Google launches Fitbit Edge tracker with AMOLED display and GPS at $179.99

Google on 12 October announced the Fitbit Edge, a fitness tracker with a display and built-in GPS. It is priced at $179.99 in the US and is available for pre-order on the Google Store, with sales from 27 October, according to 9to5Google and TechCrunch. A Stephen Curry Special Edition with a custom band costs $219.99.

Google has not announced Indian pricing or an India launch date. The reports checked by The Daily Rostrum do not say which countries will get the device.

Design and hardware

TechCrunch described the Edge as Google’s middle option between the screenless Fitbit Air and the Pixel Watch. 9to5Google reported that it has a wide, pill-shaped AMOLED screen with Gorilla Glass 3, offering about 46% more display area than the Charge 6. Key specifications reported:

• Price: $179.99; Stephen Curry Special Edition $219.99
• Built-in GPS that Google says is about 40% more accurate than the previous generation
• Battery: up to seven days with the always-on display off, about two days with it on
• 11.5mm aluminium body, IP68 rating and 5ATM water resistance
• Sensors including heart rate, ECG, SpO2, skin temperature and an altimeter
• User-replaceable battery and a magnetic USB-C charger shared with the Fitbit Air

The tracker comes in four colour combinations: Obsidian, Fog, Olive and Canyon, according to both publications. 9to5Google reported that the device has no NFC, so Google Wallet payments are not supported. Quick replies to notifications work only with Android phones.

Fitness and AI features

TechCrunch reported that the Edge automatically detects up to 100 activities, supports more than 50 exercise modes and, according to Google, detects sleep stages 15% more accurately than earlier generations. It works with Google Health Coach, a Gemini-powered feature that builds weekly workout plans and requires a Google Health Premium subscription. Google also listed Health Guardian, a feature designed to flag notable changes in health measurements over time. Google first announced both features at the Pixel Watch 5 launch in August.

The device works with both Android and iOS phones and can share a Google account with the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 5, 9to5Google reported.

Sources: 9to5Google, TechCrunch, Business Today