Google Fitbit Edge launched with OLED display, 7-day battery life and advanced health tracking

Google has officially launched the Fitbit Edge, a new fitness tracker designed for people who want to keep an eye on their health without wearing a full-fledged smartwatch. The new wearable brings together fitness tracking, health insights and a handful of everyday smart features in a slim design. Compared to fitness bands like Fitbit Air, it gets a larger display, built-in GPS and a replaceable battery, making it an option for users who want more features than a basic fitness band but do not need a smartwatch, which is packed with apps.

For context, Google has not refreshed its Fitbit Charge lineup since the launch of the Fitbit Charge 6 in 2023. Internet murmurs suggest the Fitbit Edge is the spiritual successor to the Fitbit Charge that now steps in with a more rounded design, a bigger screen and a physical side button. It sits between the screenless Fitbit Air and the more feature-packed Pixel Watch 5. Currently, the new Fitness tracker is available mainly in North America, Europe and selected Asian countries. As for its India launch, it remains a mystery at the moment. Google may share more details about it in the coming days.

Fitbit Edge specs and features

Starting with the design, the Fitbit Edge features a Hybrid OLED touchscreen that Google says offers 46 per cent more viewing area than previous Fitbit trackers. The display is designed to remain readable even in direct sunlight and supports glanceable tiles and customisable clock faces. The tracker measures 11.5mm in thickness and has an aluminium body made using recycled materials. Google also says its case is 45 per cent lighter than the Apple Watch Series 12. A physical button on the side lets users quickly access controls, including the workout pause screen.

The Fitbit Edge runs a tile-based interface that puts essential information within easy reach. Users can check steps, weather, heart rate and sleep data, while also accessing Google Maps, media controls and call and message notifications. However, it does not run Wear OS, so do not expect the same range of apps and features available on the Pixel Watch 5. The tracker works with both Android and iOS devices, although quick replies to messages are not supported on iOS.

For fitness tracking, the device supports more than 50 exercise modes, with real-time guidance for activities such as running, Pilates and high-intensity interval training. Its built-in GPS is claimed to offer up to 40 per cent better tracking accuracy than previous generations. An altimeter is also included to track elevation changes during outdoor activities. The tracker can automatically recognise and categorise up to 100 workouts, even if you forget to start tracking manually.

Health tracking is another key part of the Fitbit Edge. It comes with an ECG app, continuous heart rate monitoring and a skin temperature sensor. It also tracks sleep stages, heart rate variability and recovery trends. Google says its Health Guardian features can monitor changes in blood pressure and insulin resistance trends, along with high and low heart rate alerts. Some of these insights and personalised guidance require a Google Health Premium subscription.

The Fitbit Edge promises up to seven days of battery life on a single charge. Google says five minutes of magnetic charging can provide enough power for a full day of use. The tracker is water-resistant up to 50 metres and is designed to withstand everyday workouts. It is also Google's first repairable fitness tracker, with a modular internal design and a replaceable battery intended to extend its lifespan.

Fitbit Edge price and availability

The Google Fitbit Edge is priced at $179.99 (around Rs 17,137) and is available for pre-order from October 12 through the Google Store and retail partners. It will go on sale from October 27. Buyers will also get three months of Google Health Premium at no extra cost with their purchase.

The tracker comes in four colour options: Obsidian with a matte black case, Fog with a polished silver case, Olive with a satin pyrite case and Canyon with a warm gold case. Google is also offering interchangeable bands, including Active Sport, Performance Loop, Magnet and Metal Links options.

For those looking for something different, Google has introduced a Stephen Curry Special Edition Fitbit Edge, created with the four-time NBA champion and Google Performance Advisor. It features a combination of rye tones and game-day orange and is priced at $219.99 (approximately Rs 20,929).