Google's Wear OS is likely to see strong growth in the global smartwatch market this year due to major Android brands such as OPPO releasing more advanced models. This is the OPPO Watch X. (Image source: OPPO)
2024 could be the year for Google's Wear OS to shine.
Counterpoint Research's global smartwatch tracker, the global High-Level Operating System (HLOS) smartwatch market is expected to grow 15% annually, driven by Android users buying either a Wear OS-powered smartwatch (outside China) or Huawei's HarmonyOS-powered smartwatch (in China).
The market research firm believes a shift in consumer buying patterns towards premium models, similar to how the global smartphone market is experiencing, is pushing first-time smartwatch owners or upgraders in the Android space to spend more for a better user experience.
Coupled with the availability of more advanced Wear OS smartwatches from brands like OnePlus, OPPO, and Xiaomi, Counterpoint Research estimates the Wear OS market share (outside China) to hit 27% this year.
While Samsung Galaxy Watches have been driving the adoption of Wear OS since 2021, other Android phone makers are racing to catch up.
OnePlus unveiled the OnePlus Watch 2 at Mobile World Congress 2024 in February, which comes with a premium, stainless steel chassis and 2.5D curved sapphire glass. OPPO held a global launch for its Watch X in March where we saw how the Chinese company combined fashion, fitness, and lifestyle features in one device.
Huawei is making a comeback on the global stage with a launch event on 7 May where it will be unveiling new wearables alongside laptops and tablets.
Source: Counterpoint Research
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