Google Health update doubles workout detection
Version 5.11 expands automatic activity logging to 100 types for Fitbit and Pixel Watch users, adding new metabolic health tools for Premium subscribers.
By Alina Carter ·
Google released version 5.11 of its health app this week, bringing a major expansion to automatic workout detection for wearable device users. The update is available on iOS and is currently rolling out to Android.
The core change involves a tenfold increase in recognized activity types. Devices can now identify up to 100 different workouts, up from the previous limit of 10. This includes strength training, swimming, and various racket and team sports. The feature is live on the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5. The Fitbit Edge will receive the update on October 27.
Google states that the new detection system uses contextual reasoning based on user routines, historical data, and manual edits. The company claims this approach makes activity detection nearly twice as accurate. It also reduces missed workout logs by more than half. A session is logged automatically if it lasts at least 15 minutes and shows a sustained elevated heart rate. Users typically see a summary in the app within 30 minutes.
Premium subscribers with a Fitbit Air or Fitbit Edge gain two new Health Guardian tools. Blood pressure trends and insulin resistance trends can be configured now. First reports are scheduled for early November. Blood pressure data requires five consecutive days of wear in October. Insulin resistance trends require seven days and nights of wear during the month.
The app also renames the Blood glucose section to simply Glucose. New charts and graphs accompany this change. Users can set custom time-in-range goals for data from connected continuous glucose monitors. In the US, Lingo by Abbott can now connect directly to the app. Glucose readings appear within 30 minutes. Premium members can also ask Google Health Coach questions about these trends.
Sleep tracking received two adjustments. The system now uses step data to better identify short awakenings, such as trips to the bathroom. Users can also remove naps that do not align with their daily schedule directly from the nap card.
The update is distributed via the iOS App Store and is in progress on Android devices.
