Google Launches Fitbit Edge as Midpoint Between Fitness Tracker and Smartwatch

Google has launched a new wearable called the Fitbit Edge on Monday. It sits between the screenless Fitbit Air and the Pixel Watch 5 in the company lineup. Preorders begin today, October 12, with store availability set for October 27. The base price is $179.99.

An oblong aluminum casing houses a 1.34-inch OLED display on the device. Battery life is rated for up to seven days on a single charge. Google says the battery is user-replaceable, marking a first for Fitbit hardware. The charger fits with the Fitbit Air model as well.

Health tracking includes built-in GPS that is claimed to be 40% more accurate than previous generations. However, reports note this radio is not as precise as the Pixel Watch's dual-band system. Sensors include an ECG monitor, skin temperature sensor, and altimeter for elevation.

The wearable connects to the Google Health app for AI-powered coaching via the Gemini chatbot. Users can view weekly routines but cannot use on-device voice commands for interactions. Advanced features like blood pressure trends require a Google Health Premium subscription costing $9.99 per month.

Connectivity options exclude NFC support, so users cannot make mobile payments with the device. Call notifications display on the screen but there are no microphones or speakers for taking calls directly. Messaging supports only pre-defined quick replies without dictation capabilities.

While an Active silicone band comes included, additional options like metal links start at $40. A Stephen Curry Special Edition is available for $219.99. Google plans to offer third-party band support eventually but will launch with its own add-on collection.

The design targets smaller wrists better than the round Pixel Watch face. Unlike Apple's ecosystem, users can sync multiple Google wearables simultaneously to the Health app without conflict. This allows owners to use different devices for sleep or fitness tracking at the same time.