Withings has released a new activity tracker called the Activité Steel as the company tries to mix everyday lifestyle and luxury into a single device. This is the company's third fitness tracker, and it brings to the table some of the best design features of the first two.
The first two fitness trackers from Withings were the Activité Saphir and the Activité Pop. The former is a Swiss made fitness tracker that cost a whopping $450 to own while the latter cost $150 because of its less impressive design.
The Activité Steel, on the other hand, sits right in the middle in terms of pricing and design. The device costs only $170, and for the moment, is only available via the official Withings website.
The interesting thing about the Steel is what it took from the first two fitness trackers. According to Withings, the watch face is stainless steel similar [pdf] to the original Activité. However, the band is made out of silicone, similar to the Activité Pop. This design makes the Steel into a fitness tracker that can be worn every day, as silicone bands are usually more comfortable when compared to stainless steel bands.
When it comes down to functionality, we should point out that the Steel does all the same things the other Withings fitness trackers can do. Yes, all three devices are the same in terms of software and performance, so when consumers go out to buy one of them, they are truly spending for design rather than what these devices can do.
Folks who want a dedicated fitness tracker but do not care much about looks might decide to go with the Microsoft Band 2 since it is arguably the most powerful fitness tracker available right now, but not the best looking or the most comfortable to wear, according to reviews.
When it comes down to using the Activité Steel, users must pair the device with a smartphone and connect to the Withings Health Mate app. With the watch on the user's wrist, it can track your sleep and your steps continuously, something every fitness tracker is capable of doing.
In terms of battery, the Activité Steel is powered by regular watch batteries. Withings claim the batteries can last for up to 8 months, which is great and even better since they do not require charging.
