Google Fitbit Air launches as screenless health tracker

Google has released the Fitbit Air, a $99 screenless wearable tracker designed for continuous health monitoring without a mandatory subscription for core features. The device weighs 12g with its adjustable textile loop band and features a distraction-free design without buttons or a screen.

Technical specifications include optical heart rate monitoring, SpO2 sensors, skin temperature tracking, a 3-axis accelerometer, and a gyroscope. The device is water-resistant up to 50m and offers a battery life of approximately seven days. While it provides FDA-cleared background AFib detection, it lacks a GPS chip, ECG, altimeter, and NFC payment capabilities.

Google has transitioned the Fitbit app into Google Health. While core tracking remains free, advanced features such as the Gemini-powered Health Coach, adaptive plans, and long-term trend analysis are available through a Google Health Premium subscription, costing $9.99 per month or $99 per year.