Google has rolled out a fresh set of updates to its excellent Fitbit Ace LTE kids' watch, as it aggressively enhances its offering for younger users.
While Google is scaling back its Fitbit hardware lineup, the Fitbit Ace LTE is the only new Fitbit-branded device the company has launched in 2024, and it continues to gain new software features.
First up, there are new games and quests for the device, which should help keep things engaging for younger users. This includes movement-based rewards for Thanksgiving, as well as 50 new movement-related quests launched in partnership with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. There’s also a new movement game in the Arcade called Solar Sword.
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Google has also added a chat feature, enabling family-based group conversations, making it easier for families to stay connected. Siblings can now chat privately as well. The offering is also becoming more attractive for families with multiple children, as Google is now offering a second Ace Pass at 50% off.
The changes follow the addition of new payment features, allowing kids to make approved payments using family debit cards, along with the introduction of school-time modes to minimize distractions during class.
Wareable says
The Fitbit Ace LTE represents a significant leap forward for kids’ smartwatches, which have often been overlooked by major brands. In China, kids’ smartwatches with location and chat features are a booming market, but the need for a data plan has hindered their adoption in the West. The Ace LTE has paved the way, although its availability has so far been limited to the US.
There are also whispers that Apple might follow suit with a more child-friendly version of the Apple Watch SE. While Apple’s Family Setup feature enables older LTE watches to function as kids’ devices, its current features for children aren’t as compelling as Fitbit’s—at least not yet.
