Google just pulled its note-taking app Keep from Apple Watch, extending a long and storied history of Google killing off products.
Google just pulled its note-taking app Keep
Alphabet Inc.'s Google pulled its Keep note-taking app from Apple Watch with on June 30, 2025. The move leaves users without a Google-backed way to take notes on the wrist.
Keep launched for watchOS in 2019 but never got much attention. It lacked watch face complications and other core features. Over time, it fell behind.
Meanwhile, Apple is getting ready to launch its own Notes app for Apple Watch with watchOS 26, offering a built-in alternative that works smoothly with iOS.
Why Google removed Keep
Google is careful about which of its apps stay on Apple Watch. Maps and YouTube Music remain because they support advertising or subscription revenue.
Keep is different. It's a free utility with no clear way to make money. Without an obvious return, Google chose not to maintain it on a rival's platform.
For users, that means no more quick note access on the watch using Google's ecosystem. Those who want notes on the wrist will need to turn to Apple's Notes app, Microsoft OneNote, Bear, or Drafts.
Google's habit of shutting down products
Google is well known for retiring products that lose priority. The independent tracker Killed by Google lists 200 products and services that have been shut down so far.
Recent examples include Google Podcasts, which closed in 2024 after pushing listeners to YouTube Music. Jamboard also ended in 2024, with its tools folded into Meet. Stadia shut down in early 2023 after failing to win enough players.
Users are obviously unhappy when Google drops services without warning. The company says these choices help focus resources or reduce overlap. But it has left many hesitant to rely on new Google products long term.
What it means for Apple Watch users
People who used Keep on their watch now need to find a new plan. Apple's Notes app is coming with watchOS 26 and will work better on Apple's platform anyway.
But those trying to stay within Google's ecosystem will have to settle for using Keep only on the phone.
For anyone who relies on Google services, it's another reminder that support can vanish at any time. That includes apps that once seemed like staples.