Fitbit "smartwatch" wishlist (to replace Fitbit Surge)

[pedris]

For about the last 18 months, I've been a Fitbit Surge user. Unfortunately, I've had a few issues with the unit's build quality and the accuracy and reliability of the GPS. On the plus side, Fitbit's support team has been fantastic and I like the platform/app and community.

I'm looking to upgrade (the Surge was released in 2014) and I'd like a tracker / sports watch with additional functionality, especially since I'm finding myself taking part in longer leisure and sporting events.

I've decided to wait to see what the much-anticipated Fitbit "smartwatch", rumoured to be debuting later this year, will offer before making a decision on whether to stay with Fitbit.

My wish list, in addition to what the Surge already offers, would include the following:

- highly accurate / reliable GPS

- longer GPS battery life (24 hours would be ideal) - for full-day cycling trips, hikes, and longer sports events (e.g. ultra-marathons)

- full waterproofing

- a swim function (open water with GPS and indoor pool)

- biathlon and triathlon functions

- the ability to pair with a chest strap for HR monitoring, especially when swimming

- swappable straps / bands

- contactless payments

- offline music with popular streaming services - I use Spotify with bluetooth headphones

- offline maps with voice navigation

- a voice recorder - for reminders, ideas, etc. when out running and cycling

I'm less interested in email/text/etc. notifications and apps.

What would your wish list look like?

[VF31AE3]

My wish list.DURABILITY,  RELIABILITY and HIGH QUALITY materials and workmanship. Replaceable bands and battery. Industry standard micro USB connection. That it does what the manufacturer says it does without glitches, problems, defects, issues, or conditions. Example: water resistant but don't get it wet. I don't want to have to "Restart 3 times in a row" or jump up and down while turning ccw (on Tuesday) just so the thing will sync, or swipe. I could go on but I'm calmed down now. Again. The Surge concept for me is a 10 but its implementation for me is a 0. I'm hopeful but practical (as well as cynical, and pessimistic). Welcome to my world.

[pedris · Accepted solution]

So, the Ionic is here (or almost) and looks like it'll tick many of my boxes: https://www.fitbit.com/de/ionic

Quite a bit more expensive in EU than US, but that might be due to taxes and other costs.

Looking forward to learning more about the unit!