Your Fitbit Air is about to get much smarter thanks to Google’s next update

Google is rolling out significant updates to the Fitbit Air, a screenless wearable that competes with Garmin's Cirqa. The most notable enhancement is an improved automatic workout tracker, powered by a new large language model (LLM) foundation. This upgrade aims to make the device's activity detection more reliable and accurate. The Fitbit Air will join devices such as the Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5, as well as the recently announced Fitbit Edge, in receiving this update later this month.

The upgraded fitness tracking capabilities extend beyond the original 10 workouts, now encompassing over 100 new workouts, including strength training and swimming. This feature uses Google Health's critical context readings, which incorporate data like exercise routines, history, and location (with user permission) to detect activity with double the accuracy. The upgrade also cuts missed workouts in half.

In addition to the workout tracking improvements, Fitbit Air and Fitbit Edge users will gain access to Google's Health Guardian features, which monitor health trends over time. However, this requires a Google Health Premium subscription, priced at $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.99 per month. With Health Guardian, users can track trends such as blood pressure and insulin resistance. If users meet the monthly wear requirements, they'll receive a monthly report to help them make informed lifestyle adjustments.

Health Coach is another useful feature that contextualizes changes in patterns and provides informed guidance on personal lifestyle and wellness. However, it's essential to note that Google explicitly states Health Guardian is not designed to diagnose or treat any health issues and encourages users to seek professional medical advice if they have any concerns.