Google’s Wear OS 5.1 update, based on Android 15, introduces a suite of new features and improvements for Pixel Watch users. However, the rollout has been staggered, leading to varied user experiences.
Key Features of Wear OS 5.1:
1. Credential Manager Support: This feature offers a unified authentication solution, allowing sign-in flows using passwords, passkeys, and federated identities like Sign In with Google. User credentials are stored in a credential provider, ensuring synchronization across devices. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/19/wear-os-5-1-new-features/?utm_source=openai))
2. Watch Speaker Playback: On devices supporting media playback through the watch speaker, users can select this speaker as their preferred media output if the app integrates with the Wear Output Switcher. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/19/wear-os-5-1-new-features/?utm_source=openai))
3. Health and Safety Enhancements: The update introduces Loss of Pulse Detection in the U.S., menstrual health support via the on-watch Fitbit app, and an improved step count algorithm. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/04/pixel-watch-wear-os-5-1/?utm_source=openai))
4. Media Controls Upgrade: Users can now control audio content more efficiently, with control types tailored to the content being played, such as podcasts within YouTube Music. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/04/pixel-watch-wear-os-5-1/?utm_source=openai))
Rollout Timeline and Challenges:
The Wear OS 5.1 update began its rollout on March 4, 2025, initially targeting the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi variants of the Pixel Watch 2 and 3. The LTE models and the original Pixel Watch received the update starting March 18, 2025. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/04/pixel-watch-wear-os-5-1/?utm_source=openai), [9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/18/pixel-watch-lte-wear-os-5-1-update/?utm_source=openai))
However, the phased rollout has led to some users not receiving the update simultaneously. Google acknowledged that certain devices did not receive the original March update and plans to roll out an update in the coming weeks.
User Feedback and Issues:
Post-update, some users reported issues such as delayed notifications and problems modifying or adding watch faces from the Pixel Watch mobile app. Google addressed these concerns in the April 2025 update, resolving the notification delays and watch face modification issues.
Despite these fixes, the staggered rollout has left some users awaiting the update. Google has stated that the rollout will continue over the next few weeks, depending on carrier and device type.
Conclusion:
The Wear OS 5.1 update brings significant enhancements to the Pixel Watch, focusing on user authentication, media control, and health features. However, the phased rollout and subsequent issues have led to a mixed reception among users. Google’s commitment to addressing these challenges indicates ongoing efforts to improve the user experience.
