In 2018, Fitbit revolutionized the wearables market by introducing the Ace, a wearable tracker designed specifically for kids. This innovative device aimed to encourage children to lead healthier lifestyles while providing parents with valuable insights into their child’s activity levels. Fast forward to today, and Fitbit is once again making waves in the industry with the launch of the Ace LTE, a cellular-enabled version of the original device that borrows heavily from its popular smartwatch, Versa.
A Gaming-Focused Approach
The Ace LTE is designed for kids aged 7 and above, and its primary focus is on gaming. This device features a range of engaging 3D games that encourage children to move around and stay active. The more they play, the more playtime they unlock, creating a fun and rewarding experience for kids. Fitbit has cleverly incorporated game development into its platform, with new titles added every few months to keep kids engaged.
Gamification and Motivation
Rather than relying on traditional metrics to motivate users, Fitbit has taken a more innovative approach. The Ace LTE incorporates a unique gamification system that rewards children for completing activities and achieving fitness milestones. This approach is designed to encourage kids to develop healthy habits while having fun at the same time.
A Capitalistic Twist
The Ace LTE also introduces a new concept in accessories, with six different bands available for purchase. These bands come with downloadable content (DLC), allowing children to customize their Eejies – virtual pets that ‘feed’ off of movement. The DLC system adds a capitalistic twist to the device, where kids can earn ‘arcade tickets’ by completing activities and use these tickets to buy new clothes and furniture for their Eejies.
Safety and Data Protection
As with any wearable device, concerns about data protection and safety are paramount. Fitbit has taken steps to address these issues, working closely with leading experts in child psychology, public health, privacy, and digital wellbeing to design the Ace LTE. Location sharing is only available through the app on a parent/guardian’s device, while location data automatically disappears after a day. Activity data can be stored for up to 35 days before being wiped.
Subscription Service
The Ace LTE comes with a subscription service that offers an additional layer of functionality and benefits. For $10 per month or $120 for a full year, users gain access to exclusive content, including new games and DLC. The subscription service starts shipping on June 5, alongside the device itself.
A New Era in Wearables
The Ace LTE marks a significant departure from traditional fitness trackers, incorporating gaming elements and a gamification system that rewards children for achieving fitness milestones. While concerns about data protection and safety remain, Fitbit’s commitment to working with experts in child psychology and digital wellbeing is reassuring. With the launch of this new device, Fitbit is once again pushing the boundaries of what wearables can do, offering parents a valuable tool for encouraging their children to lead healthier lifestyles.
Specifications
- Available in a cellular-enabled version
- Six different bands available for purchase with DLC
- Subscription service offers exclusive content and benefits
- Location sharing only available through app on parent/guardian’s device
- Location data automatically disappears after a day
- Activity data can be stored for up to 35 days before being wiped
Conclusion
The Ace LTE is an exciting new development in the world of wearables, offering parents a unique tool for encouraging their children to lead healthier lifestyles. With its focus on gaming and gamification, this device is sure to appeal to kids aged 7 and above. As with any wearable device, concerns about data protection and safety are paramount, but Fitbit’s commitment to working with experts in child psychology and digital wellbeing is reassuring.
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