Misfit makes a splash with new swim tracker

Wearables company Misfit has partnered once again with Speedo to create a new and improved tracker for swimming – the Misfit Shine 2 Swimmer’s Edition.

The device uses similar hardware to the earlier version but adds new algorithms to its firmware. Misfit is in competition with other companies, such as Garmin and TomTom, that already sell watches that can count swimming laps.

The Speedo Shine’s wearable is worn on the wrist and capable of tracking swim distance down to the meter, it counts swim laps for 25 and 50 meter pools, and provides a workout timer that buzzes when your countdown is complete. After your session, open up the Misfit app or Speedo’s personalized swim-tracking app – Speedo Fit, and dive into more detailed data.

“Whether you’re training competitively or swimming for fitness, you want your focus to be on speed and form – not tracking laps. With the Speedo Shine 2, you can concentrate on your efforts in the pool without distractions,” said Team Speedo USA athlete Cullen Jones.

“Speedo Shine 2 is an ideal aid for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to maximize their time in the water while keeping track of their overall fitness and sleep.”

According to Misfit, the device offers “industry-leading accuracy”. However just like the original device, Speedo Shine 2 cannot count the individual number of strokes or identify stroke types, which some of the more expensive swimming watches can do.

Out of the water, the wearable automatically tracks steps, distance, calories, and light and restful sleep. It delivers vibration notifications for calls, text alerts, smart alarms, and movement reminders. It is also enabled to become a smart button—pair it with Misfit Link to control music, lighting, and a wide range of connected home devices, including Nest.

Good news for owners of existing Misfit devices. The company has decided to enable Speedo’s algorithms on any Misfit Shine 2  or Misfit Ray device device for a $9.99 in-app purchase.

In terms of design, Speedo Shine 2 is thinner, stronger, and faster than the original device, with improved capacitive touch responsiveness, faster wireless syncing, and extended Bluetooth range. Double tap to check activity progress or the time with 12 multicolour LED lights that are bright enough to be seen in direct sunlight.

And like all Misfit trackers, Speedo Shine 2 doesn’t need charging. Replaceable batteries last up to six months, so it can be worn at all times.