It seems like just last month that Fitbit introduced a new tracker (wait — it was just last month), but the company is back with another one — less functional but easier on the eyes.
The Alta is a significant and very intentional departure from the previous Fitbit look, reminding us more of a Garmin Vivosmart or a Microsoft Band than anything that Fitbit has sold before. The band is 0.6-inches wide (a quarter-inch narrower than the Charge and the same width as the Flex), and comes in three sizes to fit wrists from 5.5-inches to 9.3 inches around. It features replaceable bands — the base model is elastomer, but metal and leather bands will be available — and a monochrome OLED touchscreen.
It tracks steps and distance, automatically tells when you’re sleeping or exercising, and acts as a notification device. Notably, it does not do GPS or heart-rate monitoring, making it a functional replacement for the Charge (though not the Charge HR). It’s water-resistant, not waterproof, and claims a battery life of up to 5 days.
Price for the base unit is $130 — same as the Charge, which is still available; leather bands are $60, metal bands are $100, and elastomer bands in other colors are $30 each. A gold metal band and Tory Burch versions are coming soon, Fitbit’s site says. It’s available for pre-order, with shipping promised for early March.