Google’s Fitbit has introduced the Fitbit Ace LTE, a new smartwatch designed specifically for children aged seven and older. This innovative device, packed with child-friendly features and robust parental controls, aims to enhance safety and activity monitoring. Here’s an in-depth look at what the Fitbit Ace LTE has to offer.
Real-Time Connectivity and Safety Features
The standout feature of the Fitbit Ace LTE is its built-in LTE connectivity. This allows the smartwatch to connect with the Fitbit Ace companion app on both iOS and Android devices. Parents can track their child’s location in real-time, make calls, and send and receive text and voice messages. This connectivity ensures that parents have peace of mind, knowing they can always reach their children and monitor their whereabouts.
Availability and Pricing
The Fitbit Ace LTE is available for pre-orders in the United States at a price of $229.95, with general sales beginning on June 5. While there is no confirmed release date for other markets, Google has indicated that the smartwatch will be available in select regions outside the US later this year.
To use the LTE features, consumers need to subscribe to the Fitbit Ace Pass data plan, priced at $9.99 per month or $119.99 annually. This subscription is necessary to enable the LTE connectivity, making the device fully functional for communication and tracking.
Kid-Friendly Features and Design
Google has equipped the Fitbit Ace LTE with several features designed to engage and motivate children. The smartwatch includes interactive games that progress with real-life activity and movements, encouraging kids to stay active. Customizable creatures called “Eejies” respond to the child’s movements, providing a fun way to motivate physical activity. Additionally, a new activity ring called “noodles” tracks steps, jumps, and other physical activities, giving children a visual representation of their progress.
Parental Controls and Safety
For parents, the Fitbit Ace LTE offers comprehensive controls through the Fitbit Ace app. Only parents can access their child’s location and location history, which is automatically deleted after 24 hours to ensure privacy. Activity data is also deleted after 35 days. The smartwatch does not support third-party apps, and only parents can add contacts for calling and messaging, ensuring that the child’s interactions are safe and monitored. Other features include Tap to Pay for easy transactions and a School Time mode that minimizes distractions during school hours.
Durability and Customization
The Fitbit Ace LTE is built to withstand the rough and tumble of children’s activities. It is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and the watch includes a bumper for added ruggedness. Google offers the smartwatch in six collectible band styles, each with a different theme and user interface, allowing children to personalize their device.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smartwatch, and the Fitbit Ace LTE does not disappoint. It offers more than 16 hours of battery life on a full charge. Additionally, the fast charging feature provides up to 11 hours of battery life with just a 30-minute charge, ensuring minimal downtime and continuous usage throughout the day.
In summary, the Fitbit Ace LTE is a comprehensive smartwatch designed to keep kids active and safe while providing parents with the necessary tools to monitor their children. With its robust set of features, durable design, and focus on child safety, the Fitbit Ace LTE is set to become a popular choice among parents looking for a reliable smartwatch for their kids.
