Google Debuts Its First Smartwatch For Kids Who Aren’t Quite Ready For A Phone
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Google’s Fitbit has made a splash in the kid-tech market, and it’s about time it does so, with the Fitbit Ace LTE. This smartwatch is the first of its kind, balancing engaging features that motivate the little ones to be active with safety measures that give parents peace of mind.
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For kids aged seven and up, the Ace LTE is more than just a watch; it’s a companion on their fitness adventures. It gamifies activity through an adorable, virtual character named Noodle—Fitbit’s “ weirdest activity ring yet.”
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By tracking steps, jumps, and even bounces, Noodle helps young wearers reach their daily goals with playful animations and a sense of accomplishment, incentivizing them to keep moving.
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The Fitbit would also make for a viable beginner’s device before your kid eventually convinces you to get them a smartphone. It allows for limited calling, texting, and voice messaging with up to 20 approved contacts, managed through a companion app for parents.
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Apart from keeping child and caregiver connected, it also empowers users to be more independent, while remaining under parental control. Parents can also leverage the watch’s GPS capabilities to see their child’s location in real-time.
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Developed with leading child development experts, the Fitbit Ace LTE prioritizes safety and privacy. Only parents see a child’s location and activity data, which is automatically deleted after set periods. There are no in-app purchases or third-party access, and only pre-approved contacts can interact with the watch.
The Ace LTE goes beyond step counting with Eejies, virtual creatures that thrive on a child’s activity. As kids reach their objectives, their Eejie flourishes, which will motivate them to stay active. Completing activities and games unlocks arcade tickets for customizing their Eejie’s look and its Bit Valley home.
Image via Google
Image via Google
And it seems the fun extends inside-out. Each of the six collectable smartwatch bands comes with built-in technology that unlocks unique features and characters when attached, like a mini game cartridge. The blue Courtside band unveils a basketball world for the Eejie, while the green band introduces them to Wally, a spooky pug with a penchant for cosplay.
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The Fitbit Ace LTE is water-resistant up to 50 meters (164 feet) and touts a long-lasting battery. The high-resolution display is protected by scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and Google throws in a complimentary bumper for additional peace of mind.
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The Fitbit Ace LTE hits the Google Store and Amazon on June 5, with preorders available now for US$229.95. To unlock the full functionality, including calling, messaging, location sharing, and access to the ever-expanding Fitbit Arcade, a Fitbit Ace Pass is required. The Pass starts at US$9.99 per month, with annual subscriptions offering a discount and a free collectable band.
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[via DC Rainmaker and PCMag, images via Google]
