Google is ready to bet on the idea that less is more, and to do so, it’s planning to emulate one of the most popular fitness wearable brands.
For years now, the battle has been about who can fit the most features in their smartwatch and fitness band, the best connectivity with the companion device, screen sizes, AI tech, and more.
Google-owned Fitbit, however, wants to go screen less.
The development was highlighted by Bloomberg, though around the same time, Google’s ‘Performance Advisor,’ Stephen Curry, also teased the device on social media.
According to the Bloomberg report, Google aims to release the screen less Fitbit band sometime later this year. The tech giant will reportedly go the subscription route, but still offer some basic functionality to free users. “The device will include basic features and require a paid subscription to unlock more functionality,” reads the Bloomberg report.
This won’t be Fitbit’s first screen-less wearable
Curry’s Instagram post caption, on the other hand, reads: “I won’t spoil it. You kinda have to see it for yourself.” The short video clearly highlights the Whoop-like wearable. “I’m excited for what this is going to mean for the world, for health, and wellness. It’s a first of its kind in a way,” says Curry in the short clip.
The band would follow the 2016-released Fitbit Flex 2 as the second wrist wearable device to ditch the display. This should not only allow the upcoming wearable to boast great battery life, it should also promote a distraction-free experience over digital noise.
Via the Fitbit app, new features like the ability to link medical records, Cycle Health, Mental Wellbeing, and even Nutrition and Water Logging will be offered for free. Features like Ask Coach and custom fitness plans, on the other hand, will likely remain exclusive to Premium users.
With the wearable expected to launch sometime this year, expect more leaks and rumors about the device to become more common.
