Google announces the Fitbit Edge, a middle ground between Pixel Watch 5 and Fitbit Air

The Edge will ship with a collection of fitness-focused experiences and watch faces, and you won’t be able to download more. While this looks a lot like the Pixel Watch’s software, it’s not a full version of WearOS. It can mirror notifications from your phone, but there’s no microphone or speaker. So responses are limited to pre-defined quick replies. Likewise, there’s no support for Gemini interactions. The Edge also lacks NFC, so no Google Wallet tap-to-pay.

One notable upgrade over the Fitbit Air is on-device GPS. This allows you to track an outdoor activity without bringing your phone along for the ride. Although, Google says it’s not as accurate as the dual-band GPS radio in the Pixel Watch. The Edge does retain the ECG and blood oxygen sensor from the Pixel Watch, which you don’t get on the Air. The Edge also has an altimeter, optical heart rate sensor, and skin temperature sensor.

All this data is beamed over Bluetooth 5.4 to the Google Health app (previously Fitbit), feeding all your data into the Gemini-powered Health Coach chatbot. The device comes with three months of Google Health Premium, without which you won’t get the AI features. Of course, some would probably prefer to skip the AI. The Premium subscription is $10 per month. It’s included with Google AI Pro, but you can disable the Health Coach if you want.

Accessorize and synergize

Like the Pixel Watch, the Edge will come with the basic silicone Active Band for $180. There is also a Stephen Curry Special Edition available for $220. The Edge has a custom band connector similar to the Pixel Watch, but the plug is a different size. While there will eventually be third-party options, Google plans to have a line of add-on bands at launch, including the Active Sport (silicone with holes) for $40, Performance Loop (polyester fabric) for $50, Magnet Band (leather-ish but still silicone) at $60, and a Metal Links Band for a whopping $150.