The Fitbit Ace LTE is a fantastic choice for kids who want a smartwatch and fitness tracker in one. It comes with a unique data plan that costs $230 for the watch itself, and an additional $10 a month or $120 annually for the data plan. The watch features a user-friendly platform that is easy for kids to navigate, and the monthly fee is quite affordable, especially with a 50% discount for the annual plan until August. However, it does lack features like sleep-tracking insights and support for receiving images or voice messages. Additionally, parents do not get a phone number with the data plan.
Google recently introduced the new Fitbit Ace LTE, which gamifies physical activity to motivate kids to move more. The watch boasts a large 41mm by 45mm Gorilla Glass watch face, making it easy to interact with the device. In comparison, the Xplora XGO3, priced at $130, also requires a monthly data subscription and provides virtual coins for steps taken. However, it has fewer features than the Fitbit Ace LTE.
The Fitbit Ace LTE may resemble a smartwatch for grownups, but it lacks a phone number with the Ace Pass. Parents must use the Fitbit Ace app on their smartphones to access their kids’ settings, location, data plan, messaging, calling, and more. While the app allows parents to monitor their kids’ activity and steps taken, it does not provide sleep tracking or heart rate data.
Kids can call, send text and voice messages, and play games on the Fitbit Ace LTE. The watch also restricts messaging to approved users over 13 with the Fitbit Ace app. Parents can set emergency contacts for school mode to prevent distractions. The watch does not support sending voice messages, stickers, or photos, although Google plans to add Google Wallet for tap-to-pay functionality.
The Fitbit Ace LTE offers features like ‘Noodles’ for activity tracking, Fitbit Arcade games, customizable avatars called ‘Eejies,’ and interchangeable wristbands. Parents looking for a smartwatch for kids aged 6 to 14 who can navigate a touchscreen should consider the Fitbit Ace LTE. While it has room for improvement, the watch’s future software updates may address these issues. Ultimately, the benefits of the Fitbit Ace LTE outweigh any drawbacks.
