Google has officially launched the Fitbit Air, a screenless wearable that was first teased in March. The device represents a significant shift in Google's approach to fitness tracking, moving away from traditional smartwatches and toward a simpler, more passive form factor reminiscent of Whoop bands. The Fitbit Air is designed to be worn continuously — on a wristband, chest strap, or even as a clip — and relies entirely on its companion app for data visualization and insights. Priced at $100 for pre-order, the Air aims to deliver the core Fitbit experience without the bulk of a display.
According to Google Health general manager Rishi Chandra, the Fitbit Air is 25 percent smaller than the Fitbit Luxe and 50 percent smaller than the Inspire 3. Weighing just 12 grams (0.42 ounces) with a band and 5.2 grams (0.18 ounces) without, it is one of the lightest wearables on the market. Google commissioned an independent consumer perception study last year that rated the Air "more comfortable than leading competitors" among the most popular wearables in the United States. The company emphasizes the device's "secure, micro-adjustable fit,\” designed so that users won't notice it during work, exercise, or sleep.
As a screenless passive wearable, the Fitbit Air focuses entirely on data collection. It monitors heart rate continuously and uses Google's established algorithms to log sleep stages, assign a nightly Sleep Score, and track heart rate variability (HRV). The device can also detect signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib) through irregular heart rhythm notifications. These features are standard for modern fitness trackers, but Google claims its "advanced new machine learning models" are 15% more accurate than previous versions, and the Sleep Score has been refined to "better reflect recovery."
Activity tracking is handled through auto-detection for common exercises like running, walking, biking (both stationary and outdoor), rowing, elliptical, and other high-heart-rate sports. Users can manually start sessions for approximately 40 activity types from the app, including aerobics, circuit training, canoeing, dancing, kickboxing, and yoga. Additionally, the app allows users to log over 140 other activities — from archery to household chores — expanding the tracking possibilities beyond the automatically recognized ones. The Fitbit Air also provides weekly cardio load and readiness metrics, along with basic stats such as steps, distance, and active minutes.
Google has integrated a vibration motor that enables silent alarms and the company's Smart Wake feature, which gently rouses users at the optimal point in their sleep cycle. This feature aligns with the device's emphasis on rest and recovery.
The "Air" name also hints at the device's AI capabilities. Like many Google products released this year, the Fitbit Air is infused with artificial intelligence. The centerpiece is the Google Health Coach, a Gemini-powered conversational interface that was first introduced in public preview last October. Users can interact with the Health Coach through the Google Health app, asking questions and receiving personalized suggestions based on their fitness, sleep, heart rate, and cycle health data. The coach can generate dynamic, tailored fitness plans that adapt in real time to the user's performance and schedule. Google states that all data processed by the Health Coach remains private and secure, though the company has not detailed the specific encryption or anonymization methods.
The Fitbit Air launches with three wristband options: a micro-adjustable Performance Loop Band, a sweatproof Active silicone band, and an Elevated Modern Band that turns the device into a fashion accessory. A chest strap or other body placements are not yet available, but Chandra confirmed that more accessories are in development. The device is water-resistant to 50 meters (but not officially waterproof), making it suitable for swimming and showering.
Battery life is rated at up to one week, with fast charging that provides one day of power in just five minutes. A full charge takes about 90 minutes. The charger uses a magnetic bi-directional design, similar to the Pixel Watch 4's charger, eliminating orientation hassles.
Google has also partnered with basketball star Stephen Curry, its "Performance Advisor," to create a special edition of the Air. This version features a raised interior print for increased airflow, signature Curry design details, and an added water-resistant coating. It costs $130 and includes three months of Google Health Premium. All purchases of the Fitbit Air — including the special edition — come with the same three-month subscription. Shipping begins on May 26.
The launch of the Fitbit Air marks a strategic move by Google to compete with established screenless wearables like Whoop and Oura, while leveraging its AI ecosystem. The device's emphasis on passive tracking and AI-driven coaching reflects a broader industry trend toward holistic health management, where data is synthesized into actionable insights rather than displayed raw on a screen. Google's integration of Gemini — its large language model — into health coaching further positions the Air as a gateway for consumers to interact with AI in their daily wellness routines. The success of the device will likely depend on how well users adopt conversational AI for long-term fitness planning and whether the Health Coach delivers genuinely useful advice beyond what traditional tracking already provides.
Source: Engadget News