Google has announced that the new Android Wear 5.1.1 OS update has begun rolling out to all compatible smartwatches, bringing with it new features such as "Always-On Screen, Always-On Apps", Emojis, Heads-Up Notification, Wi-Fi connectivity support and more.

The Android Wear 5.1.1 Lollipop first landed with the LG Watch Urbane and is now rolling out across the other devices, including Moto 360, Sony Smartwatch 3, and the Samsung Gear Live. Here's a list of the features that the software update will bring to Android Wear watches:

Always-on screen, always-on apps: Most Android Wear watches include an always-on screen option and do not require any tapping, twisting or shaking to see the time. This option has been expanded to apps and instead of disappearing when the arm is dropped, the apps will now remain visible for as long as the user needs them.

New launcher & Wrist gestures: Users can now access their apps and contacts by simply swiping left from their watch face. Android Wear will also respond to specific navigation gestures so that users can scroll between cards with a simple flick of their wrist.

Draw emojis: In response to texts, instant messages, or emails, users can now send emojis to their contacts by drawing them on the watch screen. The watch will recognize the emoji drawn and send it via any chosen messaging app.

Heads-up notifications: Incoming notifications like text messages will now appear on-screen even when users are looking at something else on their watch, like directions or fitness stats, so that nothing important is missed.

Wi-Fi connectivity support: Google has clarified the software update will bring WiFi support to some Android Wear devices, including LG Watch Urbane, Moto 360, Sony Smartwatch 3 and Samsung Gear Live, while the Asus ZenWatch, LG G Watch and G Watch R will not receive the feature.

Google has noted that that the new firmware patch will be rolled out gradually and could take days or weeks to arrive on all devices. In order to receive the update, all units need to be running on the latest version of the Android wear companion app, which can be found on the Google Play Store.