Google has launched the Fitbit Ace LTE as an ideal smartwatch for kids. It may look like it runs Wear OS, but it’s actually a completely bespoke experience. It’s a smartwatch adapted for the daily lives of the little ones and to avoid worries for parents. The wearable focuses on promoting physical activity through a system of games and rewards.
The Fitbit Ace LTE is built around an OLED screen (333 ppi) protected by Gorilla Glass 3. Its case combines stainless steel and recycled plastic. Although it is focused on children, the watch includes some specs inherited from the Pixel Watch 2. There’s a Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage.
Fitbit Ace LTE will allow you to stay connected with your kids
To take advantage of the device’s LTE support, there is a built-in microphone. Together with a speaker, it will allow communication between parents and children through calls, messages, and voice notes. You can set a list of up to 20 approved contacts with whom the child can communicate. There are also no ads, third-party apps, or in-app purchases.
The watch boasts the same heart rate sensor as the Pixel Watch 2. However, the ECG one was removed as it is not necessary for children. That said, there are other multiple sensors such as altimeter, accelerometer, ambient light, gyroscope, and magnetometer. The Fitbit Ace LTE offers over 16 hours of battery life (328 mAh cell) using LTE capabilities and hours of gaming. These figures will be reduced if you activate the AOD feature. The included charging base is similar to the Fitbit Sense 2.
For connectivity, in addition to 4G LTE support, there is Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and GPS. The device is certified for 5 ATM (50 meters) resistance, making it submersible in water. There are two physical buttons, of which the top button offers access to all functions. The watch includes a bumper for extra protection against shocks.
A watch designed around movement-based games
One of the main attractions of the Fitbit Ace LTE is its movement-based games that encourage physical activity in kids. There are multiple games that require actions such as running, moving your arms, rotating your wrists, etc. The moves emulate the actions required by the particular game (such as fishing, golf, etc.). Each game is developed with colorful 3D graphics and detailed animations that encourage progress.
The watch was developed around games as the main idea, and the Eejies are proof of this. Eejies are characters that will be constantly present on different screens. For example, when checking physical activity data. The state of the Eejies reflects the child’s level of physical activity, becoming healthier and happier as they meet their goals.
To further encourage progress in the games, there is a reward system. Kids will unlock items that will allow them to customize the look of their Eejies. They will also unlock accessories for the Bit Valley, home of the Eejies. To ensure that children do not get distracted, parents can limit the hours of play through the “School Time” option.
A new algorithm developed for children’s movement
Google claims that the Fitbit Ace LTE integrates a new algorithm that “better and more accurately measures kids’ physical activity throughout the day.” Of course, the watch will also allow parents to know the location of their children. All watch settings are accessible through the Ace app.
For added interactivity, the watch has a patented interchangeable band system. Each new band will load new items to personalize the Eejies and Bit Valley.
Fitbit Ace LTE price and availability
The Fitbit Ace LTE is available to pre-order for $229.95. It can be purchased directly on June 5. There are two colors: Spicy Pebble (green) and Mild Pebble (dark gray). Until August 31, buyers will receive 50% off Fitbit Ace Pass and an additional free band.
The regular price for the Fitbit Ace Pass is $119.99/year or $9.99/month. This subscription is mandatory to enjoy all LTE-based services and Fitbit Arcade games. Lastly, there are six additional bands to purchase separately: These bands are: Strange Arcade, Moovin’, Spooky Pubs, Glitterbomb Skate, Camp Nightmare, and Courtside.