Google pauses Wear OS 5 rollout to Pixel Watch 1 and 2 after 'blank screen' reports

Google has paused the rollout of Wear OS 5 to the Pixel Watch 1 and 2 due to reports of a “blank screen” issue. This problem has affected some users since the September update. The rollout was halted on September 26, 2024, to address the issue.

In a community announcement, Google acknowledged the problem and assured users they are “actively working on a resolution” and plan to resume the update later this year. However, no specific date has been provided for when Wear OS 5 will be available again for these devices.

For users who have already experienced the blank screen issue, Google recommends performing a factory reset. This process, while effective, erases all data on the watch, requiring users to set up their devices from scratch. You can check out the official support guides on fixing a blank or frozen watch and resetting the Pixel Watch if needed.

Wear OS 5 has new features including a grid-based app launcher, the ability to select media output devices, and an improved Watch Face Format. It also detects screenshots for privacy and security and offers updated Health Services for detailed running metrics and improved fitness tracking. You can check out more details here.

That said, the delay also raises questions about the impact on future updates, including the October security patch. It is unclear whether Pixel Watch 1 and 2 devices already running Wear OS 5 will receive future updates on time or whether all updates are on hold until a full solution is rolled out.

In the meantime, at least you now have a new notification feature that reminds you when your watch is fully charged. We’ll keep track of the situation and update the article if and when there are any further developments.

Featured image credits: aroopg / Reddit