Google adds metal mesh bands and health features to Fitbit Air
Google introduces a premium metal mesh band option for the Fitbit Air alongside expanded automatic activity tracking and monthly health reports.
Key points
- Google launched a $69.99 Metal Mesh band for the Fitbit Air in silver and gold finishes.
- Automatic activity tracking now detects over 100 activities using contextual reasoning.
- Health Guardian features provide monthly lifestyle reports for Google Health Premium users.
Google has expanded the accessory lineup for its Fitbit Air tracker with the introduction of a new Metal Mesh band, according to reports from Android Authority and 9to5Google. The company also announced significant software updates that enhance automatic activity tracking and introduce new health monitoring features for premium subscribers.
The new Metal Mesh band is priced at $69.99 and aims to offer a more formal aesthetic compared to existing fabric or polyurethane options. Google states that the band is designed to complement existing jewelry and elevated outfits, addressing previous limitations in style versatility for the lightweight tracker.
New Band Options and Pricing
The Metal Mesh band is available in Polished Silver and Champagne Gold colors. Customers can also purchase a bundle that includes the Fitbit Air with both the Metal Mesh band and the Performance Loop band for $149.99. This bundle is currently only available in the gold color option.
According to 9to5Google, this bundle costs $20 more than previous special editions, such as the Steph Curry or Pokémon Sleep variants. However, the higher price point includes two bands rather than a single accessory, offering greater value for users who wish to swap styles frequently.
Software and Health Features
Google detailed several feature additions that apply to all Fitbit Air units regardless of band choice. The company announced improvements to automatic activity tracking, claiming the updates will result in more intelligent and reliable detection. The system now uses contextual reasoning to factor in workout routines, historical data, and location permissions.
These changes expand the number of detectable activities from ten to more than one hundred. New categories include strength training, swimming, and various racket and team sports. Google asserts that these improvements nearly double detection accuracy and cut missed workouts by more than half.
Who is affected
The automatic tracking overhaul affects all Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch users. Workouts that meet a minimum duration threshold of fifteen minutes with a sustained elevated heart rate are now automatically logged. A summary of these activities is typically sent to the mobile app within thirty minutes of completion.
Google Health Premium subscribers will receive additional benefits through the Health Guardian features. Users who set up blood pressure and insulin resistance trends in the app will receive monthly reports. These reports are designed to guide lifestyle adjustments and may increase the usability of the AI Health Coach for average users.
What should you do?
Users interested in the new aesthetic should verify the availability of their preferred band color, as the bundle option is limited to gold. Premium subscribers should ensure their health metrics are properly configured in the app to receive the new monthly reports. All users should check their activity settings to confirm automatic tracking thresholds align with their workout habits.
What to do and how to stay safe: Fitbit Air
- Check the Fitbit app settings to ensure automatic activity tracking is enabled and review the new duration thresholds.
- Verify if your subscription includes Google Health Premium to access the new monthly Health Guardian reports.
- Review available band options and pricing to determine if the metal mesh upgrade fits your budget and style needs.
- Update your Fitbit device software to ensure compatibility with the expanded activity detection algorithms.
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the new Metal Mesh band cost?
The Metal Mesh band is priced at $69.99, or part of a $149.99 bundle that includes the tracker and two bands.
What new activities can the Fitbit Air track automatically?
The device can now detect more than 100 activities, including strength training, swimming, and team sports.
Do I need a premium subscription for the new health reports?
Yes, the monthly Health Guardian reports are available specifically for Google Health Premium users.
