Google launches screenless Fitbit Air tracker with seven-day battery life

From children to adults, smartwatches are on nearly every wrist, and many people have tired of checking every message, notification and step count. Companies are now bringing out screenless fitness trackers, and Google has launched its Fitbit Air in this segment.

The device looks plain but is smart inside. The trend was started by Whoop, which was first worn by top cricketers and footballers, and then by company bosses and gym-goers. Whoop's valuation has now crossed 10 billion dollars. But its band is expensive and requires a monthly subscription, which is a burden for ordinary buyers. Google entered the field with the Fitbit Air for this reason.

Google says the Fitbit Air has improved health tracking and new heart-rate measurement technology. According to Google, sleep measurement is 15 per cent more accurate. The tracker can detect even a 20-minute afternoon nap, decides when the wearer should be woken, and shows a sleep score in simple terms.

The device has no screen, so users do not develop the habit of glancing at the band repeatedly. It also has automatic workout detection and recognises whether the wearer is walking, running or working out at a gym. All data goes directly to the Google Health app, which runs on both Android and iPhone.

Without a screen, the battery lasts well. A full charge gives seven days of use. A magnetic charger is supplied. Five minutes of charging gives a day's battery, while a full charge takes at least 90 minutes.

The Fitbit Air has been launched in the United States and some other countries and is getting a good response. Unlike Whoop, it has a low price and no monthly charge. Users who want more advanced features can take a subscription, but it is not mandatory. The box includes three months of Google Health Premium free, after which the wearer pays for the Health Coach only if they choose to.

Following Google, Garmin launched its own screenless band, called Cirqa, in July. Garmin is known for its GPS watches. It is said that Apple is also developing a similar band. In India, companies such as Noise have begun selling such bands.

The reason people are moving to simple bands is that watches such as the Apple Watch have a thousand features, of which users employ not even 10 per cent, and constant notifications are a nuisance. People now want something minimal that stays out of sight, does not disturb and only monitors health. The wearables market is changing: where everyone once wanted a smartwatch, they now want a simple, light, screenless band. The trend is said to grow further next year.