Google Maps's Wear OS Tile now lets you access map

Google Maps's Wear OS Tile now lets you access map
27 Apr 2024

Google Maps has updated its Wear OS Tile, allowing users to instantly access the map.

This follows a significant enhancement last month that included public transit directions.

The previous version featured a "Search" button below the Home and Work shortcuts, which simply opened the app.

Now, in the latest version (11.124.0702.W), this "Search" button has been replaced with a "Map" button.

Direct access to map view
User experience

The new "Map" button on the Google Maps Wear OS Tile offers users direct access to the map view.

By tapping on locations, users can view basic listings, and selecting a transit stop reveals upcoming departure times.

The map view also features a blue dot representing the user's current location, acting as a basic compass. This feature is especially useful for Pixel Watch users.

To return to the main feed, simply tap 'x' on the left.

Other Wear OS Tiles also get changes
Fact

The latest update is part of broader revamp that also includes changes to other Wear OS Tiles. For instance, update to Google Contacts Wear OS Tile has changed "Contacts" button at the bottom to feature a gray background, potentially indicating future theming with Dynamic Color.