The Fitbit Air Is Getting an Upgrade
These are all the new features you can expect to see with the Air.
Google is unveiling a series of upgrades for its Fitbit Air smartwatch, set to debut in the fall. Alongside the announcement of the new Fitbit Edge, three key features are being added to the Fitbit Air, originally launched in May.
Health Guardian, a proactive health and safety tool from Google, is now integrated into the Google Health app. It continuously monitors your health signals, offers a monthly health summary, and sends timely alerts for issues requiring immediate attention. The tool detects irregular heart rhythms and abnormal heart rates, and for Pixel Watch 3 and later models, it also alerts for loss of pulse.
In the premium version, priced at $10 per month or $100 per year, users gain access to additional features like insulin resistance levels, blood pressure trends, and sleep breathing quality trends. These are compatible with Pixel Watch 3 and up, as well as the Fitbit Air.
Insulin resistance, a condition where the body fails to respond correctly to insulin, is estimated using data from the Pixel Watch 3 and Fitbit Air. This includes heart rhythm, sleep quality, and daily activity levels. Google Health's model uses these sensors to monitor metabolic health by analyzing heart rhythm, sleep quality, and daily activity patterns. However, it's important to note that insulin resistance doesn't monitor real-time glucose levels or serve as a pre-screen for diabetes or diabetes management.
Blood pressure trends are another new feature, derived from optical and movement sensors, pulse patterns, and WavesFM, an AI model by Google. The system estimates pulse shape and speed beneath the skin to gauge blood pressure over a month. However, this feature isn't a substitute for a blood pressure monitor and is not suitable for hypertension management or for pregnant people.
Lastly, the Fitbit Air’s automatic workout detection has been enhanced, doubling its accuracy and reducing missed detections by 50% compared to the original version. The new large language model can now accurately identify various workout types based on movement, routine, logs, and location. This includes better detection of racket sports like tennis, trail runs, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
A CNET reviewer praised the Fitbit Air for its upgraded workout detection, which previously struggled with low-impact workouts like Pilates. Now, users can choose from metal mesh bands in silver and gold, giving the device a more refined, jewelry-like appearance suitable for any setting.
Written by urgent.news from CNET's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
