like Set a timer for 1 minute to verify the installation works.


Important Limitations

Understand these limitations before sideloading.

  • No Guarantee: Sideloaded Gemini may not function correctly without server-side activation.

  • Update Issues: Sideloaded apps don't receive automatic updates. You'll need to manually update.

  • Regional Blocks: If Gemini isn't available in your region, sideloading the APK alone won't bypass regional restrictions.

  • System Updates: Future WearOS updates may remove or break sideloaded installations.


Removal and Rollback

If sideloading causes issues, you can remove Gemini.

  • Uninstall: Run adb uninstall com.google.android.apps.bard to remove the app.

  • Clear Data: If issues persist, go to Settings Apps Google Clear cache on your watch.

  • Factory Reset: As a last resort, factory reset your watch through Settings System Reset.


See Also: Gemini Compatibility Guide|Regional Availability Issues|How to Set Up Gemini on Smartwatch