Google Pixel Watch to Get Major Gesture Overhaul Inspired by Samsung & Apple

Smartwatch users especially value one aspect: convenience. They want an effortless way to get key information, use features of their favorite apps, and even control other devices from their wrist. Google’s Pixel Watch series are undoubtedly among the best options out there. However, it has long lagged behind competitors like Apple and Samsung in offering intuitive, non-touch gestures. Well, it seems that’s about to change thanks to new hands-free gestures that Google is working on for Google Pixel Watch devices.

Recent code discoveries by Android Authority within the latest Pixel Watch app update strongly suggest Google is preparing a massive overhaul of its interaction model. The company could draw inspiration from direct rivals while also reviving a popular feature from the old Android Wear era. The focus is on bridging the gap and giving users meaningful ways to control their watch when their hands are busy.

Hands-free gestures are coming to Google Pixel Watch

The most significant addition coming to the Pixel Watch is the Double Pinch gesture. This move, which allows users to perform actions with a simple, subtle movement of their fingers, is nearly identical to gesture systems already proven effective on rival smartwatches.

Code snippets confirm this double pinch will be a multipurpose tool. It will allow users to answer calls, interact with notifications, take photos, and more. This simple but sophisticated interaction is pretty useful for moments when you can’t touch the screen—like when carrying groceries, exercising, or cooking. It would be a massive step forward in convenience for eligible Pixel smartwatches.

Beyond catching up, Google is also listening to longtime users by reviving an old favorite: Wrist Turn gestures. These gestures were a feature in early versions of Android Wear. However, they just quietly vanished during the platform’s transition to Wear OS 3.

Google seems to be bringing back the most reliable parts of this system. The new wrist-turn functionality will let users handle simple but useful tasks. The list includes silencing calls or closing alerting notifications through a quick, simple flick of the wrist.

A major step forward

The addition of both double-pinch and wrist-turn gestures will be a big win for Pixel Watch users. Once they arrive, the gestures will make the wearable feel like a natural extension of the body. They will add to convenient existing features like the ‘Raise to Talk’ integration with Gemini. The goal is to reduce the friction involved in managing daily alerts and media controls.

The new Google Pixel Watch gestures are currently only visible in leaked code and are not yet active for users. Let’s hope it doesn’t take long for Google to roll them out for all users.

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