How to force a Google Pixel Watch update: This old Wear OS hack still works

Just tap it - give it a little tappy
Wareable wear os pixel watch update
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If you're looking to speed along the rollout of the latest Wear OS update to your Google Pixel Watch, you're in luck.

Google's debut smartwatch has just received its first big update since releasing back in October - but there's been plenty of users reporting that they've had to wait a pretty long time for it to land on their wrists. 

As discovered by the wily users over on Reddit, though, an old Wear OS 2 trick still works on the newer version of the software. At least on the Pixel Watch, that is. 

Below, we'll run you through the super simple steps to force this into action.

How to force an update to your Pixel Watch

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Before we get started here, let's assume that you've already tried to manually force a system update by heading to 'Settings' and then 'System Updates'. If not, try this first.

If you see a message appear that your device is up to date even though you know a new update should be rolling out, follow the steps below. 

1. Go to 'Settings' on your Pixel Watch - you can do this from the Quick Settings menu.

2. Scroll down to the bottom of the Settings list and choose 'System'.

3. Select 'System Updates'.

4. If you see that no update is ready to download, begin tapping the small watch icon at the top of the screen for roughly 30-60 seconds.

5. Eventually, this should force an update and, if you're running below 50% battery, it should pop up and prompt you to place your Pixel Watch on a charger. 

6. Once it's on a charger, it should begin downloading. 

TAGGED Wear OS

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Conor Allison

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Conor moved to Wareable Media Group in 2017, initially covering all the latest developments in smartwatches, fitness trackers, and VR. He made a name for himself writing about trying out translation earbuds on a first date and cycling with a wearable airbag, as well as covering the industry’s latest releases.

Following a stint as Reviews Editor at Pocket-lint, Conor returned to Wareable Media Group in 2022 as Editor-at-Large. Conor has become a wearables expert, and helps people get more from their wearable tech, via Wareable's considerable how-to-based guides. 

He has also contributed to British GQ, Wired, Metro, The Independent, and The Mirror. 


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