The open-source AsteroidOS project has announced version 2.0, a Linux-based operating system for smartwatches that emphasizes privacy and extends device lifespans. This release introduces always-on display support, performance improvements, and compatibility with more watch models. It aims to provide an alternative to proprietary platforms like Wear OS and watchOS.
AsteroidOS, a community-driven, Linux-based operating system for smartwatches, has reached its 2.0 milestone after eight years of development. Built on OpenEmbedded with a Qt/QML user interface and BlueZ for Bluetooth, the OS prioritizes privacy by avoiding telemetry and cloud services, promotes environmental responsibility by reviving outdated devices, and encourages user contributions through accessible code in QML/Qt, JavaScript, or C.
The release, announced recently, includes several key enhancements. New features comprise an always-on display, tilt-to-wake functionality, and palm-to-sleep gesture. A heart rate monitor app and initial step counting support have been added, alongside a compass app, Bluetooth HID and audio capabilities, a flashlight app, and a game called Diamonds, inspired by 2048.
Design updates feature a redesigned QuickPanel replacing the old QuickSettings menu, with customizable toggles, app shortcuts, and a power-off timer. Seven new app launcher styles are available, along with a Nightstand mode for bedside use during charging. The watchface gallery now previews faces with selected wallpapers, and performance has improved through optimized rendering, smoother animations, better battery life, and stability fixes. The system font is now Noto Sans for multilingual support, with Twemoji for color emojis and over 20 new languages added, totaling 49.
App improvements include a more legible Weather app, a background-running Timer optimized for round displays, an enhanced Calculator layout, and music volume control. The Android companion app, AsteroidOS Sync, gains call detection, a stable Bluetooth library, and custom API key support for weather. Integration extends to Gadgetbridge, SailfishOS, and Ubuntu Touch via Telescope.
Support expands to 15 additional models since version 1.0, including Fossil Gen 4, 5, and 6; Huawei Watch 1 and 2; TicWatch Pro 3; OPPO Watch; and Polar M600. Partial support covers devices like Casio WSD-F10 and F20, LG Watch Urbane 2, first-generation Moto 360, and Samsung Gear 2 and Gear Live. Many of these watches lack ongoing manufacturer support, allowing AsteroidOS to restore functionality.
As the team states, "AsteroidOS 2.0 has arrived, bringing major features and improvements gathered during its journey through community space." Source code is available on GitHub under licenses including GNU GPL 2 and 3, with full release notes and installation guides on the project's website.
