Fitbit OS on the Sense and Versa 3 won't be available on earlier wearables

Fitbit Sense (Source: Fitbit)

Even if the Fitbit Versa 2 is just a year old, unfortunately, it won't be getting the latest version of Fitbit's smartwatch software. The Fitbit OS 5.0 platform was developed "exclusively" for the newer wearables and "optimized" for the Sense and Versa 3's latest displays and speaker technology. OS 5.0 introduces a new interface navigation method and interface that takes advantage of the higher resolution screens. And while it can run older apps, these need to run in a compatibility mode.

Developers can't distribute a single version of an app optimized for both old and new smartwatches. What they can do is release different versions that will reach the right users. Those who own older Fitbit Versa smartwatches can still use theirs just fine (our first-generation Versa still works well); it's just they won't get the steady stream of new features.

Source: Engadget

Fitbit Versa 2 brings Amazon Alexa into the smartwatch

After getting leaked, the Fitbit Versa 2 is now official. It still looks similar to its predecessor, but it comes with some new useful features. This smartwatch/fitness tracker gets an on-device microphone for the first time, allowing you to use Amazon's Alexa voice-activated assistant. Alexa on the Versa 2 will respond to your voice commands via text-based messages, which you'll see on the display. If you were worried about it talking back loudly to you, it wouldn't happen since this device has no speakers. You can ask Alexa to do things like set alarms and timers, check local weather, news, and control smart home devices. On Android, it can even transcribe voice responses to messages. But it can't control music, or control fitness tracker options until later this year.

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Leak spills details on new Fitbit Versa 2

The Fitbit Versa 2 is coming. And if we believe the shared photos from prolific leaker @evleaks, we have an idea of what's coming. The photos show the product box of the rumoured smartwatch and highlight what we can expect. The Versa 2 is tipped to be getting Alexa built into it, putting it up against the upcoming Apple Watch and Galaxy Active2. Alexa on the Versa 2 will help with things like weather reports based on your location, being a guide for your fitness regime, control your smart home items, and answer general knowledge questions, which is pretty much what you can do with Amazon Echo speakers.

It's said to be getting over 18 exercise modes, sleep tracking, and contactless payments with Fitbit Pay support. Sleep scores and heart-rate monitoring are also included. And Fitbit promises a 4+ day battery life, which is roughly the same as its predecessor. Its built-in storage can support over 300 songs to listen to offline. Rumours suggest that Fitbit has plans to release this smartwatch on September 15, with the company making the official announcement on August 25.

Source: T3