Google is doing something it has never done before: letting anyone create an accessory for its new screenless Fitbit Air wearable.
The company released full device measurements and accessory guidelines earlier this week. This is a change from how Google typically handles its wearables. Most companies typically only share exact product measurements with approved third-party accessory makers in exchange for a licensing fee. Now, if you have some materials and a dream, you can make your own band instead of buying one.
The problem with making your own band for any wearable without the specs and accessory guidelines comes down to compatibility issues. Google’s blueprints should ensure any DIY band works well with the Fitbit Air.
Of course, it’s not as simple as 3D printing your own bands. You’ll need to take the 2D CAD files and 3D model it yourself if you want to 3D print a band. The device blueprints are more useful if you’re planning to just cut and sew a band, though. Google shares recommendations on how to design for sensor clearance and what types of materials are skin-friendly.
This isn’t just a win for Fitbit Air owners. By releasing that information online, Google has essentially open-sourced the Fitbit Air band in a way that is friendly to both the maker community and users, who now have more places than ever to find a Fitbit Air band of their choice.
Let’s hope the Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds are next in line for this treatment.