The Edge inherits the Fitbit Air’s improvements while restoring several Charge 6 features the screenless tracker lacks, including built-in GPS and electrical sensors that work with the electrocardiogram (ECG) app. You can also control music playback on a connected Bluetooth device, as you could with the Charge 6, and Google Maps turn-by-turn directions will arrive later this year.

Google also announced more advanced automatic activity tracking for the Edge, using Gemini Intelligence to identify up to 100 workout types. It can track more than 50 exercise modes, up from 40 on its predecessor. Google will also roll out these features to the Pixel Watch 5 and Air. If they work as promised, it means users won't have to log every activity manually.

With a Google Health Premium subscription, the Edge can track blood pressure trends without manual calibration and insulin resistance trends without requiring a blood draw. Google first announced these capabilities alongside the Pixel Watch 5's debut, but they only became available at the end of September. They’re also available on the Air, keeping Google’s screenless tracker up to date as its lineup expands.

The seven-day battery life remains unchanged, but it’s one of the Edge’s biggest advantages over the Pixel Watch. Like the Air, it takes about 90 minutes to fully charge, which is half an hour less than the Charge 6.

One odd omission is a near-field communication (NFC) sensor, which means the Edge doesn’t support contactless payments through Google Wallet. That’s a downgrade from the Charge 6 and a strange function to lose on a fitness tracker that Google is pitching as a step up from its basic Fitbits.

The Edge introduces new digital and analog clock faces, and the Canyon band color returns from the Pixel Watch 5, alongside five other band styles (Active Band, Active Sport Band, Performance Loop Band, Magnet Band, and Metal Links Band). The Stephen Curry collaboration ($220), which also appeared with the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 5, is back in the same brown-orange color.

Alongside the Edge, Google is also giving the screenless Fitbit Air a visual upgrade with a new Metal Mesh band. It’s an even dressier strap than the polyurethane Elevated Modern Band. The Air may have initially been designed to disappear on your wrist, but the new band makes it a statement accessory.

If you’re all in on the screenless Fitbit Air, the Edge won’t change your mind. But if you’re not ready to give up a display, the Edge might be a compelling and affordable alternative for both iPhone and Android users. Stay tuned for our review.