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What you need to know
Owners of Pixel Watch models 1, 2, and 3 can expect to receive an update to Wear OS 5.1, version BP1A.250305.019.W8, in the upcoming weeks. The rollout will be staggered based on device and carrier. According to Google, the recent enhancements to the step-counting algorithm resulted in significantly inflated step counts and the company will revert to the previous version of the algorithm. Users still on the November 2024 security patch will finally receive the improvements and bug fixes from March and the beginning of April after a prolonged wait.
This comes after a problematic March update that Google aims to resolve by unifying Pixel Watch users under one updated version of Wear OS 5.1 by late April while discontinuing a feature that has been underperforming.
The March update introduced various enhancements, including a new “enhanced step count algorithm,” which aimed to improve tracking in challenging circumstances, such as when using assistive devices like walkers or strollers.
However, this rollout brought about multiple issues, particularly on the Pixel Watch 3, leading to problems like notification delays, battery drain, and unduly high step counts. Moreover, many users reported that they did not receive the update at all.
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In early April, a corrective update was released to address certain issues related to battery life and notifications. The upcoming update, identified as “BP1A.250305.019.W8,” aims to rectify the step-counting inaccuracies by reverting to the original algorithm.
Many users, including myself, anticipate that the April update will arrive in the next few weeks. (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)
Those who are still on the original November 2024 patch will also receive the new features introduced in March 2025, including menstrual tracking through Fitbit, upgraded media controls, advancements in developer tools, interface modifications, an auto bedtime mode for the Pixel Watch 2, and important security fixes. The updated step-counting algorithm, however, will not be part of this rollout.
Google assures users that notifications will be sent when the update is available. For those eager to check immediately, they can place their Pixel Watch on the charger, navigate to Settings > System > System Update, and quickly tap the screen for about 15 to 30 seconds to see if the update is available.
Previous experiences with Pixel Watch updates suggest that older and LTE models may take additional time to receive the April 2025 Wear OS patch.
A disappointing Pixel Watch reversion
Recently, I conducted a personal assessment of the step-count accuracy on my Pixel Watch 3 while using trekking poles. (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)
Just last week, I attempted to test the new enhanced step-count algorithm, unaware that many users experienced significant glitches, including erroneous steps being counted. It was surprising to learn that numerous users had their step counts soar into the tens of thousands or recorded movements while the watch was not worn.
Approaching my review with a healthy skepticism regarding Google’s assertions of “exceptional accuracy,” I rigorously tested the watch.
The results were not entirely ideal; in every instance, my recorded step count fell short of reality. After completing 10,000 steps, the watch logged 100 steps less, registered 143 steps fewer during hilly hikes with my trekking poles, and was off by a few hundred steps while maneuvering through a store with a shopping cart.
The algorithm showed potential but indicated that it still needed refinement, as it performed better at recognizing unusual movements compared to other brands that primarily track natural arm swings as steps. I valued Google’s effort to incorporate scenarios applicable to all users, including those who may not be fully able-bodied.
Given this, it is regrettable that Google has chosen to revert to the previous algorithm, which is generally recognized as less effective for standard step tracking. I sought clarification from a Google representative about specific scenarios causing issues and the decision to revert instead of resolve the algorithm; updates will be provided if more information is available.
It is my hope that in the future, Google will be able to reinstate the enhanced algorithm, allowing for accurate step recognition while mitigating instances of false positive readings.
Source
www.androidcentral.com