(2019-08-29) Fitbits Versa2 Moves Beyond Steps And Calories With Improved Sleeptracking Features

Fitbit's Versa 2 moves beyond steps and calories with improved sleep-tracking features. Fitbit's Versa 2 smartwatch launches on Sept. 15, starting at $199.95. Compared to the original Versa, the new smartwatch is sleeker, comfier, and more watch-like with its always-on display that shows the time. It's also smarter, with built-in Amazon Alexa voice controls.

Built-in Amazon Alexa voice controls also make the Versa 2 just a teensy bit more intelligent, although the digital assistant doesn't speak — it's just text on a screen. As with other digital assistants, you can ask Alexa to tell you the weather, set reminders, and more.

First, with the connected Fitbit app, you can get a "sleep score" to grade how well your sleep is. This score is based on factors such as how long you've slept and how much deep and REM sleep you got.

Second, a new "smart wake" feature uses machine learning to analyze the Versa 2's sleep data and then find the optimal time to wake you up either during your light or REM sleep. Fitbit says this is better for naturally waking up your body than setting an alarm clock for the same time every day

And third, the Versa 2 will be able to generate a graph that shows variations in oxygen levels within your bloodstream to help detect potential breathing issues such as sleep apnea during sleep. This feature won't be available at launch, but is "coming soon."

At $200, the Veras 2 is still considerably cheaper than an Apple Watch Series 3 or Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2, which both start at $279, and also the Apple Watch Series 4, which starts at $399. The Versa 2's only real smartwatch competitor is Samsung's $200 Galaxy Watch Active.