Google launches Fitbit Edge: an upgrade of Charge 6, integrated GPS, altitude sensor, priced at 179 USD
Fitbit Edge will be a device for those who like the neatness of Fitbit Air but also want a screen to monitor. In short, Edge is like a version of Xiaomi Smart Band. Priced at $179.99, the device has a pill-shaped color screen, integrated independent GPS and an altimeter sensor.
The product is positioned in the segment between the screenless Fitbit Air model and the Pixel Watch 5 series, filling the gap three years after the launch of Charge 6. Users can pre-order from October 12 and the device will start shipping from October 27.
In terms of design, Fitbit Edge is equipped with an AMOLED screen covered with Gorilla Glass 3, the display area increased by 46% compared to Charge 6. The aluminum body is 11.5 mm thick, meets IP68 dust resistance standard and 5ATM waterproof standard. Unlike the previous pressure-sensitive keys, the right side of the device has a large physical button for precise operation when swimming or when your hands are wet. The integrated GPS cluster provides 40% higher accuracy thanks to nano-molding technology on the aluminum case. The device also supports removing the battery cover when needing repair similar to the Pixel Watch 5.
The sensor system below includes a heart rate sensor, skin temperature sensor, ECG electrocardiogram, SpO2 blood oxygen concentration, gyroscope, accelerometer and altimeter. The workout application supports tracking more than 50 subjects with real-time data.
The AI automatic movement recognition feature is capable of learning user habits to expand recognition to 100 different activities. The system will automatically record when the exercise lasts 15 minutes or more. Fitbit Edge runs Fitbit OS with an interface inspired by Pixel Watch 5, compatible with both Android and iOS. The device displays notifications, supports music control from every application on the phone and provides navigation via Google Maps. The device is not equipped with NFC so it does not support contactless payment via Google Wallet.
In terms of battery life, Fitbit Edge works for up to 7 days with the AOD screen turned off, or about 2 days if this feature is turned on continuously. Standard USB-C magnetic charger used with Fitbit Air, fully charged in 90 minutes and 5 minutes of fast charging provides enough battery for a day of use.
The device has four aluminum shell color versions including matte black, glossy silver, pyrite gray and champagne gold, and comes with many options of sports straps, magnet straps, metal straps or elastic fabric straps. Google also released a special Stephen Curry edition with its own strap priced at $219.99. Users can now pair Fitbit Air and Fitbit Edge simultaneously into the same account for daily switching flexibility.
