How to Enable Developer Options on Android Wear

A few weeks ago, at the annual Google I/O developer event, a new mobile operating system for wearables like smartwatches was finally announced and released. Of course, we’re talking about Google’s brand new Android Wear platform for wearables.

Earlier this week, the first two Android Wear smartwatch options launched, with both the LG G Watch and Samsung Gear Live launching on the Google Play Store. Now that users are getting their own devices, we’re taking a few basic questions and answering them in a series of how-to articles.

Of course, Android Wear powered smartwatches run on Android, so naturally there is a menu of Developer options or tools for those looking for enhanced control when developing apps, hacking or rooting (the jailbreak version of Android) or installing custom software on the watch. And yes, custom ROMs are already available for Android Wear.

Here we will quickly explain how to open the hidden Developer options menu in Android Wear that gives users access to ADB debug controls and more.

Like all new Android smartphones and tablets, the Developer options menu is hidden from average users, but unlocking and gaining access is extremely simple. The same method that applies to all Android 4.4 KitKat devices also applies to Android Wear, and it is literally enough to simply tap the screen several times in a special area.

Just like the Nexus 5, Galaxy S4 and a host of other devices, you’ll just have to go to settings and tap a few buttons and you’re all set. Rather than explaining it, it goes without saying that using Android Wear is extremely easy, below is a video that shows users how to turn on and enable developer options in Android Wear.

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

Instructions

Essentially, you’ll be using your voice with the Google Assistant voice controls, then tap the screen a few times. Start by opening the Android Wear watch screen and simply say “OK, Google” and then “settings”. This will instantly take you to the settings menu, which you can also access by saying Ok Google and then manually swiping down. After entering the settings, a flick of your finger will take you to the bottom of the settings menu.

Tap “About” in settings and it matters where the clock shows “Build number”. Simply tap on the build number field 6-7 times and you will see the popups on the screen you are almost done. After about 7 taps on the build number option, you will fully unlock the hidden developer options menu. This much. You’re done.

After doing this, swipe from left to right to go back, this will take you to the original settings menu. The last settings option from here 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 required to unlock the bootloader, flash custom ROMs, or modify your new Android Wear watch as much as you want.

Yes, the method is pretty weird, but Google hides these options so average users don’t accidentally mess with the wrong settings. There is nothing too extreme in Android Wear, but there are many more options in the smartphone that can cause harmful effects when mixed.

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