Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Tech Advisor reports that the new Fitbit Air fitness tracker is experiencing pairing issues for Android users due to the Google Health app requiring an update to version 5.0.
- The device offers a budget-friendly alternative at £84.99/$99.99 compared to the Whoop Strap 5.0’s mandatory £160/$199 annual subscription requirement.
- Google is actively addressing the Android app rollout while iOS users can already update, with future Google Health updates enabling Apple Health integration.
Google’s latest screenless fitness tracker, the Fitbit Air, has just been released. Some early users who managed to get their hands on it have faced difficulties pairing the device with their smartphones.
The issue mainly affects Android users who have not updated their Google Health app to version 5.0. When attempting to connect the Air to their phones, they receive an “app update required” error message.
According to GSMArena, the problem has sparked discussions on Reddit and prompted an official statement from Google: “We are working to expedite the rollout of the updated app on Android via Play Store to accommodate early deliveries. iOS users can already update through the App Store.”
Thomas Deehan / Foundry
While some users have found temporary solutions by side-loading the Google Health app, Google aims to provide a permanent fix before the widespread release of the Fitbit Air to pre-order customers.
Addressing a user query, Google confirmed that data sharing between Google Health and Apple Health and Apple Fitness apps is in the pipeline.
A new age for fitness tracking
Aside from the connectivity issues, the Fitbit Air has sparked discussions on its potential to rival the established Whoop Strap 5.0 in the screenless fitness tracker market.
Priced at £84.99/$99.99, the Fitbit Air significantly undercuts the Whoop Strap, which requires a hefty annual subscription starting at £160/$199 for full functionality.
Although the Fitbit Air offers a subscription option with Google Health Premium, it is not mandatory for core tracking features. The premium tier provides access to Health Coach, an AI-powered personal trainer for workout planning and calorie tracking.
