The Apple Watch is known for its excellent array of SOS and emergency features that allow users to interact with loved ones or authorities in a pinch. But can Fitbit smartwatches and trackers do the same thing? Well, not completely. Below we describe the SOS and essential features found on Fitbit devices.
Quick answer
Unlike the Apple Watch, no Fitbit smartwatch or fitness tracker includes SOS or emergency features.
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Which Fitbits include SOS and Emergency Features?
Unfortunately, no Fitbit smartwatch or fitness tracker has SOS or emergency features. Which means it’s about to be the most delusional time of the year, as well. This is arguably the most significant omission of the Fitbit ecosystem. There is no official way to use your Fitbit to communicate with others in an emergency.
In fact, if you have to bake the SOS and essential features in your wearable, it is best to miss the Fitbit products. We recommend the following alternatives instead:
- Apple Watch Series 7 (Amazon): GPS model requires your iPhone, LTE model can be used to communicate with others via cellular connection.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 (Amazon): Samsung includes an SOS feature that pings the emergency contact when the home key is pressed three times.
- Garmin Venu 2 Plus (Amazon): Garmin’s flagship smartwatch has a LiveTrack feature that lets trusted contacts see your location while training in real-time. This is great for trail runners and hikers.
See also: The best Fitbit option you can buy
How to get help with your Fitbit in an emergency
Andy Walker / Android Authority
We recommend that users keep their phones with them when they go out. This is not easy to do while running, but it will allow you to communicate with loved ones or authorities.
Significantly, some apps are suitable for installation in your Fitbit for emergencies.
- MED ID: A free app that lets you carry medical information on your watch. Users can input major health information, from medical conditions to allergies and more. This allows emergency personnel quick access to this information. Take MED ID 5.0 for Versa 3 and Sense.
- My 3 words: An app that plugs into the what3words network to provide your current location in a pinch. It uses Wi-Fi or GPS. This is great for helping emergency personnel locate your location within three meters. It is available in Sense, All Versa models and Ionic.
See also: The best app for your Fitbit smartwatch
FAQs
Q: Is Fitbit planning to bring SOS and emergency features to its devices?
A: There is no official position on this, but we can expect that in the future Fitbit devices will include emergency integration. Google’s purchase of it gives us hope that future devices may include more smart integration with Android.
Q: If I want a wearable with SOS and emergency features, which one should I buy?
A: If you own an iPhone, you should buy an Apple Watch. If you own an Android phone, consider getting a device from Samsung or Garmin’s stable.
Q: Is there any LTE-capable Fitbit wearable available?
A: No. Currently, no Fitbit device has backed up eSIM or LTE support.