Fitbit Ace LTE: Google’s Latest Wear OS Device for Kids
Google has introduced the Fitbit Ace LTE, a new Wear OS smartwatch designed to motivate kids aged 7 and up to stay active and healthy. This device encourages physical activity through interactive games and also functions as a communication and real-time location tool for parents and children. To utilize cellular connectivity, access the Fitbit Arcade, and unlock additional features, a Fitbit Ace Pass subscription is necessary.
Design and Hardware
The Fitbit Ace LTE features a design similar to the Sense 2 and Versa 4, with a rounded square OLED display boasting 333 PPI and protected by Gorilla Glass 3. The package includes a raised plastic bumper for additional screen protection. The smartwatch’s housing is made from stainless steel and recycled plastic, combining durability with environmental consciousness.
Battery Life and Performance
The Ace LTE is powered by a 328 mAh battery, delivering over 16 hours of usage with LTE and gaming activities. The always-on display (AOD) can be enabled via the Settings app, though this will reduce battery life. The device focuses on essential functions for kids, excluding the Play Store, third-party apps, and advertisements.
Typical daily usage includes six five-minute gaming sessions, ten messages, three one-minute voice calls, five location checks, two payments, and four hours of Wi-Fi connectivity.
Specifications
| Feature | Pixel Watch 2 | Fitbit Ace LTE |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 320 PPI AMOLED | 333 PPI OLED |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Battery Life | 24 hours with AOD | 16+ hours with LTE, AOD off |
| Battery Capacity | 306 mAh | 328 mAh |
| Charging Time | 30 minutes to 50%, | 30 minutes to 60% (11 hours) |
| 43 minutes to 80%, | 70 minutes to 100% (16+ hours) | |
| 75 minutes to 100% | ||
| Housing | 100% recycled aluminum | Plastic, stainless steel, recycled materials |
| Price | $399.99 | $229.95 + subscription |
Gaming and Fitness Features
The Ace LTE introduces an innovative “interval-based gaming” approach that requires kids to be physically active to progress in games. Advancing to the next level or chapter in a game often requires additional movement.
Customizable characters called “Eejies” are central to the gaming experience. These virtual pets thrive on daily activity — the more kids move, the healthier and happier their Eejie becomes. Kids earn arcade tickets by completing daily activities, which can be used to customize their Eejie and their virtual home in Bit Valley, similar to “Animal Crossing.”
The Fitbit Arcade, powered by the Unity engine, offers engaging games such as “Smokey Lake,” where kids use their hand as a fishing pole, and “Pollo 11,” which involves navigating a chicken in a bathtub through space. These gesture-based games and puzzle challenges are designed to make physical activity fun. New games are added regularly.
Parental Controls and Smartwatch Features
The Ace LTE has two side buttons for accessing communication features, alarm clock, activity stats, and more. Google Wallet tap-to-pay will soon be available, allowing parents to set spending limits and receive real-time notifications.
The Ace LTE allows kids to message, call, and send voice memos to their parents and up to 20 approved contacts. These interactions are managed through a secure IP-based backend. Parents can view their child’s location and monitor their Move Goal progress for the past month using the Fitbit Ace app, available on Android and iOS. Location data is deleted after 24 hours, and activity history in the app is deleted after 35 days to ensure privacy.
Customization and Accessories
The bottom of the Ace LTE houses the band connector, familiar to Versa/Sense users, with a loop permanently attached at the top edge. The smartwatch recognizes the connected bands through a patented mechanism inspired by old Nintendo cartridges, which also loads new content for customizing the Eejie character.
There are six unique band options available, each with playful names such as Strange Arcade, Moovin’, Spooky Pubs, Glitterbomb Skate, Camp Nightmare, and Courtside. Additional bands will be released in the future.
Pricing and Availability
The Fitbit Ace LTE is priced at $229.95 and is available for pre-order on the Google Store and Amazon, with general availability starting June 5. The device comes in two color options: Spicy Pebble with the Moovin’ Band and Mild Pebble with the Strange Arcade Band. A launch promotion offers a 50% discount on the Fitbit Ace Pass and a free band until August 31. The subscription costs $119.99 per year or $9.99 per month, covering LTE services, games, and location-sharing features.
Order the Fitbit Ace LTE today to keep your kids active and connected in a fun and safe way.
