14 DAY TRIAL // Fitbit is expected to launch a redesign of its popular Flex and Charge models later this year, and leaked photos provide us with the first glimpse into what the two devices could look like when they see daylight in the next months.
The Fitbit Flex 2 features a design that’s similar to the first generation and reminds a lot of Xiaomi’s Mi Band, as both of them were using LED lights instead of a fully featured display. Just like the original model, the Flex 2 will come with five different LEDs that will show the status of your current goals, but also help you monitor battery during charging.
Judging from these photos, it’s not clear if the Flex 2 will be removable, a feature that the first generation supported and that allowed owners to replace their bands (the leaked screenshots mention "interchangeable accessories," but it's hard to tell if this refers to the bands or something else). According to Fitbit, the new Flex could be what it calls “swimproof,” which most likely means that you can wear it when swimming without any risks of damage.
All Fitbit models can withstand small amounts of water and drops of rains, but the company doesn’t encourage owners to wear them when swimming or showering. And yet, the Flex could resist up to 30 minutes when immersed in water, tests have shown.
Redesigned Fitbit Charge
The Fitbit Charge 2 is the more advanced model of the two, coming with a fully featured screen that’s significantly larger than the one available on the first generation. It also boasts a heart-rate tracker called PurePulse, which is also available on Fitbit’s latest models, and comes with interchangeable bands and notification support.
There’s also a redesigned band, with a more watch-like clasp. As Wareable notes, this could be the model that helps Fitbit leave behind the rubberized strap and monochrome display, but the exact features are yet to be disclosed.
There’s still no information regarding pricing and the release date, but if you look closely, the Charge has the November 27 date on the display, and this could be an indication related to its launch. Certainly, more information will be provided in the coming weeks, but for the moment, the Charge 2 seems to be quite an exciting overhaul that’ll certainly be worth a look at.
