The Edge uses the same charger as the Fitbit Air.
Credit: Google
The Edge uses the same charger as the Fitbit Air.
Credit: Google
The Edge will ship with a collection of fitness-focused experiences and watch faces, and you won’t be able to download more. While it looks a lot like the Pixel Watch’s software, it’s not a full version of WearOS. It can mirror notifications from your phone, but there is no microphone or speaker. Responses are therefore limited to predefined quick responses. Likewise, there is no support for interactions with Gemini. The Edge also lacks NFC, so there’s no tap to pay with Google Wallet.
One notable improvement over the Fitbit Air is the on-device GPS. This allows you to track an outdoor activity without having to carry your phone during the trip. However, Google says it’s not as accurate as the Pixel Watch’s dual-band GPS radio. The Edge retains the Pixel Watch’s ECG and blood oxygen sensor, which you don’t get on the Air. The Edge also has an altimeter, an optical heart rate sensor, and a skin temperature sensor.
The metal band has an upsell of $150.
Credit: Google
The metal band has an upsell of $150.
Credit: Google
All of this data is transmitted via Bluetooth 5.4 to the Google Health (formerly Fitbit) app, feeding all your data into the Health Coach chatbot powered by Gemini. The device comes with three months of Google Health Premium, without which you won’t get the AI features. Of course, some would probably prefer to skip the AI. The Premium subscription costs $10 per month. It’s included with Google AI Pro, but you can disable Health Coach if you want.
Complements and creates synergies
Like the Pixel Watch, the Edge will come with the basic silicone Active Band for $180. There is also a special Stephen Curry edition available for $220. The Edge has a custom band connector similar to the Pixel Watch, but the plug is a different size. While there will eventually be third-party options, Google plans to have a line of additional bands at launch, including Active Sport (silicone with holes) for $40, Performance Loop (polyester fabric) for $50, Magnet Band (leather but still silicone) for $60, and a Metal Links Band for a whopping $150.
