Google adds Gemini AI coach to Fitbit Premium this October

Google is integrating its Gemini AI into Fitbit to create an AI-powered health coach, marking the latest addition to the growing trend of AI-enhanced fitness wearables. The feature will be available to Fitbit Premium subscribers starting in October, transforming the platform from a passive data collector into an active wellness advisor that provides personalized fitness, sleep, and health guidance.

What you should know: Fitbit’s AI coach represents a fundamental shift in how wearable devices interact with users, moving beyond simple data collection to active health coaching.
• The AI coach functions as a “fitness trainer, a sleep coach, and a health and wellness advisor” all within one app.
• It begins by asking users about their exercise frequency, ability, routine, preferences, and available equipment to build personalized workout plans.
• The coach continuously adjusts recommendations based on real-time data including sleep quality, recovery metrics, and physical strain.

How it works: The AI coach leverages behavioral data and user input to create dynamic, adaptive wellness programs.
• After initial setup, the system modifies workout plans based on factors like poor sleep, recovery needs, or elevated strain levels.
• Users can make manual adjustments for circumstances like injuries or busy work schedules that impact their routine.
• The coach connects to Google Health Connect and HealthKit (health data storage apps) to access broader health data for more informed responses.
• For the first time, users can ask direct questions about their routines and receive personalized AI-generated responses.

Hardware improvements: Google’s new Pixel Watch 4 enhances the AI coaching experience with upgraded sensors.
• The smartwatch features improved sensors that more accurately detect sleep stages and temperature variations.
• These biomarkers help determine daily readiness and overall wellness status.
• Enhanced sleep tracking provides both daily insights and long-term pattern analysis.
• The system now adjusts suggested sleep times based on individual needs, such as requiring more rest after travel or less after periods of inactivity.

The big data question: Google’s approach raises important questions about data usage and privacy in AI health coaching.
• Large language models require extensive data to provide accurate, helpful responses to health queries.
• Google is releasing Fitbit Premium as a preview, allowing users to help shape the app through feedback.
• The company has not clarified whether it will train its AI health coach on data collected from preview users.

Why this matters: This development reflects the broader evolution of wearable technology from passive monitoring to active health intervention, potentially changing how people approach personal wellness and fitness planning.