Fitbit Edge Launches at €179 With AMOLED Screen and Built-in GPS
Fewer than one percent of Fitbit Charge 6 owners used NFC, according to Google usage data cited by Android Authority. That low figure drove Google’s deliberate design choice to omit NFC from the new Fitbit Edge, which arrived on the market at a price of €180, The Irish Times reported. The device features a 1.34-inch AMOLED colour screen and built-in GPS, positioning it between screenless bands and full smartwatches like the Pixel Watch 5.
The Edge supports essential apps such as Google Maps and tracks workouts without requiring a nearby phone. However, users cannot sync playlists offline, meaning a phone remains necessary for music playback. All collected health data feeds into the Google Health app, which monitors sleep, activity trends, heart rate variability, and blood oxygen levels. Buyers receive three months of Google Health Premium free before the subscription fee of €9 per month takes effect. The Health Guardian software monitors high and low heart rate alerts on the base tier, while a subscription unlocks blood pressure trends, insulin resistance data, and sleep quality insights.
Google Omits NFC While Readers Push Back in Polls
The absence of NFC prevents users from utilizing Google Pay for contactless transactions at transit gates or retail counters. While older models such as the Fitbit Charge 6, Charge 5, Charge 4, and special editions of the Charge 3 included NFC, the feature is absent on both the new Edge and the screenless Fitbit Air. Google prioritized adding an altimeter to the Edge instead of retaining NFC.
Google has launched its new Fitbit Edge ✅A large OLED display ✅Advanced health tracking and built-in GPS ✅Replaceable battery ✅7 days of battery life ❌Lacks NFC payments 💰Starts at $180 in the US Would you rather have a screen on your fitness tracker, or would you… pic.twitter.com/hXf2jSL3hV
That hardware omission sparked heavy debate across online forums and consumer platforms. Android Authority reported on a reader poll showing that 54 percent of 1,116 respondents wished the Fitbit Edge included NFC, sharply contradicting the company’s sub-one-percent usage metric. Survey participants who favor the exclusion noted that they never utilize watch-payment systems anyway, aligning with Google’s analytics rationale.
Google introduces user replaceable battery for Fitbit Edge
Google rates the battery life of the Fitbit Edge at seven days under normal usage conditions. Intensive workout tracking drains the power reserve rapidly, though a brief charge restores a couple of days of operation. The tracker ships with a silicone band, though third-party options remain scarce and official Google bands are currently expensive.
The device introduces a user-replaceable battery, a first for a Google tracker, though watch-repair experience is required to maintain the IP68 water resistance rating. Users can install up to six watch faces from a selection of 13 available options inside the Google Health app.
Common Questions About the Fitbit Edge
Does the Fitbit Edge support contactless payments?
No. Google removed the NFC chip because user data from the Charge 6 indicated that fewer than 1 percent of owners utilized tap-to-pay functionality.
How much does the Fitbit Edge cost in Ireland?
The fitness tracker is priced at €179 and is available through retailers such as Harvey Norman, as reported by The Irish Times.
What health subscription comes with the device?
Buyers receive a three-month free trial of Google Health Premium, which costs €9 per month thereafter unless bundled with an existing Google subscription.
Can you track runs without a phone?
Yes, the device includes built-in GPS for mapping runs independently, but users still need a phone for offline music synchronization.
More on Fitbit Edge
Introducing Fitbit Edge, our next-generation health and fitness tracker. Featuring sleek design, a brilliant display, glanceable fitness guidance and advanced health tracking to support your wellness goals. It's designed for both active lifestyles and everyday wear. pic.twitter.com/DQj21AKSNQ
Google Fitbit Edge is official at $179.99. Highlights: • OLED display and ECG • Built-in GPS and Google Maps • Up to 7 days of battery life • Replaceable battery No NFC, mic or speaker. India launch details are awaited.#Google #Fitbit pic.twitter.com/pu4lJDkjfz
Google announces $179 Fitbit Edge tracker with display, GPS https://t.co/eBWiNeX4cb by @technacity
Google has launched Fitbit Edge and here's everything you need to know – 1.34" AMOLED Display with AOD – 65mAh Battery, up to 7 days battery life – 100% battery in 90mins – Ambiq AP5 MCU Chip – 64MB Storage – BT 5.4, Built-in GPS – Side Button – 100% Recycled Aluminum Case,… pic.twitter.com/biCr3MgPcn