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WearOS 5 Release Timeline: When Will Your Watch Get Updated?

WearOS 5 deployment follows a manufacturer-specific timeline that varies by device, region, and carrier partnerships. Understanding the rollout schedule helps set realistic expectations for when your watch will receive the update.


Google Pixel Watch Timeline

Google maintains the fastest WearOS 5 deployment because they control the entire software development and testing process.

  • Pixel Watch 3: Ships with WearOS 5 (October 2024).

  • Pixel Watch 2: WearOS 5 rollout began November 2024.

  • Pixel Watch (1st gen): December 2024 - January 2025 update window.


Samsung Galaxy Watch Timeline

Samsung's WearOS 5 deployment follows their traditional testing approach, requiring extensive One UI Watch integration testing and creating 2-4 month delays.

  • Galaxy Watch 7: Pre-installed WearOS 5 (August 2024 launch).

  • Galaxy Watch 6 Series: January-March 2025 expected rollout.

  • Galaxy Watch 5 Series: March-May 2025 projected timeline.

  • Galaxy Watch 4 Series: Under evaluation, potential summer 2025 release if approved.


Third-Party Manufacturer Timelines

TicWatch Update Schedule

Mobvoi typically follows 3-6 month post-Google release timing.

  • TicWatch Pro 5: Expected Q1 2025 release.
  • TicWatch E3: Q2 2025 if compatibility confirmed.
  • Older TicWatch models: No confirmed timeline.

Other Manufacturers

  • OnePlus Watch 2: Expected early 2025.
  • Fossil Group: Historically inconsistent, may not provide updates.
  • Casio, TAG Heuer: Typically 6-12 month delays for premium watches.

Regional Rollout Patterns

  • United States: First rollout region for most manufacturers.

  • Canada, Australia: 1-2 weeks after US deployment.

  • Western Europe: 2-4 weeks after initial US release.

  • Eastern Europe, Latin America: 1-2 months after primary markets.

  • Asia-Pacific: Varies by country, typically 2-8 weeks delay.

Carrier-Dependent Models

LTE-enabled watches face additional delays due to carrier certification requirements. WiFi-only models receive updates faster without carrier approval requirements.


Manual Update Methods

Force Update Check

Settings System About System updates Check for update

Reset and Re-pair Method

Sometimes resolves stuck update processes with highest success rate.

  1. Factory reset your watch: Settings System Disconnect & reset
  2. Re-pair with your phone
  3. Check for updates immediately after setup
  4. Updates often appear during fresh device initialization

Developer Options Method

  1. Go to Settings About Build number
  2. Tap build number 7 times to enable developer options
  3. In Developer options, look for "Automatic system updates"
  4. Enable and restart the watch

Preparing for WearOS 5

  • Free up 2GB+ storage space by removing unused apps and music.

  • Ensure 70%+ battery charge before starting the update.

  • Connect to stable WiFi rather than relying on Bluetooth tethering.

  • Keep your phone nearby throughout the update process.

  • Disable Do Not Disturb to ensure update notifications appear.


Update Troubleshooting

  • "Update failed" errors: Usually resolved by restarting both watch and phone.

  • Stuck at download percentage: Cancel and retry after 30 minutes.

  • Installation loops: Factory reset may be required in persistent cases.


Why Updates Take So Long

  • Hardware integration testing ensures sensors and processors work correctly.

  • Custom UI overlay testing verifies manufacturer-specific interfaces.

  • Battery optimization validation prevents post-update performance issues.

  • Carrier certification for LTE models adds regulatory approval steps.

  • Regional compliance testing ensures local law and regulation adherence.


See Also: Device Compatibility|New Features|Setup Troubleshooting