Dubai: In a major shift from traditional smartwatches, Google has introduced the new Fitbit Air — a lightweight fitness tracker with no screen at all. The device is designed to focus entirely on health monitoring and wellness tracking rather than notifications, apps or constant digital interaction, according to reports monitored by Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 Malayalam radio station.
Priced at $99, Fitbit Air offers around-the-clock heart-rate monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, sleep-stage analysis, heart rhythm alerts for atrial fibrillation, heart-rate variability tracking and up to one week of battery life.
Unlike smartwatches that rely heavily on displays and app interactions, Fitbit Air works quietly in the background. Users can view their health data through a connected smartphone app, where AI-powered tools analyse trends related to sleep, stress, recovery and overall wellness.
A New Direction for Wearables
The launch reflects a growing trend in wearable technology. Companies are increasingly moving away from turning watches into miniature smartphones and instead focusing on passive health tracking devices that minimise distractions.
Screenless devices from brands like Whoop and Oura have gained popularity among athletes and users seeking deeper health insights without constant notifications or screen time.
Google appears to be following the same strategy with Fitbit Air.
Fitbit Becoming Part of Google’s AI Health Ecosystem
Industry reports suggest Google is also integrating Fitbit into a larger Google Health ecosystem powered by Gemini AI technology. Future updates are expected to offer personalised coaching, health suggestions and recovery recommendations based on long-term biometric data collected from users.
The company’s move signals a new identity for Fitbit after Google acquired the brand in 2021. While the Google Pixel Watch continues to serve the smartwatch market, Fitbit Air positions Fitbit as a simpler, health-focused wearable brand.
UAE Launch Expected Later This Year
Fitbit Air is expected to launch first in major Western markets from mid-May. Google has not yet officially confirmed pricing or availability for the UAE and wider Middle East region, though reports indicate a regional launch could happen later this year.
— Reported by Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 Malayalam radio station.
