**AsteroidOS 2.0** has been unveiled as a Linux-based, open-source smartwatch operating system, featuring always-on display support, Tilt-to-Wake, a customizable QuickPanel, multiple launcher styles, Nightstand mode, improved performance, and compatibility with approximately 30 devices.
After years of development, AsteroidOS 2.0 has been released. The journey began in 2016 when the project was introduced with a basic user experience on the LG G Watch and later presented at FOSDEM 2016. In 2017, the crowdfunded Connect Watch, running AsteroidOS, launched but wasn’t funded, leading to the release of AsteroidOS 1.0 in 2018. The developers have now brought **AsteroidOS 2.0** to fruition.
AsteroidOS 2.0 highlights:
– **New Features**
– Always-on Display, Tilt-to-Wake, Palm-to-Sleep
– Heart rate monitor app
– Initial step counting support
– Music volume control
– Compass support
– Support for Bluetooth HID and Audio
– **Design, Usability, and App Improvements**
– New QuickPanel with more settings and app shortcuts
– Seven new app launchers
– Enhanced Wallpaper and Watchface gallery with new wallpapers
– Nightstand mode for bedside clock use
– New breathing-style background animation
– Diamonds – a 2048-like game
– Weather app redesign with improved legibility
– Timer app redesign optimized for round watches
– Flashlight and Calculator apps with improved layouts
– Support for round screens with a flat tire shape
– Improved button layout and translations for 49 languages
– **Performance and System Enhancements**
– Optimized rendering for smoother animations
– Battery life improvements
– Stability fixes
AsteroidOS works with various synchronization clients, including the AsteroidOS Sync Android app, Gadgetbridge project, Amazfish client, and Telescope for Ubuntu Touch.
Previously supported devices include LG G Watch series, Asus Zenwatch series, Sony Smartwatch 3, and a software emulator. AsteroidOS 2.0 adds support for several models such as Fossil Gen 4 to 6 watches, Huawei Watch and Watch 2, LG Watch W7, Moto 360 2015, OPPO Watch, Polar M600, and a range of Ticwatch models. Experimental support exists for Casio WSD-F10/F20, LG Watch Urbane 2, Moto 360 1st gen, Samsung Gear 2, and Gear Live. The project aims to reduce electronic waste alongside privacy and education.
For more on AsteroidOS 2.0, watch the 7-minute showcase video or visit the project’s GitHub, the announcement, and the official website. They welcome hardware porters, app developers, translators, testers, designers, and documentation writers to join the project.