Google Health 5.11 expands workout logging
The update doubles automatic activity detection to 100 types and adds new health monitoring tools for Fitbit Air users.
By Thiago Kovalenko ·
Google released version 5.11 of its Google Health app this week, bringing major changes to activity tracking and health monitoring for Fitbit and Pixel Watch users. The update is already available on the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5 models. The Fitbit Edge will receive the new features when the device launches on October 27.
The primary change involves automatic activity detection. Devices can now recognize up to 100 different types of physical activity, an increase from the previous limit of 10. This expansion includes strength training, swimming, and various racket and team sports. Google stated that the system uses contextual reasoning based on user routines, historical data, and manual edits to improve accuracy.
According to the company, these changes make detection nearly twice as accurate and reduce missed workouts by more than half. A session is logged automatically if it exceeds a default 15-minute duration and shows a sustained elevated heart rate. A summary typically appears in the app within 30 minutes. The system learns from user confirmations or edits to refine future predictions.
New monitoring tools are available for Google Health Premium subscribers who own a Fitbit Air or Fitbit Edge. Blood pressure trends and insulin resistance trends are now set up, with initial reports due in early November. Blood pressure trends require users to have worn a Fitbit Air for at least five consecutive days in October. Insulin resistance trends require seven days and nights of wear during the month.
The app also updates its glucose tracking features. The label 'Blood glucose' has been changed to 'Glucose' throughout the interface. Users can now set custom time-in-range goals for data from connected continuous glucose monitors. In the US, Abbott's Lingo device connects directly to the app, displaying readings within 30 minutes. Premium members can ask the Google Health Coach about these glucose trends.
Sleep tracking received two specific refinements. The system now uses step data to better identify short awakenings, such as trips to the bathroom. Users can also remove a nap that does not align with their daily schedule directly from the nap card. Version 5.11 is currently available on iOS and is rolling out to Android devices.
