LG Watch Sport Designed to Take Advantage of Android Wear 2.0

On Feb. 8, Google announced the rollout of its wearable operating system, Android Wear 2.0. Google also announced it had partnered with LG to develop the first two Android Wear 2.0 devices, the LG Watch Style and the LG Watch Sport. While both devices include a number of useful features, the LG Watch Sport is the more sophisticated option of the pair, offering wireless connectivity over LTE networks. So this slide show will focus on the Sport model. In addition, the LG Watch Sport features a 1.4-inch round display, is certified for water- and dust-resistance and comes with near-field communication technology for mobile payment applications It supports Google’s mobile apps including Google Play and can exchange data with Android and Apple iOS devices.

Arguably the biggest feature in the LG Watch Sport is its operating system. Android Wear 2.0 was unveiled at Google I/O in May but didn’t find its way to devices until now. It comes with a built-in app marketplace, an always-on watch face and a customizable home screen.

The LG Watch Sport comes with a round display measuring 1.4 inches. According to LG, the display has a resolution of 480-by-480 and 348 pixels per inch, which puts it among the best in the smartwatch market.

The smartwatch comes with both WiFi and LTE connectivity, allowing users to be productive on the go. The feature will enable users to download apps directly to their devices wherever they might be; absent LTE support, that wouldn’t be possible.

The LG Watch Sport comes with a near-field communications chip, making it possible to complete mobile payments from the smartwatch via Google’s Android Pay. Users can hold the device up to a payment terminal and send payments wirelessly.

LG’s smartwatch fully supports Google’s mobile apps, including Google Play Music. It supports music streaming and lets users sync playlists directly from the watch or stream them over the internet to Google Play Music.

Thanks to an expanded Google Fit app, the LG Watch Sport comes with multiple fitness-tracking features. Users will be able to see how far they’ve traveled, track their steps and calories and more. The smartwatch also will recommend ways to improve a workout.

The LG Watch Sport supports wireless charging. The smartwatch ships with a charging base that charges the battery when the watch is placed on it. Users can interact with the device’s software while it’s charging.

LG isn’t skimping on protective features in the Watch Sport. The device has a rating of IP68, meaning it’s both water- and dust-resistant. According to LG, the smartwatch can be immersed in nearly 5 feet of water for 30 minutes with no damage.

The LG Watch Sport can exchange data with Android or Apple iOS smartphones. Users need either a handset running Android 4.3 or newer or an Apple iPhone running iOS 9 or newer.

The LG Watch Sport is slated to be available Feb. 10. The device will be available in AT&T and Verizon stores, as well as the Google Store and will retail for $349.