Google Health Update Cuts Missed Workout Logs in Half
The new version tracks 100 activity types on Fitbit and Pixel devices and introduces early metabolic reports for premium subscribers.
By Sarah Montgomery ·
Google is releasing version 5.11 of its Health app this week, a major update that aims to stop users from losing workout data. The change expands automatic activity detection from ten types to 100 on supported devices. This includes strength training, swimming, and racket or team sports.
The new detection system is live now on the Fitbit Air and the Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5. Fitbit Edge users will receive the feature when that device launches on October 27. Google states that the system uses contextual reasoning based on a user's history and manual edits to make detections nearly twice as accurate. The company says this cuts missed workouts by more than half.
The app logs sessions automatically when they last at least 15 minutes and show a sustained increase in heart rate. A summary usually appears in the app within 30 minutes. If a user confirms or edits an entry, the system learns from that action to improve future predictions.
Google Health Premium subscribers with a Fitbit Air or Fitbit Edge are also getting new Health Guardian tools. Blood pressure and insulin resistance trends can be set up now. The first reports are due at the start of November. Blood pressure trends require wearing a Fitbit Air for five or more consecutive days in October. Insulin resistance trends require wearing the watch for at least seven days and nights in the month.
The update also renames the 'Blood glucose' section to 'Glucose' with new charts. Users can set custom time-in-range goals for data from connected continuous glucose monitors. In the US, Lingo by Abbott can now link directly to the app. Glucose readings from this device appear within 30 minutes. Premium members can ask the Health Coach questions about these trends via the Partner Apps menu.
Sleep tracking has been adjusted to use step data to better capture short awakenings, such as bathroom trips. Users can also remove a nap directly from the nap card if it does not match their day. Version 5.11 is currently available on iOS and is rolling out to Android users.
