Android Wear 2.x versus Full Android 5.1 ?

[kramer5150]

So now that the AW 2.X devices have Playstore on them and can direct-download apps, what are the significant differences between AW and "Full" android 5.1 ?

The main differences are the apps available... correct?

My impression is AW apps are generally smaller and more compact, taking up less memory... correct?

 

[B. Diddy]

I've never used a non-Android Wear smartwatch before, but I would think that the main difference is that AW apps are designed and optimized for the watch form factor (and also sync with your phone more seamlessly), while non-Android Wear watches require very specific apps designed for that watch (typically from the watch manufacturer), since it's essentially a mini-phone running 5.1 strapped onto your wrist. But I could be wrong -- let's see if anyone with one of those kinds of watches can weigh in.

 

[kramer5150]

Thats what I was thinking too... but for the basics like gmail and android messages, you just download those apps directly... and they just run on the 5.1 device. Correct?... or do they still need a "go between" app of some sort?