Google releases special edition Pokémon Sleep Fitbit Air in September

Google is introducing a special edition Fitbit Air for Pokémon Sleep fans, giving users a wearable with a themed look while retaining the features of the standard model. The new device comes in what Google describes as a “serene Sleepy Blue” colourway and includes a printed design featuring a sleeping Pikachu.

The special edition model is aimed at users who want to connect their sleep tracking with the Pokémon Sleep experience. While existing smartwatches and fitness trackers can already be linked to the app through Apple Health or Google’s Health Connect, the new Fitbit Air offers a dedicated Pokémon-themed option. The underlying hardware and functionality remain the same as the regular Fitbit Air.

Pokémon-themed design with the same Fitbit Air features

The Pokémon Sleep edition Fitbit Air has been designed to remain lightweight and comfortable during extended use. Google says the standard Fitbit Air is intended to feel light and unobtrusive, making it suitable for wearing throughout the day and while sleeping. The special edition keeps that design while adding its Pokémon-inspired appearance.

Its Sleepy Blue finish and sleeping Pikachu print are the main differences from the regular version. The wearable is more of a themed edition than a new hardware release, with users getting the same core sleep-tracking experience as those who buy the standard Fitbit Air.

The device also works with Pokémon Sleep through Health Connect on Android. After connecting the Fitbit Air, users can share their sleep information with the Pokémon Sleep app. This lets the game use tracked sleep information as part of its existing gameplay system.

Sleep data powers the Pokémon Sleep experience

To connect the Fitbit Air, users need to sync their device with Health Connect before opening Pokémon Sleep. The wearable’s sleep information can then be linked to the app through its settings. Once the connection is complete, future sleep data can be transferred automatically.

Pokémon Sleep uses this information to create an experience based on how users sleep. After waking, users can find Pokémon with sleep types that are similar to their own gathered around Snorlax. The app also uses a Sleep Score based partly on sleep duration, with the score contributing to Snorlax’s strength.

The Fitbit Air therefore serves as a way to collect sleep information, while Pokémon Sleep turns that data into part of the game’s progression. This gives Pokémon fans an alternative to relying on a compatible smartwatch or another existing wearable connected through Apple’s or Google’s health platforms.

Pre-orders open ahead of September launch

Google has confirmed that the Pokémon Sleep Fitbit Air will be available to pre-order through the Google Store and Target. The device is scheduled to begin shipping on 15 September, giving buyers a short wait between ordering and receiving the new special edition wearable.

Alongside the device, buyers will receive three months of Google Health Premium at no additional cost. The subscription, previously known as Fitbit Premium, provides access to additional health and fitness features, including a Gemini-powered health coach.

The promotion adds another benefit to the Pokémon-themed wearable beyond its design and integration with Pokémon Sleep. However, the device does not introduce a different sleep-tracking system than the standard Fitbit Air. Its main appeal is combining Fitbit’s existing wearable features with a design created specifically for Pokémon fans.

For users already interested in Pokémon Sleep, the new model provides a more closely themed option for tracking sleep. For those who already own a compatible Fitbit or smartwatch, however, the standard connection options may mean there is less reason to switch solely for the Pokémon Sleep functionality.

Google’s special edition Fitbit Air will begin shipping on 15 September, combining the company’s lightweight wearable design with Pokémon Sleep branding and three months of Google Health Premium.