The newly redesigned Google Health app, which has transitioned from its previous identity as Fitbit, has made its debut alongside the Fitbit Air. While the reception has been mixed, my personal experience over the past six months has leaned positively. Since the rollout of the Health Coach preview at the end of 2025, I have explored the revamped user interface and its accompanying features. Although the upgrade has introduced several valuable enhancements, there remains room for further improvement. Here are my key takeaways from my time with the new Google Health app.
One of the standout features is the daily run recommendations, which Google has effectively expanded by integrating AI throughout the app experience. However, I have encountered a limitation: the inability to send non-running workouts to my Pixel Watch, which feels like either a bug or an oversight. The workout interface is more structured and user-friendly, yet the Pixel Watch still lacks the capability to automatically count reps or sets—a feature I appreciate in Garmin and Samsung smartwatches. On a brighter note, workouts can now automatically transition to the next exercise after a set timer, though the addition of auto rep counting would enhance this functionality.
Another aspect that could use refinement is the way workouts are categorized in the Fitness tab as “suggestions,” which feels less definitive compared to the previous structure where each day had a designated workout or rest period. Fortunately, Google has acknowledged user feedback regarding the need for more structured schedules and has committed to reintroducing them later this year. Until then, this flexible format may appeal to users who prefer a less rigid approach.
Encouragement goes a long way
Despite the sometimes overwhelming presence of AI in the Google Health app, I find it to be quite motivating. The messages are insightful, taking into account my activity, sleep, and other metrics to prepare me for the day ahead. For instance, after an intense start to the week, the app encouraged me to take a rest day on Wednesday, stating that it was “exactly what your system needed.” It even suggested a light walk to keep things low-key while preparing me for a return to the gym the following day, reminding me to set an alarm, pack my gear, and stay hydrated.
The Health Coach frequently delivers these encouraging messages as notifications throughout the day, whether after a workout or upon waking. If it detects any discrepancies, such as insufficient restful sleep, it adjusts its guidance accordingly. Users can engage with the Health Coach for deeper insights into their sleep patterns, workouts, or other metrics. For example, during a week of travel, I needed to adjust my workout schedule, and the Coach collaborated with me to modify my goals based on my availability. This flexibility is a significant advantage, and users can also seek advice on improving specific metrics, complete with resource links.
Almost a replacement for MyFitnessPal
The food logging feature in Google Health is one I want to embrace fully, but it falls short in accuracy. Users can log meals by either describing what they ate or taking a photo. The object recognition technology is surprisingly adept, accurately identifying many meals. Additionally, the option to scan barcodes offers a convenient alternative to MyFitnessPal’s subscription-based feature. However, the nutritional information logged remains inconsistent. For instance, when I photographed a meal of scrambled eggs and ground beef, the app recognized the items but inaccurately assessed the protein content.
Even when scanning a Barbell protein bar with clearly listed nutritional values, the app still miscalculated the calorie count. Thankfully, Google Health syncs with MyFitnessPal, allowing me to log meals accurately in that app. I hope Google can enhance its food logging capabilities, as this improvement would bring the Google Health app closer to being my all-in-one health solution.
My health in one place
Google appears to be striving for a comprehensive health management solution with the Health app, especially with the ability to link medical records. After connecting my medical providers, I can now access my conditions, medications, visit history, vaccinations, and lab results all in one location. This centralized approach not only simplifies my health monitoring but also provides valuable context for the Health Coach in assessing my overall well-being.
Users can log new lab results manually if they do not sync automatically, although the app generally does a commendable job of keeping information up to date. However, the presentation of historical data can feel overwhelming, especially when viewing extensive records of lab results, medications, and conditions. The Health Coach can also provide insights into medical history, alerting me to any test results that fall outside normal limits. While some may find this access beneficial, others might view it as intrusive. Users have control over what information is synced, and Google assures that data is securely stored, only sharing information to verify identity with CLEAR.
More to come
While Google Health is not without its flaws, there are several areas that require attention and enhancement. Users have reported instances of the AI Health Coach providing inaccurate information, although I have not personally experienced this. I do miss the sleep profiles feature from the previous Fitbit app, which matched users with charming animals based on their sleep patterns. Fortunately, Google is actively working on updates, and while sleep profiles are not currently on the list, I remain hopeful.
Overall, it is encouraging to see Google responding to user feedback in its quest to develop a comprehensive health app. I look forward to the future enhancements and encourage users to provide feedback on features and AI responses to help shape the app’s evolution.
