Fitbit Edge adds GPS to slim tracker, bridging Air and Pixel Watch 5

Google has launched the Fitbit Edge, a new wearable priced at $179.99 that sits between its slim Fitbit Air and the more capable Pixel Watch 5. According to ZDNET Security, the device addresses user complaints about the bulkiness of previous smartwatches by offering a slimmer profile while retaining key health tracking features.

What happened

Google unveiled the Fitbit Edge on Monday, introducing a device that combines the slim form factor of the Fitbit Air with an OLED touchscreen, according to TechCrunch. The watch measures 11.5mm thick, making it thinner than the 12.3mm Pixel Watch 5 but slightly thicker than the 11.2mm Fitbit Charge 6, as noted by ZDNET Security. It features a pill-shaped 1.34-inch display that offers 46 percent more viewable area than the Charge 6, according to Ars Technica.

The Edge includes on-device GPS, which Google claims is 40 percent more accurate than the previous generation, according to TechCrunch. This allows users to track outdoor activities without carrying a phone, though Google states it is less accurate than the dual-band GPS in the Pixel Watch 5, according to Ars Technica. The device also supports automatic recognition of up to 100 activities and more than 50 exercise modes, according to TechCrunch.

Battery life is rated for up to seven days with the always-on display disabled, but drops to two days when enabled, according to Ars Technica. The watch is water-resistant to 50 meters and rated IP68 (5 ATM) for water and dust protection, according to Ars Technica. It lacks NFC for payments and has no microphone or speaker, limiting responses to pre-defined quick replies, according to Ars Technica.

Why it matters

The Fitbit Edge provides a middle-ground option for users who find the Pixel Watch 5 too bulky but desire more features than the screenless Fitbit Air, according to Ars Technica. Priced at $179.99, it is significantly cheaper than the Pixel Watch 5, offering a more affordable entry point into Google’s wearable ecosystem, according to TechCrunch. The device integrates with Google Health Coach and Health Guardian, features that require a Google Health Premium subscription, according to TechCrunch.

Google positions the Edge as its first repairable Fitbit device, distinguishing it from the similar-spec Fitbit Charge 6, according to ZDNET Security. The inclusion of on-device GPS and improved sleep-stage detection accuracy, claimed to be 15 percent better than earlier generations, enhances its utility for fitness tracking, according to TechCrunch. However, the absence of WearOS means users cannot download additional apps or use Gemini interactions directly on the device, according to Ars Technica.

Next steps

• Preorders for the Fitbit Edge are available through the Google Store, according to TechCrunch.
• The device will be available in retail stores starting October 27, according to TechCrunch.
• Customers can choose from Obsidian, Fog, Olive, and Canyon colours, or a Stephen Curry Special Edition for $219.99, according to TechCrunch.

What to do and how to stay safe: Fitbit Edge

• Review the specific health data permissions required by the Google Health app before pairing the device.
• Verify which fitness features require a Google Health Premium subscription to avoid unexpected costs.
• Check if the on-device GPS accuracy meets your specific outdoor tracking needs compared to phone-based tracking.
• Ensure your current smartphone is compatible with the Google Health app for full functionality.

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Frequently asked questions

Does the Fitbit Edge run WearOS?

No, the Fitbit Edge does not run WearOS and does not support downloading additional apps or Gemini interactions, according to Ars Technica.

How long does the battery last?

The battery lasts up to seven days with the always-on display off, but only about two days with it enabled, according to Ars Technica.

Can I use Google Wallet on the Fitbit Edge?

No, the device lacks NFC support, so it does not support Google Wallet tap-to-pay functionality, according to Ars Technica.