Fitbit Ace LTE: A Fun and Feature-Packed Smartwatch for Kids
Fitbit's latest offering for children, the Ace LTE, aims to make fitness tracking more engaging and interactive. Priced at $229.95, this smartwatch combines activity monitoring with games and virtual pets to encourage kids to stay active throughout the day.
 |
|---|
| A close look at the Fitbit Ace LTE hardware with its bumper case |
Key Features
- LTE connectivity (requires $9.99/month subscription)
- Sleek, durable design with interchangeable bands
- Interactive games that reward physical activity
- Virtual pet Eejie to care for and customize
- Parental controls and school time settings
 |
|---|
| A close look at the Fitbit Ace LTE hardware compared to the T-Mobile SyncUP Kids Watch |
Encouraging Activity Through Play
The Ace LTE uses a unique point system to motivate kids:
- Movement points are earned through physical activity
- Points can be spent on games and virtual pet customization
- Daily quests provide bonus point opportunities
Games are designed to be played in short bursts, typically 5 minutes or less, and often require physical movement to progress. While this encourages frequent activity, some users may find the play-to-work ratio frustrating at times.
 |
|---|
| Customizing the Eejie home on the Fitbit Ace LTE |
Hardware and Battery Life
Despite its robust feature set, the Ace LTE maintains an impressive 16-hour battery life. The watch is also surprisingly durable, with an included bumper case to protect against impacts.
Room for Improvement
While the Ace LTE offers a polished experience overall, there are some areas that could be enhanced:
- More granular parental controls for activity goals
- Ability to bank movement points for longer play sessions
- Detailed health data tracking and visualization
- Expanded app ecosystem
The Competition
The Fitbit Ace LTE faces competition from devices like the T-Mobile SyncUP Kids Watch and Garmin Bounce. While these alternatives may offer features like video calling or longer battery life, the Ace LTE stands out with its engaging gameplay and sleek design.
Conclusion
The Fitbit Ace LTE represents a significant step forward in smartwatches for kids. Its blend of fitness tracking, games, and virtual pet care creates a compelling package that encourages physical activity. While there's room for refinement in some areas, the Ace LTE is likely to appeal to both children and parents looking for a fun, functional wearable.