Microsoft's Outlook app now supports Android Wear devices after the latest update rolled out on Google Play, and follows Apple Watch availability. This allows users of Google's OS to check e-mails and send pre-set messages from their wrist wearables without using their smartphones or tablets. Microsoft reports the newest update will also allow voice dictation to reply to emails.
The app's update ups the version number to 2.1.0, according to Android Headlines. It is available on the Google Play Store for mobile devices that run at least Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich.
Android Wear owners could already get notifications from Microsoft Outlook from their smartwatches. However, it was not very reliable so official Android Wear support will be a major improvement.
Android's mobile OS has a big lead in the worldwide smartphone market. However, it has not competed well against Apple's WatchOS that holds over 61 percent of the global smart watch market.
Still, some big developers are noticing that the platform could have potential in the near future. This could help Android become more competitive against Apple Watch,
The smartwatch market is still new. However, it could grow in popularity and become mainstream if big-name app developers release software for the wearables.
Microsoft rolled out Outlook to Apple Watch last year. When combined with the high-quality iOS companion client it was even a big improvement to Apple's mail program, according to ZDNet.
In related news, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently shared details about the Apple Watch 2 that is set to launch this year. Kuo reports that the smartwatch will include better specs but will not include major design changes such as a thinner profile until the 2017 version
The Taiwan-based analyst claims that this year's model will be like an "s" upgrade for the iPhone. In other words, it will focus on the device's internal components instead of its external look.
Kuo predicts that just 7.5 million Apple Watch units will ship this year due to the new market for wearable devices. He also believes the company shipped 10.6 million units last year although Apple has released no official sales figures.
Here's a review of Android Wear on iOS: