Google Watch expected to drop end of October

Google is gearing up to launch its first smartwatch at the end of October, a year after the firm snapped up Android smartwatch maker WIMM Labs.

The web giant is expected to reveal its smartwatch the same day as Android Kit Kat 4.4 (31 October). Little is known about the specifications of the wearable device, but sources indicate the firm's Google Now software will be heavily integrated.

The Google Now personal assistant software debuted in Android Jelly Bean 4.1 and is able to make recommendations, provide information based on your location and answer queries.

The integration of Google Now into the smartwatch would allow it to display messages, traffic information, reminders and appointments. But if this is the primary feature, the watch may have limited standalone functionality and will need to be tethered to an Android smartphone.

Google has not hidden its desire to lead the wearable technology market. The web giant has already announced its Google Glass product, which is currently being tested by developers.

The launch of a Google Watch would be the fourth high-profile smartwatch to be launched this year following on from the Pebble, Sony Smartwatch 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Gear the latter of which received a critical mauling.

Most major technology vendors are actively developing a wearable device including Apple. The firm is expected to ship its iWatch in 2014, but is taking a different approach to competitors.

Supply chain sources told financial investment firm Cantor Fitzgerald that Apple wants to make its device a standalone product which has the ability to control heating, lighting, audio and video.