Detailed on The Verge recently via leaked information, Fitbit is currently prepping a higher end version of the Fitbit Flex that includes a digital display similar to the technology included on the Fitbit One. Called the Fitbit Force, users can cycle through various fitness metrics using a button on the side of the device. Different from the Fitbit Flex, the device will show the current time on the display similar to a smartwatch. The Fitbit Force will also be water-resistant up to a certain point, likely able to be worn without worry when caught in the rain or perhaps taking a shower.
Also brought over from the Fitbit One, the Fitbit Force will include an altimeter for measuring altitude. Within the Fitbit One, this sensor is used to measure the number of steps walked up and down during a day. This metric factors into the daily caloric burn estimation since it requires more effort to traverse a flight of stairs than walking on a flat surface. On the display, users will see a floor icon along with an estimated number of steps climbed throughout the day.
In addition to these new features, it’s likely that the Fitbit Force will also include all functions of the Fitbit Flex such as measuring distance traveled and steps taken as well as data about quality of sleep and a silent vibration alarm to wake up a user in the morning. According to the report, the Fitbit Force will be available in two sizes, small and large, as well as two colors, black and blue.
Due to the additional features, the Fitbit Force will be priced higher than the Fitbit Flex. The Fitbit Force is expected to have a MSRP of $129.99 at launch, $30 more than the Fitbit Flex. At this time, Fitbit has not announced a release date for the Fitbit Force, but it could become available within the next two months in order to take advantage of the holiday shopping rush.
