Google is roll out an update to its kid-friendly Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch with the aim of “promoting independence and motivating movement” in young users. Chief among these is the implementation of Tap to Pay.
Kids can use the feature to pay anywhere “Google Pay” 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 won’t 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. It’s designed to help kids develop autonomy and give parents a way to monitor their finances so they don’t 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 “the more kids move.” It’s an interactive experience, as the title uses haptic feedback, audio, and the game’s built-in accelerometer in its gameplay. There’s also a meditation aspect, as the announcement mentions “guided, mindful practices.”
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, “kids can use their watch during recess” or lunch, but when classes start, it automatically turns off.
Future update
There are other changes, too, though we don’t know much about them. Google says it’s working with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to consistently release “new Daily Quests” 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. There’s no exact date yet for when the feature will roll out, though we’ve 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.