How to update Wear OS apps

Samsung Galaxy Watch FE with Galaxy S24 FE
(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

When you update Wear OS apps, your wearable gets the latest features and security patches. It's a straightforward process that can be done even if you're in a hurry. With a few taps here and there, you can quickly complete it.

You don't need to have one of the best Android phones since it's done directly on your wearable. The process may feel familiar from updating your apps on your phone, but this time, it'll be on your watch. Here are the steps to follow!

How to update an app on Wear OS

1. With your smartwatch connected to your phone or Wi-Fi, press the side button to open the app drawer.

2. Scroll through the list of apps and select Play Store.

3. Once the Play Store has loaded, scroll down and tap on Manage Apps.

4. You'll see the Update all button at the top if you have any available updates and the number of pending updates.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

5. If you don't want to update all the apps, you can also choose one and tap the Update button for that specific app.

When the app is done updating, you'll see a button to open it and one less app to update from the list. You can also swipe up from the watch face to see if there are any pending update notifications. You'll see how many updates are pending and options to clear or update them all.

How to enable auto-update on Wear OS

Alternative update option by swiping up from the bottom of watch face

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The advantage of enabling auto-update is that you don't have to waste time checking for any pending updates. When you enable this option, your apps automatically update when your Wear OS watch is connected to Wi-Fi or charging. You can turn on the option by going to:

1. Open Settings.

2. Toggle on Auto-update apps.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

What if I'm having trouble updating the Wear OS apps?

Ensure you have a stable Internet connection and that the Bluetooth connection works if your apps are not updating. You can also try updating the version of Wear OS, which could have a fix for the glitch that's preventing you from updating. You can check by going to:

1. Settings.

2. System.

3. About.

4. System Updates.

Keep your apps fresh

Thousands of apps are available for Wear OS watches, and even the best Wear OS apps will need updating from time to time. Thankfully, these apps are available on the latest and greatest Wear OS smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and even on the best cheap Android smartwatches

Some apps will be updated frequently, while others will be updated less frequently. Regardless of the update cycle for your favorite apps, you'll be ready when the update is.

Judy Sanhz

Judy is a tech geek who loves technology. She has been writing about tech for over a decade, covering various devices and programs. She stays updated on the latest gadgets, upgrades, features, and news. She aims to make complicated tech information easy for everyone to read. When she's not writing about tech, she's watching Indiana Jones for the 100th time.