Google officially launches Fitbit Edge tracker with larger screen and EKG sensor
The new wearable sits between the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 5, offering improved GPS accuracy and a week-long battery life at $179.99.
Key points
- Google has officially announced the Fitbit Edge, positioning it between the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 5.
- The device features a 46 percent larger OLED display, EKG capabilities, and a replaceable battery.
- It lacks NFC for payments and a speaker, but offers improved automatic workout tracking and GPS accuracy.
Google has officially confirmed the existence of the Fitbit Edge, a new fitness tracker designed to sit between the recently launched Fitbit Air and the more powerful Google Pixel Watch 5. According to The Verge, the device targets users who experience smartwatch fatigue but still require notification capabilities, effectively serving as the successor to the aging Fitbit Charge 6 in the company's current wearable lineup.
The Fitbit Edge features a 46 percent larger OLED display compared to the Charge 6, along with a physical side button and a thickness of 11.5 millimeters. It utilizes a replaceable battery that provides approximately one week of usage on a single charge, though this drops to two days with the always-on display enabled. The tracker uses the same proprietary charger as the Air, allowing for a full charge in 90 minutes or about a day’s worth of battery in five minutes.
Hardware specifications and omissions
The device includes an EKG sensor for atrial fibrillation detection, a skin temperature sensor, SpO2 monitoring, optical heart rate sensors, and standard motion tracking capabilities. It is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance and is safe for swimming up to 5ATM. However, the Fitbit Edge lacks a microphone and speaker, preventing users from taking calls directly from their wrist, although they can still see caller information on the screen.
Notably, the tracker does not include an NFC chip for contactless payments, a feature present in the Charge 6. The Verge notes this omission is disappointing given the Edge replaces the Charge 6 and costs $20 more at $179.99. This price includes three months of Google Health Premium. The hardware design prioritizes simplicity and battery life over the full smartwatch experience offered by the Pixel Watch 5.
Improved tracking capabilities
The new Fitbit offers enhanced automatic workout tracking and GPS compared to the Charge 6. The revised motion model, which will also come to the Air, pulls in location data and routines to infer activities. For example, if a user visits a tennis court, the device assumes the activity is tennis, and it can infer yoga based on regular Tuesday morning routines. Google states this new model makes auto activity tracking twice as accurate and supports over 100 activities.
The Edge’s GPS tracking is purportedly 40 percent more accurate than previous models. However, it does not use the same software-based post-processing update that Google introduced with the Pixel Watch 5. This improvement aims to provide better location data for outdoor activities without relying on the more advanced processing found in the company's flagship smartwatch.
What should you do?
Consumers interested in the Fitbit Edge should evaluate whether the lack of NFC payments and call-taking capabilities aligns with their needs. Those upgrading from the Charge 6 should note the price increase and the removal of contactless payment features. Users prioritizing battery life and screen size over full smartwatch functionality may find the Edge a suitable compromise between the Air and Pixel Watch 5.
What to do and how to stay safe: Fitbit Edge
- Review the specific feature omissions, such as the lack of NFC and speaker, to ensure they do not impact your daily workflow or fitness routine.
- Compare the battery life estimates against your typical usage patterns, especially if you plan to use the always-on display feature frequently.
- Verify compatibility with your existing ecosystem, noting that the Edge uses the same proprietary charger as the Fitbit Air.
- Monitor for any future software updates that might address the lack of post-processing GPS improvements seen in the Pixel Watch 5.
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Fitbit Edge support contactless payments?
No, the Fitbit Edge lacks an NFC chip, so it does not support contactless payments, unlike the previous Fitbit Charge 6.
How long does the Fitbit Edge battery last?
The replaceable battery lasts about a week on a single charge, but this drops to two days if the always-on display is enabled.
Is the Fitbit Edge water-resistant?
Yes, the device is rated IP68 and is safe for swimming up to 5ATM, making it suitable for various water activities.
