Google Fit gets a redesign ahead of possible Pixel watch launch

Today Google has unveiled a brand new version of its Fit app for both Android phones and smartwatches running its Wear OS platform (previously known as Android Wear).

The new Google Fit has been redesigned to be centered around Move Minutes and Heart Points. These goals are based on recommendations from the American Heart Association (AHA) and World Health Organization (WHO), as Google's worked with both of those in order to better understand the science behind physical activity.

Fit should now help you get the amount and intensity of exercise you need to improve your health. Move Minutes can be earned for all of your activities, as what's being tracked is the amount of time you spend moving throughout a day (like the name implies). There's a daily goal for you to reach as well.

Heart Points give you credit for activities that "get your heart pumping harder". Moderate activity, like fast walking, will earn you one point per minute, while more intense stuff like running or kickboxing will net you two points per minute.

To reach the AHA and WHO's recommended amount of physical activity, it takes just half an hour of brisk walking for five days a week. This should reduce the risk of heart disease, improve your sleep, and increase your overall mental wellbeing.

To estimate the number of Heart Points, Google Fit automatically detects the activities you're carrying out using your phone or watch's sensors. You can also manually choose activities such as gardening, pilates, rowing, or spinning in the app. Fit integrates with Strava, Runkeeper, Endomondo, and MyFitnessPal, so you will get credit for every Move Minute and Heart Point you earn.

Based on your activity, over time you will receive tips and help to adjust your goals. Your journal shows your achievements and goal progress across all of your connected apps.

The new Google Fit is rolling out starting this week. Its redesign might imply that the often rumored but not yet official Pixel smartwatch could finally become real alongside the third generation of Google's own-brand phones this October. This may in fact be powered by Qualcomm's next wearable chipset, which is coming next month.

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