Google's Wear OS is getting a new 'Find people' app, but it's a bit of a letdown. The app is a basic radar-like feature that allows you to locate people who have granted you access to their location. However, the lack of a map view and the unclear behavior of the app raise questions about its usefulness. The app's design and functionality seem to be a step back from what we've seen with other location-sharing features, like Apple's AirTag. Personally, I think this app could have been more innovative and user-friendly. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a more integrated and intuitive location-sharing experience on Wear OS. However, the current implementation feels like a half-baked solution. In my opinion, Google could have taken a more comprehensive approach to location sharing, especially given the recent success of Apple's AirTag. From my perspective, the app's limitations suggest that Google is still struggling to find its footing in the location-sharing space. One thing that immediately stands out is the app's reliance on a server-side update to add a map view, which is a common issue with Wear OS apps. This raises a deeper question about the platform's overall maturity and its ability to deliver a seamless user experience. A detail that I find especially interesting is the app's icon, which is a simple green radar design. This design choice seems to be a nod to the app's functionality, but it also feels a bit generic and uninspired. What this really suggests is that Google is still trying to find its voice in the wearables market, and the 'Find people' app is a small step in that direction. However, it's a step that could have been taken further, with more thought given to the user experience and the app's overall design. In conclusion, while the 'Find people' app is a welcome addition to Wear OS, it's a bit of a disappointment in terms of innovation and user-friendliness. Google has the potential to do better, and I hope that future updates will address some of the current limitations of the app.
