Google has unveiled the new Fitbit Charge 5, its first major release since acquiring Fitbit earlier this year. The new model comes with a slimmer profile, upgraded display and a six-month subscription to the expanded Fitbit Premium services included in the price. The company also signed up actor Will Smith as the new ambassador for the Fitbit brand.
Ten percent thinner than its predecessor released over a year ago, the Charge 5 has an aerodynamic design, new Amoled colour display and up to seven days battery life. This is the first Fitbit with an always-on display option, and the display is also two-times brighter than its predecessor, the company said. It comes with a choice of lightweight silicone infinity bands, breathable sport bands, plush nylon hook and loop bands, and hand-crafted premium Horween leather bands.
Software features include the Health Metrics dashboard, sleep tools, contactless payments and a Stress Management Score, based on data collected from the various sensors on the device. Soon the Charge also will support Fitbit's ECG feature. Since launching the ECG app on the Fitbit Sense, users have taken more than four million assessments, the company said.
The Charge 5 is available to pre-order for USD 180 and will be in stores from this fall. It comes with a six-month subscription to Fitbit Premium.
Daily Readiness Score on Fitbit Premium
Available with all Fitbit devices, Fitbit Premium helps users get more out of their device with additional analytics, workouts and tips. New features coming to Premium include a Daily Readiness Score, based on sleep, heart rate and other activity data, to help plan the next workout or focus on recovery. This will be available in 18 languages to start with the Charge 5 launch this fall.
Premium members also get access to more than 200 audio and video workouts available from any device, from brands like Aaptiv, Barre3, Daily Burn, Les Mills, Obe, Physique 57and Popsugar. In addition, Fitbit agreed a new partnership with the app Calm to give Premium subscribers access to meditation and relaxation techniques.
Fitbit also will offer exclusive content developed with Will Smith on Fitbit Premium and its social media channels, including the upcoming YouTube Originals docuseries 'Best Shape of My Life'. This includes a focus on both physical and mental fitness, with the first session available from 27 September.
