According to the source, they received this change with Play Store version 31.2.10-26 for their watch. Google has added this rollout in the Google System Updates for September, stating that version 32.0 or newer of the Play Store should bring the new experience. Perhaps, as noted by 9to5Google, who first reported this rollout, a server-side update will push the change once you’ve updated to a supported version of the Play Store. The changes are prominent from the very top. The search button now finds a pill-shaped house. It previously resided in a circular button. Below the search button is the “Explore all” section that features three app suggestions followed by a “See More” button that will let you see explore apps for your smartwatch. The suggestions feature the app’s name, icon, and Play Store rating for it. Next up is the “Recommended for you” section, once again with three suggestions and a button to see all recommended apps for you. “Now Trending” follows this section in an identical layout. Watch faces, Music streaming, Essential watch apps, and Healthy mind & body sections get larger cards, though. These cards will show related apps under the respective cards. The last three buttons are Open on phone, Manage apps and Settings.
The Google Play Store gets a new look on Wear OS
This redesign of the Play Store on Wear OS makes for a lengthy scrolling to reach Settings for checking app updates. While this isn’t ideal, Google is seemingly going this route of promoting apps directly on the home screen to increase downloads and engagement. The company is showing renewed interest in its watch platform after Samsung got onboard last year. These changes will likely drive developers’ interest in making apps for Wear OS. When Google announced this redesign, it also said that Wear OS will get offline Google Maps support. You can use Maps on your smartwatch independent of your phone. This support has yet to roll out to the public. But we should get it soon. In the meantime, you might want to check for an update for Play Store to receive the new experience.
