Hajra Naz
Google launched the screen-less Fitbit Air fitness tracker in India on Wednesday. The company priced it at ₹13,999 (roughly $146). This pricing positions the device as a premium offering. For comparison, the same device costs just $99 in the U.S.
Fitbit Air was originally unveiled back in May. The device features comprehensive health and fitness tracking capabilities. That includes 24/7 heart rate monitoring. It also includes heart rhythm monitoring, complete with A-fib (atrial fibrillation) alerts. The device tracks blood oxygen levels too. It monitors resting heart rate and heart rate variability as well. Sleep stages and sleep duration round out its tracking capabilities.
This device’s screen-less design taps into a growing trend. Many people are shying away from screens these days. They’re opting instead for distraction-free health gadgets. That includes Whoop’s fitness bands. It also includes Oura’s rings. Still, this new Fitbit device offers something different. It’s designed to be more pocket-friendly than these alternatives.
The health tracking space now includes several screenless devices. That includes options from Garmin. It also includes Luffu Link, a new company founded by former Fitbit founders. Indian startups have entered this space too. That includes Noise and Urban. These companies have been trying to undercut Western rivals on price specifically.
Read More: Google’s New Fitbit Air Turns Your Wrist Into a Pokémon Sleep Tracker
Research firm IDC shared relevant context in its global wearables report. Despite declining wristband shipment numbers overall, screen-less trackers are carving out a genuine niche. Still, India presents a smaller opportunity currently.
According to Counterpoint Research, India accounts for only 5% of the screenless wearable market globally. A device priced as a premium product might struggle to make a significant dent in overall numbers. This holds even with a recognizable name like Fitbit or Google behind it.
The Fitbit Air is available for purchase starting October 2. Customers can buy it through the Google Store. Several retail partners carry it too. That includes Flipkart, Croma, Reliance Digital, and Vijay Sales. Google is also offering an incentive with this launch. Buyers get a free, three-month Google Health premium membership included with the new band.
