Last updated: August 12th, 2026 at 07:35 UTC+02:00
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It improves the tracking accuracy for your cycling and running workouts.
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Max Jambor / SamMobile
GPS tracking performance for outdoor sports and workouts is already pretty good on recent Galaxy Watches. However, accuracy could get even better thanks to a new app update from Google. If you cycle or run outdoors, this update is something to be excited about.
Google has released a new update (v26.31) to Google Play Services, and it allows Wear OS devices like Galaxy Watches to process raw location data server-side, improving overall GPS accuracy for outdoor workouts like cycling, running, and walking.
However, this feature will work directly on the device only for Galaxy Watches with cellular connectivity. For models without cellular connectivity, improved GPS data will be delivered only after reconnecting to Wi-Fi or a paired smartphone.
The update also brings account management improvements for Google and third-party apps, along with bug fixes for diagnostics and system management.
Alongside Google Play Services, Google has also released an update to the Play Store. On foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, it allows you to open app details pages from the top charts page.
First Samsung device: T100
Asif is a computer engineer turned technology journalist. He has been using Samsung phones since 2004, and his current smartphone is the Galaxy S23 Ultra. He loves headphones, mechanical keyboards, and PC hardware. When not writing about technology, he likes watching crime and science fiction movies and TV shows.
