News
Fitbit Unveils 3 New Fitness Trackers — Without Wear OS 3
The svelte updates to the Inspire, Versa, and Sense models still don’t use Google’s wearable OS, though the range still looks tempting.
If you were eagerly awaiting a new smartwatch release from Fitbit that would feature an updated OS in the form of Google Wear 3, you’ll probably be disappointed by the firm’s latest announcement. However, that’s perhaps as far as bad news goes for this new range of fitness trackers, as overall, the trio of models otherwise look incredibly compelling.
The Inspire 3, Versa 4, and Sense 2 are all now available for preorder, with each model looking a little slimmer and more polished than before, albeit sporting Fitbit’s own OS instead of the Google iteration. Fitbit’s software is attractive and easy enough to use, and you’ll still be able to access maps and wallet features from the search giant despite not getting the full Wear OS treatment.
Light Fantastic
At $100, the Inspire 3 is the entry-level model and compares favorably to the likes of Garmin’s Vivosmart series.
The always-on AMOLED face and 10-day battery life are notable in this price tier, as are the monitoring features, which boast:
- Always-on tracking for blood oxygen (SpO2).
- Always-on skin temperature monitor.
- Irregular heartbeat rhythm warning.
The watch has also received FDA approval and CE marking, so you can be sure the device will keep a watchful eye over your vital signs. As well as comprehensive monitoring, you also get a Daily Readiness score, helping you decide whether you need to recover or head out for another training session, and a new Sleep Profile feature able to track 10 different sleep metrics.
The Inspire 3 comes in three colors and can be fitted with a wide range of new Fitbit bands too.
A Genuine Apple Alternative?
The Versa 4 ($230) and Sense 2 ($300) aim to take a slice of the Apple Watch’s market share, though, of course, both devices work with Android and iOS, so offer a good deal more flexibility than Cupertino’s walled garden device.
Both Fitbit trackers have overhauled software, tweaked to offer a (dare we say) more Apple-like vibe. However, unlike Apple’s devices, they will comfortably last a whole week on a charge and refill to a day’s worth of power in just 12 minutes.
Features include everything present on the Inspire 3, with the Versa 4 being optimized for workouts, using built-in GPS and 40 exercise modes. The Sense 2 now features a Body Response sensor that hunts for stress triggers and alerts the wearer if anything troubling is uncovered.
Both watches are also lighter and thinner than previous iterations, with the entire lineup offering a slimmer, smarter experience all around.
News
NASA Forms New Partnership With Saudi Space Agency
The pair will collaborate on the Center for Space Futures, advancing space tech by bringing together public and private stakeholders.
Saudi Arabia’s space industry is on the brink of substantial expansion after generating $400 million in revenue in 2022, according to a report by the Saudi Communications, Space and Technology Commission.
Now, in a new venture with NASA, plans for a “Center for Space Futures” are set to further drive the Kingdom’s aspirations of becoming a leading player in space exploration and technology.
Capturing moments from the joint delegation visit with leaders from the Saudi and American Space Agencies @NASA to @PSU_RUH, along with scenes showcasing the audience's engagement. pic.twitter.com/oB1cFTiRNl
— وكالة الفضاء السعودية (@saudispace) May 14, 2024
The partnership between NASA and Saudi Arabia goes beyond economic advantages. The pair have already cooperated on preliminary work for the Artemis II lunar mission, which is slated for a September 2025 launch and aims to land astronauts near the moon’s South Pole.
Also Read: Plans Underway For Massive Middle East Autonomous Freight Network
During a visit to the capital, Riyadh, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized in a TV interview the broader objectives of the collaboration, which encompass “returning to the moon and then [to] Mars” while utilizing space exploration to glean important insights into climate change. The NASA spokesman also reiterated the space agency’s dedication to collaborating with Saudi Arabia on other future ventures.
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