Fitbit Edge Has No NFC, Google Says

Android Authority published Oct 22, 2026 that Fitbit Edge lacks NFC and cannot make contactless payments.

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Oct 22, 2026 - 18:54

Oct 22, 2026 - 20:31

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Archival Fitbit Charge-family fitness tracker, photographed in May 2018; an illustrative Fitbit device image, not the Fitbit Edge or Charge 6. Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels, cropped to 16:9. Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/1080745/ . License: https://www.pexels.com/license/

Fitbit Edge Has No NFC, Google Says

Google has confirmed that the Fitbit Edge does not include NFC, meaning the fitness tracker cannot be used for contactless payments or transit taps. Android Authority reports that Google made the decision after fewer than 1% of Charge 6 users said they used the feature.

Instead, Google says it prioritized other additions, including an altimeter and requested improvements. The Edge still targets health and wellness users with features such as ECG functionality, skin-temperature tracking and smartphone integrations, but the omission is significant for people who relied on wearable payments.

The decision also creates an unusual product trade-off: the Edge costs $180 while dropping a capability available on the older Charge 6. Buyers who want Google Wallet support will need to carry a phone or choose another wearable. Google’s explanation is usage-based rather than a technical claim that NFC payments were impossible.

The NFC clarification is the distinct news angle.