Google On Wednesday, a screenless Fitbit Air fitness tracker was launched in India, but it is priced at 13,999 rupees, which is approximately 146 US dollars, clearly positioning it as a high-end device. In contrast, the price of this device in the United States is 99 US dollars.

Released in May, it features health and fitness tracking capabilities, including 24/7 heart rate monitoring, heart rhythm monitoring with alerts for atrial fibrillation ( A-fib ), blood oxygen levels, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, as well as sleep stage and duration monitoring.

This device features a screenless design, aiming to capitalize on the growing trend of screenless devices. As people begin to move away from screens and opt for health devices that are less likely to distract their attention, such as the Whoop fitness bracelets and the Oura rings, screenless products are receiving more attention. However, this new Fitbit is even more affordable.

In the field of health tracking, there are now screenless devices from Garmin and Fitbit, as well as products from Indian startups Noise and Urban. These companies have been trying to compete with Western rivals by offering lower prices.

Research institution IDC pointed out in its global wearable devices report that although the shipment volume of bracelets is declining, screenless trackers are opening up a niche market. Data from Counterpoint Research shows that India currently accounts for only 5% of the screenless wearable market; a wearable product priced like a high-end device may also struggle to significantly change the overall market size, even if it is backed by well-known brands such as Fitbit or Google.

Fitbit Air will be available for sale starting from October 2nd at Google Store as well as through retail partners including Flipkart, Croma, Reliance Digital, and Vijay Sales. Google will also offer a three-month free Google Health premium membership for this smartwatch.