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Comprehensive Review of Fitbit Charge 6

Nov 6, 2024

Fitbit Charge 6 Review

Introduction

  • Overview of new features.
  • Real-life testing of features.
  • Examination of user interface, accuracy, and final recommendations.

New Features

Physical Button

  • Return of a physical button on the left side.
  • Easier usability compared to the touch button in previous version.

Heart Rate Sensor

  • New heart rate sensor claimed to be more accurate, especially during workouts.
  • Incorporates machine learning algorithms from Google Pixel Watch.
  • Heart rate broadcasting to third-party apps (Peloton, etc.)
    • Issue with encrypted heart rate data causing compatibility problems.
    • Example: Works with Zwift on Apple TV, fails on other devices.

Sport Modes

  • Addition of 20 new sport modes (total ~40).
  • Easier access to all sport modes on the watch.

Music Controls

  • YouTube Music Controls.
    • Works with iOS and Android.
    • Controls music on phone rather than direct playback.

Google Maps Integration

  • Turn-by-turn notifications directly on watch.
  • Useful for walking, not as much for driving.

Google Wallet

  • Integration allows tap-to-pay functionality.
  • Requires authentication and setup.
  • Distinction between Google Wallet and Google Pay.

Zoom Magnifier

  • Accessibility feature.
  • Enabled in settings; activated by triple tapping the screen.

Battery Life

  • Claimed battery life of 7 days.
  • Generally aligns with real-life usage.

Account Conversion

  • Conversion of Fitbit accounts to Google accounts.
  • Required for usage of Charge 6 and Pixel Watch 2.

User Interface

  • Main watch face customization.
  • Access to various settings and features via swiping:
    • Controls menu, dashboard, notifications, exercise modes.
    • EDA scan for stress tracking, ECG functionality.

Accuracy

Sleep Tracking

  • Accurate for sleep start and end times.
  • Sleep stages not reliably judged.

Heart Rate Accuracy

  • Improved accuracy with new sensor and algorithms.
  • Good performance in indoor/outdoor workouts.

GPS Accuracy

  • Issues with GPS accuracy due to band design.
  • Better performance when phone GPS is used or band is loosened.

Conclusion

  • Significant feature enhancements from Charge 4.
  • Major upgrade for users of older models.
  • Key new integrations: Google services and heart rate broadcasting.
  • Priced at $159 with favorable battery life compared to competitors.

Note: Always refer to the official Fitbit website or review for the most detailed information and updates.

Full transcript