Google’s April 2025 Pixel Watch Update Fixes Step Count Issue and Adds Wear OS 5.1 Features

Google is rolling out a fresh update for Pixel Watch users today, marking the arrival of Wear OS 5.1 in the April 2025 update. This update, based on Wear OS 5.1 and Android 15, is now available for all users with Pixel Watch 1, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3 devices. While the update brings several important changes, including bug fixes and feature enhancements, the most notable change is the update to the step algorithm that some users have reported issues with.

As part of the April update, users will receive the latest security patch, ensuring their devices are up-to-date with the latest protections. However, if you’ve been holding off on updates or haven’t yet received the March OTA update, this new release will address those missing patches, but with a few exceptions.

Fixing the Step Algorithm: The Key Change in the April 2025 Update

A significant change comes in the form of a fix for the step count issue that many users reported after the March 2025 update. Some Pixel Watch owners experienced an unexpected increase in their step count under certain scenarios, such as when walking with a stroller, pushing a shopping cart, or hiking with poles. To resolve this, Google has decided to revert the step algorithm enhancements to the original version, which should address the problem of inflated step counts.

This update is crucial for users who rely on accurate fitness tracking for their daily routines or health goals. The new algorithm fixes aim to ensure that your step data is more accurate across different activities. However, if you were hoping for the previous enhancements that aimed to improve accuracy during those unique activities, they are no longer part of the update.

What’s New for Users on Older Software Versions

For users still on the November 2024 release (which was based on Wear OS 5 and Android 14), this update is especially important. It brings the March 2025 changes, including the move to Wear OS 5.1 and additional bug fixes. However, like the users on the March release, these users will also see the removal of the step algorithm improvements that were previously introduced in an attempt to better track steps during activities like jogging with a stroller or pushing a shopping cart.

For those who did not get the March OTA update earlier this year, today’s April release is bringing them up to speed, but with the aforementioned step algorithm fix.

How to Update Your Pixel Watch to Wear OS 5.1

The update process for Wear OS 5.1 is simple, and you can start the download directly from your Pixel Watch. Here’s how:

Go to Settings on your Pixel Watch.

Navigate to System > System updates.

Tap the “Your watch is up to date” screen several times to initiate the download.

For those looking to speed up the process, Google suggests disabling Bluetooth and switching to Wi-Fi to force a quicker update download.

 The Pixel Watch Continues to Improve with Wear OS 5.1

With Wear OS 5.1 on the horizon, Pixel Watch users can expect improved functionality and more accurate data tracking. While the step count algorithm fix is the highlight of the April 2025 update, this release also addresses bugs and improves system performance across the Pixel Watch 1, 2, and 3 models. If you're one of the many users who had issues with inflated step counts in earlier updates, the latest OTA should offer a much more reliable experience.

Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness tracking or simply keep your Pixel Watch running smoothly with the latest updates, this Wear OS 5.1 update is a step in the right direction for Google’s smartwatch line. Keep an eye out for the update and get the most out of your device with these improvements!