Google has rolled out Live Updates as a notification feature with Android 16, with plans to extend this functionality to various devices, particularly wearables powered by Wear OS.
For those unfamiliar, Live Updates are real-time notifications that provide ongoing status updates from apps on your device. They are particularly useful for tracking deliveries or ride-sharing services like Uber, allowing you to monitor live statuses directly on your screen. Additionally, these updates could be beneficial for navigation or for viewing the real-time travel status of someone who has shared their location with you.
At the recent Google I/O event, Google announced its intention to launch Live Updates on Wear OS in 2026. While specifics were limited, this feature is expected to be incredibly useful on smartwatches.
Envision having your food delivery or Uber ride en route, and instead of reaching for your phone, you can simply glance at your wrist for updates. Since smartwatches excel at providing quick, glanceable information, Live Updates will be a perfect addition.
In comparison, the Apple Watch has offered similar notifications, called Live Activities, since the release of watchOS 11 in September 2024.
// Android Authority