Millions of people use wearable fitness tracking devices to monitor their daily physical activity. While there are dozens of different types of fitness tracking devices, they are all designed to track a person’s physical activity. Some track the number of steps a person takes, how many calories he or she burns, heart rate and more. Up until now, though, fitness tracking devices have relied on physical buttons for user commands and control. But that may soon change, as the next-generation Fitbit — one of the market’s leading fitness tracking devices — is rumored to feature a touchscreen interface.
According to an article published by TechCrunch, the Fitbit Charge 3 may feature a touchscreen interface. While Fitbit has yet to officially confirm the presence of touchscreen technology in its next-generation Fitbit, a leaked image depicts the Fitbit Charge 3 with a full touchscreen interface. Of course, the previous generation of the device, the Fitbit Charge 2, featured a similar touch-based interface. However, neither the Fitbit Charge 2 nor any other generation of the fitness tracking device has featured a fully functional and intuitive touchscreen interface. Assuming the report is true, the Fitbit Charge 3 may become the first fitness tracking device to feature a touchscreen interface.
So, how will a touchscreen interface affect the Fitbit Charge 3’s functionality? The next-generation fitness tracking device’s touchscreen interface is rumored to support all basic controls. Using touch commands, such as tapping icons, users can send and read messages, set reminders and more.
In addition to a touchscreen interface, the upcoming Fitbit Charge 3 is also rumored to feature a waterproof design. Reports suggest that it be submerged in water up to 50 meters deep without sustaining damage. That’s pretty impressive considering that it has a touchscreen interface. Most touchscreen devices, including smartphones, lack a waterproof design. And when exposed to water, these devices can suffer permanent damage that often ruins the device.
A touchscreen interface would likely be a welcome feature among Fitbit users. After all, it’s easier and more convenient to control the fitness tracking device by tapping the display rather than pressing physical buttons. And when you’re running or performing other exercises, it’s certainly easier to control a fitness tracking device by tapping the display.
There’s no word yet on when the Fitbit Charge 3 will be released or how much it will cost. However, some reports suggest that it will likely be released by the end of the year, with a price of $150 to $200.
