First Look: Google’s New Fitbit Air Arrives

Google’s latest health and fitness wearable, the Google Fitbit Air, was unveiled last week and is already available for pre-order, with shipments expected around May 26. Priced at either $99 or $129 depending on the model, this screen-less tracker is designed to compete directly with WHOOP. It also serves as the launchpad for the new Google Health app and Google Health Coach, marking a major pivot in Google’s wellness strategy.

This release represents a significant moment for Google in the fitness space. For the first time, we’re seeing a Google-branded Fitbit device alongside the transformation of the Fitbit app into Google Health. It’s clear that Google views health tracking as a high-priority investment, and this product essentially serves as a full relaunch of that ecosystem.

Review units began arriving this week, and ours has landed. Google sent us the Steph Curry edition, which retails for $129, along with two additional band styles: the Performance Loop and the Active Band.

Before we dive into a full review, we wanted to share a first look at the device itself, how it wears on the wrist, and what we’ll be testing in the coming days.

The unit pictured above is the Special Edition Stephen Curry model, featuring a “Rye” colored band. The extra $30 price tag comes from the band’s water-resistant construction and subtle Steph Curry branding. Notably, this specific band is exclusive to the Curry edition and cannot be purchased separately, at least for now.

The other bands provided include a Performance Loop Band in “Fog” and an Active Band in “Lavender.” Each sells for $34.99 individually, but if you opt for the Fitbit Air “Classic” at $99, it includes a Performance Loop band by default.

The Performance Loop Band is crafted from recycled polyester and elastane yarn, featuring a steel clasp that wraps around both the device and your wrist, secured with velcro. In contrast, the Active Band is made from sweat- and water-resistant silicone, fastening with a pin and tucking neatly underneath itself. It resembles a Pixel Watch Active Band but adds a ribbed texture for extra style.

We also got a look at the charger. The Fitbit Air attaches magnetically to two pins, and it works from either direction, so you won’t need to fiddle with alignment. An LED indicator on the device shows battery status at a glance.

According to the specs, the battery lasts up to 7 days on a single charge and can go from 0 to 100% in about 90 minutes. A quick 5-minute charge provides enough power for a full day of use.

For anyone unfamiliar, the Fitbit Air includes an optical heart rate monitor, a 3-axis accelerometer and gyroscope, red and infrared sensors for SpO2 tracking, a skin temperature sensor, and a vibration motor for alarms. It’s rated for water resistance up to 50 meters and connects via Bluetooth 5.0 to both iOS and Android devices. Every purchase also includes three months of Google Health Premium, offering a preview of the Google Health Coach service.

Now, we’ll put it through its paces and report back with a full review soon. We’re genuinely excited about what this device represents for Google’s health ambitions.