Google Revives the Fitness Band With the Fitbit Edge

The wearable tech market has spent the last decade shifting from simple step counters to feature-heavy smartwatches. Google is now reversing that trend with the launch of the Fitbit Edge.

The device costs $179.99 and serves as a modernized version of the bands Fitbit sold between 2014 and 2020. It shares the core design language of the Charge, Alta, and Inspire lines. The hardware is lightweight and features a fully rounded display that replaces the boxy screen found on the Fitbit Charge 6.

Battery performance remains a primary selling point. The tracker lasts approximately one week on a single charge. That duration drops to about one and a half days if the user enables the always-on display. The device includes built-in GPS for tracking runs and walks without a smartphone. It also supports alarms, notifications, and music controls.

Google removed several features that were standard on recent smartwatches. The Edge has no microphones or speakers, so users cannot take calls on the wrist. It also lacks contactless payment capabilities. Andy Abramson, head of product at Google Health, cited usage data for the decision. He stated that less than one percent of Charge 6 owners used the payment feature. The company prioritized a sleek design, an altimeter, and weeklong battery life instead.

The software experience undergoes a major change. The traditional Fitbit app is replaced by the Google Health platform. This new system includes an AI coach that generates custom fitness routines. Users receive three months of this subscription for free with the purchase. After that period, the cost is $10 per month. The app interface borrows design elements from the Pixel Watch, specifically the Material 3 Expressive widgets.

Testing of the automatic activity tracking showed mixed results. The device correctly identified the transition from walking to running during a test session. The estimated distance for a 2.4-mile run was 2.55 miles. However, the speed tracking was less accurate. The Edge logged a pace of 10 minutes and 49 seconds per mile, while an Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the Runna app recorded a pace of 11 minutes and 38 seconds.

The AI coach provides detailed guidance but requires regular user input to remain effective. The system can feel cluttered for veteran users who are accustomed to the previous interface. Newcomers to fitness may find the structured routines more helpful. Users should be aware that the coach retains historical health data, such as past injuries, to inform its recommendations.

The device includes Health Guardian features that track noninvasive insulin resistance and blood pressure trends. Initial results for these metrics are available to users starting on November 1. The Edge runs on a proprietary Fitbit operating system, not Wear OS. It works with both iOS and Android smartphones.

The metal link bracelet for the device costs $150. A magnetic silicone strap that mimics leather is available for $60. The price point of $179.99 sits between the $99 Fitbit Air and the $249 Apple Watch SE 3. Competitors like Xiaomi and Amazfit offer similar display-equipped trackers at lower prices.

Setup requires users to agree to three mandatory terms and conditions. These include the device terms, privacy policy, and specific permissions for health data storage. Google states that health data is stored separately and is not used for targeted advertising by default. Users must opt in explicitly if they want their data to be used for AI training.