How to Enable Developer Options on Android Wear

A few weeks back at the annual Google I/O developer event a new mobile OS for wearable devices like a smartwatch was finally announced and released. Of course we’re talking about Google’s brand new Android Wear platform for wearable technology.

Earlier this week the first two Android Wear smartwatch options hit the market with both the LG G Watch and Samsung Gear Live going up for sale on the Google Play Store. Now that users are starting to receive their own devices, we’re getting a few basic questions, and will be answering them in a series of how to articles.

Read: Samsung Gear Live vs LG G Watch: Android Wear Watches Compared

Of course Android Wear-powered smartwatches run on Android, so naturally there’s a Developer options or tools menu for those looking for advanced control while developing apps, hacking or rooting (Android’s version of jailbreak) or to install custom software on the watch. And yes custom ROMs are already available for Android Wear.

Here we’ll quickly explain how to unlock the hidden Developer options menu on Android Wear, which also gives users access to ADB debugging controls and more.

Just like all recent Android smartphones and tablets the Developer options menu is hidden from average users, but it’s extremely simple to unlock and receive access to. The same method that applies to all Android 4.4 KitKat devices also applies to Android Wear, and literally a few taps of the screen in a special area is all that’s needed.

Just like the Nexus 5, Galaxy S4, and an array of other devices you’ll simply have to head into settings and tap a few buttons and you’re all set. Instead of explaining it, not to mention using Android Wear is extremely easy, below is a video showing users how to unlock and enable the developer options on Android Wear.

Read: How to Enable Developer Options on the Nexus 5 & Android 4.4 KitKat

Below is a quick video giving users a quick look and showing you the few easy steps required to access the hidden developer options menu on your new smartwatch.

Instructions

Essentially you’ll just be using your voice with Google Now voice controls, then tapping the screen a few times. Start by having the Android Wear watch screen turned on and simply say: “Ok, Google” and then speak “settings”. This will instantly take you to the settings menu, which you can also access by saying Ok Google and then scrolling down manually. Once in settings a flick of your finger will take you to the bottom of the settings menu.

In settings tap “About” and where the watch shows “Build number” is key. Simply tap the build number area 6-7 times and you’ll see on-screen popups that you’re almost done. After about 7 taps of the build number option you’ll completely unlock the hidden developer options menu. That’s it. You’re all done.

Once you’ve done this swipe from left to right to go back, which takes you to the original settings menu. From here the last settings option is now the Developer options menu. From here you can keep the screen on while charging for developers, enable ADB debugging, and a few other things.

This is needed to unlock the bootloader, flash custom ROMs, or tweak your new Android Wear watch as much as you’d like.

Read: Samsung Gear Live: Hands-on with Android Wear

Yes, the method is quite odd, but Google hides these options so average users won’t accidentally mess with the wrong settings. There’s nothing too extreme on Android Wear, but on a smartphone there are a lot more options that can have damaging effects if messed with.

That’s it, you’re now a developer for Android Wear. Or have access to the menu at least.