Google’s Mystery Wearable Hits the FCC: Here’s What We Know

Google has filed documents with the FCC regarding a mysterious wearable device, the G8BL6. This device is equipped with GPS and Bluetooth LE, suggesting it may be a fitness tracker or a similar wearable. The FCC filing also mentions that G8BL6 is designed to be worn on the wrist. The device is manufactured by Weifang Goertek Electronics, a company previously known for its fitness band products.

The absence of Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity in the FCC documentation suggests that G8BL6 may not have the same level of functionality as Google's existing Pixel Watch, which offers LTE options, apps, and deeper health features. However, the device's inclusion of Bluetooth LE and GNSS (GPS) indicates that it could potentially provide a more limited but still useful set of features.

The regulatory documents also reveal that G8BL6 supports an on-device interface, suggesting that it may have a display and the ability to interact with users directly, without relying on a paired smartphone. One of the most notable clues about G8BL6's potential purpose is the absence of Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity in the FCC filing.

This unusual combination of features makes it more likely that G8BL6 is designed for fitness tracking rather than general smartwatch functionality. The device's placement within Google's existing product lineup is also noteworthy. If confirmed, G8BL6 could fill a gap between Fitbit's simpler fitness trackers and Google's more advanced Pixel Watch.

This would be particularly important given the recent trend of older wearable devices reaching the end of their software support cycles. While the regulatory documents do not provide information on price, battery life, health sensors, or whether G8BL6 will support Wear OS, they do indicate that Google may have something new in the works.

As such, G8BL6 is worth keeping an eye on for anyone interested in the evolution of wearable technology.