FCC filing hints at new Google fitness tracker
A mysterious device filed with regulators suggests Google is developing a slim wearable with a screen, potentially filling the gap between its smartwatch and basic bands.
A recently filed document with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) offers the clearest look yet at a potential new wearable from Google. The device, listed under a model number that follows Google's naming conventions, appears to be a hybrid between a traditional smartwatch and a slim fitness band. While Google has not officially announced the product, its presence in regulatory databases suggests it is moving toward a commercial launch.
The filing reveals key technical details, including the presence of a display and GPS capabilities. Notably, the device lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, a choice that distinguishes it from other Google wearables like the Pixel Watch. This omission suggests a focus on battery life and offline functionality, typical of fitness-focused hardware rather than full-featured smartwatches. The device is manufactured by Weifang Goertek Electronics, a company that has previously built the Fitbit Air for Google.
Regulatory clues point to Wear OS
The most telling detail in the filing is the method required to access regulatory information. Users are instructed to navigate through a menu path common to Wear OS devices, specifically Settings > System > Regulatory Information. This implies the device runs on Google's smartwatch operating system, which requires a screen for interaction. This rules out simple, screenless trackers and confirms the hardware includes a visual interface for users to navigate menus and view data.
Balancing features and battery life
The absence of Wi-Fi is a significant trade-off. While it limits the device's ability to sync data or receive updates without a paired phone, it likely extends battery life and reduces complexity. For a fitness tracker, this is a practical choice, prioritizing the core functions of activity tracking and GPS navigation over constant internet connectivity. The inclusion of Bluetooth ensures it can still communicate with smartphones for notifications and data transfer, maintaining its role as a companion device.
Positioning against existing Fitbit products
Given the manufacturer and design, the device is likely a successor to the Fitbit Charge series, which combines a screen with fitness tracking features. It is unlikely to be the upcoming Pixel Tag, a simple locator device, because the Pixel Tag does not feature a screen for user interaction. This new device appears to target users who want the advanced analytics and operating system of a smartwatch but prefer the slim, lightweight form factor of a fitness band.
