Reports about Fitbit’s potential downfall might be exaggerated. Google seems to be testing new features for the popular fitness platform, including integrating some of Gemini’s advanced AI capabilities. Fitbit is showcasing a new set of Labs features for Android devices (as reported by 9to5Google). These include a Gemini-powered tool for analyzing and summarizing medical records, a symptom analysis feature, and a health trends monitor. These tools are anticipated to launch in the near future.
Here’s how these tools make managing your health easier.
One of the standout features is a medical record navigator, which allows users to upload lab reports in either PDF or image format. Once uploaded, Gemini scans the document, pulls out the key information, and presents it in plain language. To help users go a step further, the feature also provides helpful educational links related to the results.
Another tool, the symptom checker, offers a more interactive experience. Users can enter symptoms they’re experiencing, such as feeling nauseous, and the tool will respond with a series of follow-up questions. Each question helps narrow down the possible causes, guiding users toward a better understanding of what might be going on.
Fitbit has also introduced an unusual trends monitor that keeps an eye on key health metrics like breathing rate, heart rate, and other vitals. By learning a user’s typical baseline over time, the tool can detect when something seems off and alert them to changes that may need attention.
Altogether, these new features are designed to help users stay more informed about their health in a simple, accessible way—right from their smartphone or smartwatch.
The Privacy Risks of Sharing Your Health Data with AI
These features can be beneficial, and Fitbit, along with Google, is clearly exploring how artificial intelligence can assist in health management. However, they also raise concerns about the handling of sensitive, personal data. Fitbit states that the data collected during these experiments is used solely for product development and research, but there’s limited information available beyond that.
Anyone looking to try these features can sign up through the Labs section in the Fitbit app. Keep in mind that a Fitbit watch is required to access tools like the symptom checker and the unusual trends monitor.