Google’s focus on Fitbit products has been minimal since its acquisition earlier this year, as the software giant’s interest lies primarily in developing its own smartwatches. However, Fitbit still boasts a significant userbase that cannot be solely addressed by a Pixel Watch. Recognizing this, Alphabet is refreshing the Fitbit Charge line, incorporating advanced health sensors and a machine learning algorithm to provide the most accurate heart rate tracking yet. This integration of biometric sensors and machine learning is a result of the collaboration between Google and Fitbit, aiming to refine the vast amounts of health data collected by wearables.
The heart rate monitoring technology featured in the new Fitbit Charge 6 is directly borrowed from the Pixel Watch, suggesting a potential pipeline for future innovations. As Google is expected to announce a new smartwatch soon, the timing of this release seems intentional. Additionally, the Charge 6 introduces the capability to connect with workout apps and equipment, allowing real-time metric monitoring. Furthermore, Fitbit has integrated some of Google’s first-party software into the Charge 6, including Google Maps and Google Wallet, making it a more comprehensive fitness tracker with added convenience for everyday tasks.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is currently available for pre-order, with a price of $160 when it becomes available for sale in the coming months. This latest iteration demonstrates Alphabet’s commitment to sustaining Fitbit’s userbase while furthering the development of health-related features and expanding its integration with Google’s ecosystem of software services.