Fitbit , now a Google firebrand , is reportedly working on a wearable gimmick for preteens . Business Insiderreportsthat it is internally code - named Project Eleven . The team behind the gadget calculate to “ help one-time Thomas Kid work levelheaded relationships with their phones and social media . ”
Google ’s Australian Fitbit squad is guide the project . The machine will have GPS and cellular connectivity — a leg up over the current kid - centric Fitbit machine like the Ace 3 , which only rail action . The wearable will also offer location trailing and the ability to call an adult with the touch of a button . The gadget wo n’t require a smartphone to make on the go .
As with the rest of the Fitbit lineup , Project Eleven will “ promote physical activeness ” akin to the Ace 3 , which currently enables activity tracking and buzzes every 50 minutes to prompt kid to get up and move . The gimmick will launch sometime in 2024 , though an employee observe in the report emphasize that there ’s still work to do before the machine can come to fruition .
The Fitbit Ace 3 is the company’s current wearable offering for kids.Image: Fitbit
Fitbit is interested in woo tiddler to demonstrate them as next customers . “ They talk a set about want to pursue the teen marketplace , ” an employee recite Business Insider .
GoogleacquiredFitbit a twelvemonth ago . It has long had its Wear bone platform for Android user wanting to tether a smartwatch , but it lacked the seaworthiness and body process - tracking expertise that helped other smartwatches follow in the manufacture . Last calendar week , Fitbit announced in ablog postthat it would take on to its iconic moniker even as it develops novel devices under Google .
At this point , I ’m not particularly bother about tracking a child around township . I’vewrittenbefore that I can see the benefit in it with my shaver . The equipment I fit her with even countenance me remotely call for help to her location . Smartwatches like the Apple Watch already aid chase after kids through GPS without tether a smartphone , while carriers like Verizon offer the Gizmo smartwatch to give kids a fashion to call home from their wrist .
I am a bit concerned about the fitness - centric branding of Fitbit , however , as it relate to kids — particularly preteens . Eating disordersare common among that geezerhood group , and a smartwatch or bracelet fitness tracker can be a pregnant trigger for disordered eat . The Fitbit Ace 3 does n’t presently count small calorie for youngster . Hopefully , Fitbit observe it that path , despite the parentsdesperately askingfor a calorie counter .
Daily Newsletter
Get the best technical school , science , and culture news in your inbox daily .
News from the future , delivered to your present tense .
Please select your want newssheet and submit your email to upgrade your inbox .
You May Also Like
