In a strategic shift, Google has ceased support for its Keep app on the Apple Watch, while simultaneously launching a dedicated Google Calendar app for the platform. This move reflects Google’s evolving approach to its app offerings on watchOS.
Google Keep’s Departure
Introduced to the Apple Watch in 2019, Google Keep provided users with a convenient tool for note-taking and list-making directly from their wrists. Despite its initial utility, the app received minimal updates over the years, lacking modern features and support for complications. Many users found it invaluable for quick access to notes, especially during tasks like shopping. However, with the release of version 2.2025.26200, Google has officially removed Keep from the Apple Watch, leaving users without a direct replacement for this functionality.
This decision comes ahead of Apple’s anticipated release of watchOS 26, which is set to include a native Notes app for the first time. While this addition may offer some relief, users who rely on Google’s cross-platform syncing capabilities may find the transition challenging. Notably, Google Keep remains available on Wear OS, indicating a continued focus on Google’s own wearable platform.
Introduction of Google Calendar on Apple Watch
In contrast to the removal of Keep, Google has expanded its watchOS presence by introducing a dedicated Google Calendar app for the Apple Watch. This new addition offers users a streamlined interface to view their upcoming events and tasks directly from their wrist.
The Google Calendar app displays a week’s worth of events and Google Tasks in a list format. Each entry is presented as a color-coded card, showing the scheduled time, event or task title, and associated location. Tapping on an item reveals additional details; however, the app currently does not support the creation or editing of events directly from the watch. Users are prompted to open the Google Calendar app on their iPhone for more comprehensive management.
To enhance user experience, Google has introduced two complications compatible with watchOS watch faces and the Smart Stack:
1. What’s Next Complication: Available in circular and rectangular formats, this complication displays the user’s upcoming appointment. Tapping it opens the Google Calendar app on the watch, providing details of the corresponding event.
2. Today’s Date Complication: This small circular complication shows the current day and date, serving as a quick launch point for the app.
The design and functionality of the Google Calendar app on Apple Watch closely mirror its counterpart on Wear OS, offering a consistent user experience across platforms. This addition joins a select group of Google apps available on Apple Watch, including Google Maps and YouTube Music.
Implications and User Considerations
Google’s decision to discontinue the Keep app on Apple Watch while introducing Google Calendar reflects a strategic realignment of its app offerings on watchOS. For users who relied on Google Keep for quick note access, this change may necessitate exploring alternative solutions, such as third-party note-taking apps or awaiting the release of Apple’s native Notes app in watchOS 26.
The introduction of Google Calendar provides a valuable tool for users seeking to manage their schedules directly from their wrist. However, the app’s current limitations, such as the inability to create or edit events from the watch, may prompt users to continue using their iPhones for more comprehensive calendar management.
Overall, these developments highlight the dynamic nature of app support and functionality on wearable devices, emphasizing the importance for users to stay informed about changes that may impact their daily workflows.