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The best smartwatches can broadly be split into two camps. On one side, we have the Apple Watch – tethered to iPhone users, but vastly popular nonetheless. On the other, we have watches powered by Google's Wear OS platform – generally Android phone users, although models with Wear OS are often more accessible.
That binary setup hasn't stopped manufacturers from trying to use their own proprietary systems though. I've recently been using the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro, which uses Xiaomi's MIUI Watch OS, for example.
The S1 Pro is a fantastic smartwatch, but it does fall just short of being an absolute standout due to the limitations of the operating system. It might not be a problem for some, but the lack of third-party apps does feel restrictive – particularly if you're used to an Apple Watch, or the like.
That might not be an issue much longer, though. According to 9to5Google, Xiaomi are working on another watch release, which would run on Wear OS 3. Details are relatively light, but the report suggests it would continue to use the Mi Fitness app to connect with your phone, but change out the MIUI OS for Google's alternative.
It's a really exciting prospect. One of my biggest gripes with other smartwatches is the dreadful battery life, which seems to have become a very unwelcome industry standard. Xiaomi seem to have bucked this trend, and while there's no telling how the move to Wear OS would affect that, I'm hopeful that any release would keep at least some of the longevity of other Xiaomi watches.
If it can – and I appreciate, that is a big if – we could be looking at the best smartwatch on the market. Models like the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 have won over fans for their ease of use and interconnectivity, but they really do fall apart at the seams when it comes to battery life. Put a similar feature set in a watch that can keep going like the Duracell bunny? No brainer.
There's no word on exactly when this release can be expected, but the report did say it was expected in 2023.
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.
Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.
He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.
Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.