The world of wearable technology has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade, with fitness trackers being one of the most popular categories. Among the numerous brands that have made a name for themselves in this space, Fitbit stands out as a pioneer and a leader. One of the most successful models from Fitbit is the Charge series, which has been a favorite among fitness enthusiasts. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the Fitbit Charge 3, focusing on its release year and the features that made it a game-changer in the industry.
A Brief History of Fitbit and the Charge Series
Before we dive into the details of the Fitbit Charge 3, it’s essential to understand the context and the history of the brand. Fitbit was founded in 2007 by James Park and Eric Friedman, with the goal of creating innovative wearable devices that could track various aspects of a person’s health and fitness. The first Fitbit device, the Fitbit Tracker, was released in 2008 and was a basic pedometer that could track steps taken, distance traveled, and calories burned.
Over the years, Fitbit continued to innovate and expand its product line, introducing new features and devices that catered to different needs and preferences. The Charge series, in particular, was designed to be a more affordable and accessible option for those who wanted a basic fitness tracker without breaking the bank. The first Fitbit Charge was released in 2014, followed by the Charge HR in 2015, and the Charge 2 in 2016.
The Fitbit Charge 3: A Major Upgrade
The Fitbit Charge 3 was released in 2018, and it marked a significant upgrade from its predecessors. The device featured a larger touchscreen display, water resistance up to 50 meters, and a battery life of up to 7 days. The Charge 3 also introduced new features such as guided breathing sessions, female health tracking, and support for mobile payments through Fitbit Pay.
One of the most notable improvements in the Charge 3 was its design. The device had a sleeker and more modern look, with a stainless steel buckle and a comfortable strap that came in various colors and sizes. The touchscreen display was also more responsive and intuitive, making it easier for users to navigate through the different features and settings.
Key Features of the Fitbit Charge 3
Some of the key features of the Fitbit Charge 3 include:
- Heart Rate Monitoring: The Charge 3 features continuous heart rate monitoring, allowing users to track their heart rate throughout the day.
- Water Resistance: The device is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it perfect for swimming, surfing, or other water-based activities.
- Guided Breathing Sessions: The Charge 3 offers guided breathing sessions that can help users relax and reduce stress.
- Female Health Tracking: The device allows women to track their menstrual cycles, ovulation, and fertility windows.
- Mobile Payments: The Charge 3 supports mobile payments through Fitbit Pay, allowing users to make payments on the go.
Impact of the Fitbit Charge 3 on the Wearable Market
The release of the Fitbit Charge 3 had a significant impact on the wearable market. The device’s affordability, features, and design made it an attractive option for those who wanted a basic fitness tracker without breaking the bank. The Charge 3 also helped to establish Fitbit as a leader in the wearable market, competing with other brands such as Apple, Garmin, and Samsung.
The success of the Charge 3 also led to the development of new features and devices from Fitbit. The company released the Charge 4 in 2020, which built upon the success of the Charge 3 and introduced new features such as built-in GPS and Spotify music control.
Comparison with Other Fitness Trackers
The Fitbit Charge 3 was compared to other fitness trackers in its class, including the Garmin Vivosport and the Xiaomi Mi Band 3. While each device had its strengths and weaknesses, the Charge 3 stood out for its ease of use, design, and features.
| Device | Price | Features |
| — | — | — |
| Fitbit Charge 3 | $149 | Heart rate monitoring, water resistance, guided breathing sessions, female health tracking, mobile payments |
| Garmin Vivosport | $199 | Heart rate monitoring, GPS, water resistance, stress tracking, music control |
| Xiaomi Mi Band 3 | $25 | Heart rate monitoring, water resistance, sleep tracking, notifications |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fitbit Charge 3 was released in 2018 and marked a significant upgrade from its predecessors. The device’s features, design, and affordability made it an attractive option for those who wanted a basic fitness tracker without breaking the bank. The Charge 3 also had a significant impact on the wearable market, establishing Fitbit as a leader in the industry. While there are other fitness trackers available in the market, the Charge 3 remains a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts.
As the wearable market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Fitbit and other brands innovate and improve their devices. One thing is certain, however – the Fitbit Charge 3 will remain a significant milestone in the history of wearable technology.
What is the release year of the Fitbit Charge 3?
The Fitbit Charge 3 was released in 2018. It was announced on August 20, 2018, and was made available for pre-order on the same day. The device was officially released on October 7, 2018.
The release of the Fitbit Charge 3 marked a significant upgrade to the previous model, the Fitbit Charge 2. The new device featured a larger touchscreen display, improved water resistance, and enhanced fitness tracking features. It also included new features such as guided breathing sessions and female health tracking.
What are the key features of the Fitbit Charge 3?
The Fitbit Charge 3 features a 40% larger touchscreen display compared to its predecessor, allowing users to easily navigate and view their fitness data. It also includes improved water resistance, with a rating of up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.
In addition to its physical features, the Fitbit Charge 3 also includes a range of fitness tracking features, such as step tracking, distance tracking, and calorie burn tracking. It also includes guided breathing sessions, female health tracking, and sleep tracking, making it a comprehensive fitness tracking device.
Is the Fitbit Charge 3 compatible with both Android and iOS devices?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 3 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It can be paired with a range of devices, including smartphones and tablets, allowing users to receive notifications and track their fitness data on the go.
To pair the Fitbit Charge 3 with a device, users simply need to download the Fitbit app and follow the on-screen instructions. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices, making it easy for users to get started with their new fitness tracker.
Does the Fitbit Charge 3 have built-in GPS?
No, the Fitbit Charge 3 does not have built-in GPS. However, it can connect to the GPS on a user’s smartphone, allowing for accurate distance tracking and route mapping.
While the lack of built-in GPS may be a drawback for some users, the Fitbit Charge 3’s ability to connect to a smartphone’s GPS makes it a convenient option for those who want to track their runs, hikes, and other outdoor activities without the need for a separate GPS device.
How long does the battery life of the Fitbit Charge 3 last?
The battery life of the Fitbit Charge 3 can last up to 7 days on a single charge, depending on usage. This makes it a convenient option for users who want a fitness tracker that can keep up with their active lifestyle without needing to be recharged every day.
To extend the battery life of the Fitbit Charge 3, users can turn off features such as Bluetooth and notifications, or adjust the screen brightness. Additionally, the device can be easily recharged using a USB charger, making it easy to top up the battery on the go.
Is the Fitbit Charge 3 water-resistant?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 3 is water-resistant, with a rating of up to 50 meters. This makes it suitable for swimming, surfing, and other water-based activities.
The water-resistance of the Fitbit Charge 3 also makes it easy to wear in the shower or bath, without worrying about damaging the device. However, it’s worth noting that the device should not be exposed to extreme temperatures or pressures, and should be cleaned and dried regularly to maintain its water-resistance.
Can I customize the Fitbit Charge 3 with different bands?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 3 can be customized with different bands, allowing users to personalize their device to suit their style. Fitbit offers a range of bands in different colors and materials, including leather, metal, and silicone.
In addition to Fitbit’s official bands, there are also a range of third-party bands available, offering users even more options for customizing their device. To change the band, users simply need to release the latch on the back of the device and swap out the old band for a new one.