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The Fitbit Google Ace LTE, now $179.95 (down from $229.95), is designed with kids in mind, featuring a bright OLED display and a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor powering its many sensors. It’s built tough, with a durable Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen and 5ATM water resistance, making it more than capable of handling everyday bumps and splashes. However, the real value of this smartwatch comes only when it's paired with the Ace Pass subscription ($9.99/month), which unlocks calling, texting, GPS tracking, and movement-based games. Without the subscription, the watch is essentially a glorified step tracker—a role the more affordable Fitbit Ace 3 ($84.95) can easily handle.
The games are designed to get kids moving, tying progress to activity goals. Kids can customize their Eejie, a Tamagotchi-like character, and earn daily rewards for staying active, with the watch limiting how much they can unlock each day to keep things balanced and avoid overtiring. On the downside, this PCMag review notes that the games can be slow to load, and the controls sometimes lack responsiveness. It also doesn’t include a camera—something some parents might see as a privacy win, while others might miss it for selfies or video calls.
For parents, features like GPS tracking via Google Maps (location data is stored for 24 hours and is accessible only to parents) and the ability to call or text up to 20 trusted contacts, including an emergency auto-call function if a parent doesn’t respond, provide added peace of mind. Additionally, School Time mode is another thoughtful addition, muting games during certain hours while keeping activity tracking and essential communication active. That said, the Ace LTE lacks sleep tracking, which might be a disappointment for parents given its price. Also, with a battery life of about 16 hours, the watch will need nightly charging, which might feel like a drawback for busy families.
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