Google has published the hardware specs and design guidelines for the Fitbit Air, opening the door for third-party makers to build their own bands and accessories for the tracker.
Stefanie Frederick, a Community Manager on the Google Health Team, made the announcement on the company’s community forum, saying Google is “officially releasing the hardware specifications and accessory design guidelines for the Fitbit Air tracker to the public.”
Google says the move came after users started sharing ideas for personalizing the tracker shortly after it launched. The specs are now open so that “anyone from independent designers and artisan makers to custom accessory brands can build accessories for the Fitbit Air.” That means cheaper third-party bands should start showing up as independent makers and smaller accessory brands get access to the official dimensions.
Third-party creators can also apply for certification under Google’s Made for Google program. Accessories that clear Google’s performance and compatibility standards get an official badge, and approved partners will be able to “engage pre-launch on upcoming devices, for accessory availability at launch.”
For Fitbit Air owners, the practical upside is more choice. Right now you’re limited to whatever Google sells directly, but with the specs now public, the accessory market should grow pretty quickly, making for more affordable bands instead of of the $50 to $65 CAD pricing for OEM bands.
Want to see more of our stories on Google?
P.S. Want to keep this site truly independent? Support us by buying us a beer, treating us to a coffee, or shopping through Amazon here. Links in this post are affiliate links, so we earn a tiny commission at no charge to you. Thanks for supporting independent Canadian media!
