TECHNOLOGY
The Fitbit Edge, priced at $180, offers advanced health tracking features but does not include NFC.
Google has released the Fitbit Edge, a new smartwatch priced at $179.99 that features advanced health monitoring capabilities and a larger display. However, the device does not include NFC functionality, which may disappoint some potential users.
The 1.34-inch AMOLED display offers an improved viewing experience compared to its predecessor, the Fitbit Inspire 3. It features built-in GPS, allowing users to track movements without needing to bring their smartphones. The Edge supports more than 50 exercise modes and includes advanced health tracking features such as ECG and continuous heart rate monitoring.
Unlike many smartwatches, the Fitbit Edge runs on Fitbit OS rather than Wear OS, which limits third-party app compatibility. The device has a physical button for easier navigation and is built with a 100% recycled aluminum case, designed to resemble a standard watch. The Edge is available in several colors, including a special Stephen Curry edition.
Battery life for the Edge is estimated at up to seven days; however, using the always-on display can reduce this significantly, with reports suggesting it may last as little as two days under heavy use. The device is rated for water resistance up to 5 ATM and has an IP68 dust resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and exercise.
Some reviewers note the Fitbit Edge’s improved features compared to the Inspire 3, but the lack of NFC is a significant omission. NFC would allow for contactless payments, a feature increasingly common in modern smartwatches. This absence has left some experts questioning its overall value against competitors in the market.
Despite this, the Fitbit Edge is positioned as a versatile fitness tracker that appeals to users seeking a balance between basic tracking and smartwatch capabilities. According to TechPP, it remains an attractive option for those focused on health and fitness.
As of now, Google has not clarified whether NFC will be available in future updates or iterations of the Fitbit Edge, leaving the device’s long-term appeal uncertain for potential buyers.
Sources
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Readhis insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.