Fitbit launches the Charge 4 and 4 Special Edition

Fitbit has updated the Charge series of smart bands. The new devices offer some features notably absent from their previous generation, although they all share the form-factor and controls. Therefore, a user upgrading from a 3 variant may notice the addition of standalone GPS straightaway.

The OEM has also equipped the Charge 4 with 24/7 heart-rate tracking, the ability to track new kinds of movements including how many floors a user has climbed, over 20 modes for goal-based exercises and NFC for secure payments.

Fitbit estimates that the new wearable can last up to 7 days between charges. It is available in black and rosewood SKUs, which come with the brand's classic diamond-pattern band in blue/black and mauve respectively. They are available on pre-order and will ship in the US from either June (blue) or April 13, 2020 (others).

The SE (or special edition) variant will also ship from that date, and comes with an extra granite reflective woven strap as well as a classic black one. It costs US$169, whereas the standard versions are priced at $149. Interested health-conscious consumers may be advised that the Premium content within this band's own-brand App is still free while the Covid-19 pandemic persists.