Fitbit recently announced a new smartwatch, but that doesn't mean it can't show some love for its older models The company just released SpO2-centric watch dials for existing Fitbit Versa and Fitbit Ionic users

While we wait for the new Fitbit Sense and Fitbit Versa 3, those with Ionic and Versa models (including Versa Lite) can install the SpO2 Signature face

The SpO2 Signature face displays current blood oxygen levels and can be used for both workout and sleep tracking

SpO2 monitoring is of interest now because it is a possible indicator of underlying health conditions While it cannot diagnose blood oxygenation problems, it can prompt a physician to seek medical attention if breathing difficulties are causing sleep disturbances or other ailments

It is also a useful indicator of when one is exercising If blood oxygen levels fall below normal, one should refrain from exercise before injury occurs

The SpO2 Signature watch face, as its name suggests, displays SpO2 readings front and center Users can tap the Fitbit screen to cycle through a menu of indicators, including active zone minutes, heart rate, steps, and stairs

The update comes just ahead of the upcoming launch of Apple Watch 6, which is expected to take place at the just announced Apple Event on Tuesday, September 15 The category-leading next-generation Apple Watch is rumored to feature its own SpO2 monitor

And now that Apple Watch sleep tracking is a reality thanks to watchOS 7, it remains to be seen how or if Apple will incorporate support for blood oxygen monitoring into users' sleep data, or if the Fitbit smartwatch will now be able It will be interesting to see if watch face complications will support active SpO2 measurement, as is currently possible with the Fitbit smartwatch