Google has officially announced the Fitbit Air, a screenless wearable that takes direct inspiration from Whoop's popular fitness trackers. The device, which was teased in March, is now available for pre-order starting at $100. It is designed to be worn on a wristband, chest strap, or even as a necklace depending on the accessory, though initial options are limited to wristbands. The Fitbit Air represents Google's latest push into the health and fitness wearables market, building on the company's acquisition of Fitbit in 2021 and integrating advanced artificial intelligence features.

Design and Comfort

The Fitbit Air is notably smaller than previous Fitbit models. According to Rishi Chandra, Google's general manager for Health, the device is 25 percent smaller than the Fitbit Luxe and 50 percent smaller than the Inspire 3. It weighs just 12 grams (0.42 ounces) with a band and 5.2 grams (0.18 ounces) without, making it exceptionally lightweight. Google claims the Air was rated more comfortable than leading competitors in an independent consumer perception study conducted last year, which examined popular wearables in the United States. The company emphasizes a "secure, micro-adjustable fit" that aims to make the device unnoticeable during daily activities, exercise, and sleep.

The device lacks any buttons or a screen, relying entirely on passive data collection and smartphone connectivity. This design choice allows for a minimalist form factor that can be worn inconspicuously. Three band options are available at launch: the Performance Loop Band (micro-adjustable), the Active Silicone Band (sweatproof and wetproof), and the Elevated Modern Band (styled as a fashionable bracelet). All bands are designed to keep the Air securely on the wrist. The device is water-resistant up to 50 meters, though not officially waterproof. Google has indicated that more accessory options, including chest straps, may be introduced in the future.

Health and Fitness Tracking

The Fitbit Air monitors heart rate continuously, using that data to log sleep, track sleep stages, and assign a nightly Sleep Score. It can also detect signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib) through irregular heart rhythm notifications and provides insights into heart rate variability (HRV) and its overall impact on wellbeing. Google states that the Air's algorithms are powered by advanced machine learning models that are 15 percent more accurate than previous versions, and the Sleep Score has been refined to better reflect recovery.

Activity tracking is mostly automated. The device can auto-detect common exercises such as biking (both stationary and outdoor), running, walking, rowing, elliptical, and other high-heart-rate sports. For over 40 additional activities, users can manually start tracking through the companion app. These include aerobics, circuit training, canoeing, dancing, kickboxing, yoga, and more. If an activity isn't logged automatically, users can add it from a library of more than 140 options, including archery, assault biking, badminton, cricket, curling, and household chores. Real-time heart rate and other stats are displayed on the user's phone during workouts.

The device also tracks weekly cardio load, readiness scores, steps, distance traveled, and exercise time. A vibration motor enables a silent alarm feature, waking users at optimal points in their sleep cycle through Google's Smart Wake functionality. With an estimated battery life of up to one week, the Air can be fast-charged to gain a day's power in just five minutes, reaching a full charge in approximately 90 minutes. The charger is magnetic and bi-directional, simplifying the charging process.

AI Integration: Google Health Coach

The Fitbit Air's name includes the letters A and I, reflecting its deep integration with artificial intelligence. Central to the experience is the Google Health Coach, a feature first introduced in public preview in October 2025. This AI-powered assistant, built on Google's Gemini platform, allows users to have natural conversations with the Google Health app. The coach can provide personalized suggestions based on collected data, such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and activity history.

According to Google, the Health Coach creates dynamic, tailored fitness plans that adapt to each user's goals, lifestyle, and real-time performance. The coach can incorporate data from Cycle Health and other vital medical information, though Google emphasizes that all data remains private and secure. This integration marks a significant step in making health tracking more interactive and customized, moving beyond passive data collection to proactive coaching and insights.

Pricing and Availability

The standard Google Fitbit Air is available for pre-order at $100. A special edition in collaboration with NBA star Stephen Curry, who serves as Google's "Performance Advisor," is priced at $130. The special edition features a raised interior print for increased airflow and signature Curry design details, along with an additional water-resistant coating. Every purchase of the Fitbit Air includes three months of Google Health Premium, which provides access to advanced metrics and coaching features. Devices are scheduled to begin shipping on May 26, 2026.

Source: Engadget News