Google Health 5.0 arrives with new stats widget for Android
▼ Summary
– Google Health 5.0 replaces the circular Steps widget on Android with a new Quick Access Widget that mirrors stats from the Today tab.
– The Quick Access Widget has a maximum layout of 5×3 and can display up to six metrics, with the option to remove rings for a denser display.
– Tapping the widget opens the full stats page; the heart icon opens the app, and the Health Coach and refresh options are also accessible.
– The update introduces a new Google Health icon and removes Fitbit branding, reserving it for hardware only.
– Version 5.0 is required to set up the Fitbit Air at launch, with the Android rollout starting May 19 and full availability by May 26.
The latest update to the Google Health app is now rolling out as an upgrade to the existing Fitbit application, bringing a significant new feature to Android users. Google Health 5.0 introduces a redesigned homescreen Quick Access Widget that replaces the old circular Steps widget.
This new widget pulls directly from the focus section at the top of the Today tab, displaying exactly the metrics you have prioritized. It can occupy up to a 5×3 grid on your home screen, showcasing as many as six different stats at once. If you prefer a more compact look, you can remove the Steps or Weekly cardio ring to create a denser interface. Tapping any stat opens the full details page, and the widget can even be shrunk down to show just a single metric.
A heart icon in the top-left corner provides a quick launch into the app itself. To the right, you can jump straight to the Health Coach, and a refresh button is also available. The widget prominently displays the last update time in the center, keeping you informed of data freshness.
Beyond the widget, this version introduces the new Google Health icon and fully removes all Fitbit branding from the app itself. Fitbit branding will now be reserved exclusively for the hardware lineup.
Version 5.0 is a mandatory update for anyone planning to set up the Fitbit Air when it launches next week. On Android, the rollout of the Google Health app began on May 19, with full availability expected by May 26.
(Source: 9to5google.com)
