Google’s kid-friendly Fitbit Ace LTE just got a new feature that parents might not be so fond of
Google is roll out an update to its kid-friendly Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch with the aim of âpromoting independence and motivating movementâ in young users. Chief among these is the implementation of Tap to Pay.
Kids can use the feature to pay anywhere âGoogle Payâ is accepted. It works basically the same as on the Pixel Watch 2, but with one notable difference.
Tap to Pay on the Fitbit Ace LTE wonât work with just any debit or credit card. The device must be paired with a debit card from Greenlight or GoHenry, two financial tech companies that aim to teach kids about money.
This integration also allows the wearable to send transaction notifications, implement spending limits, and provide an allowance when chores are done. Itâs designed to help kids develop autonomy and give parents a way to monitor their finances so they donât overspend.
New games
The second major release is the introduction of two new games to the FitBit Arcade app: Sproutlings and Spirit Garden. Details are scarce, but from what we can tell, they encourage kids to exercise, just like the other titles already available.
Spirit Garden is an immersive title that challenges players to summon virtual spirits and rebuild shrines. Progression appears to be tied to exercise, with additional playtime unlocked âthe more kids move.â Itâs an interactive experience, as the title uses haptic feedback, audio, and the gameâs built-in accelerometer in its gameplay. Thereâs also a meditation aspect, as the announcement mentions âguided, mindful practices.â
Sproutlings are similar to Tamagotchi, where children are given a small plant creature to raise. As with the previous game, progression is tied to practice, as the Sproutling grows as young users play.
The School Time tool gets an additional feature by allowing parents to set a lunch break. That way, âkids can use their watch during recessâ or lunch, but when classes start, it automatically turns off.
Future update
There are other changes, too, though we donât know much about them. Google says itâs working with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to consistently release ânew Daily Questsâ going forward. What exactly these exercises entail is unknown.
Later this year, kids will be able to add their older or younger siblings as contacts in the Fitbit Ace wearable app. This should make communication between the two easier. Thereâs no exact date yet for when the feature will roll out, though weâve reached out to Google for more information and will update this article if and when we hear back.
Looking for a smartwatch for you? Check out Ny Breaking’s list of the best smartwatches for 2024.