Fitbit FB521

Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch User Manual

Model: FB521 | Brand: Fitbit

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health and Fitness Smartwatch. The Sense 2 is designed to assist with stress management, sleep improvement, and overall health monitoring through various integrated tools and sensors.

Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch, Shadow Grey/Graphite, front view showing time and health metrics

Front view of the Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch in Shadow Grey/Graphite, displaying the time and various health metrics.

2. Setup

2.1 Initial Charging

Before first use, fully charge your Fitbit Sense 2. A full charge can provide over 6 days of battery life, with approximately 12 hours of continuous GPS usage. A 12-minute charge can provide up to 24 hours of battery life.

2.2 App Installation & Pairing

  1. Download the Fitbit app from your device's app store (compatible with iPhone or Android devices).
  2. Create or log in to your Google account (required for Fitbit app use).
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions in the Fitbit app to pair your Sense 2 smartwatch via Bluetooth.

2.3 Band Attachment

The Fitbit Sense 2 comes with both small and large bands. Ensure the band is securely attached for accurate sensor readings and comfortable all-day wear. The raised band attachments contribute to comfort.

Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch, Shadow Grey/Graphite, side view showing the band attachment

Side view of the Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch, highlighting the band attachment mechanism.

3. Key Features

  • Stress Management: All-day stress detection with cEDA, daily Stress Management Score, and mindfulness content.
  • Sleep Quality: Personalized Sleep Profile, daily sleep stages & Sleep Score, smart wake alarm, and Do Not Disturb mode.
  • Health Monitoring: ECG app for atrial fibrillation assessment, irregular heart rhythm notifications, SpO2 tracking, and a comprehensive health metrics dashboard.
  • Fitness Tracking: Built-in GPS with workout intensity map, Daily Readiness Score, Active Zone Minutes, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, 40+ exercise modes, and automatic exercise tracking.
  • Smart Functions: On-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts, phone notifications, customizable clock faces, Fitbit Pay, Amazon Alexa built-in, Google Wallet & Maps (Google Maps on Android only, iOS coming Spring 2023).
  • Durability: Water resistant to 50 meters.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic Navigation

The Sense 2 features a responsive touchscreen interface. Swipe left, right, up, or down to navigate through menus, notifications, and quick settings. A physical button on the side provides quick access to frequently used functions or to return to the home screen.

4.2 Accessing Features

From the main clock face, swipe to access various tiles showing your daily activity, heart rate, sleep data, and more. Press the side button to view your app list, including ECG, EDA Scan, Exercise, Alarms, and Settings.

Person wearing Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch while writing in a notebook

The Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch worn on a wrist during daily activities.

5. Health Monitoring

5.1 Stress Management (cEDA)

The Sense 2 continuously monitors your body's responses to stress using cEDA (continuous electrodermal activity) sensor. This data contributes to your daily Stress Management Score and provides insights into your emotional well-being. The device may offer smart notifications to reflect on your emotions and suggest guided breathing or meditation exercises.

Fitbit Sense 2 Stress Management screen showing mood logging and body responses

The Fitbit app's Stress Management dashboard, showing mood logging and body response data from the Sense 2.

5.2 ECG App & Heart Rate

Use the ECG app for on-demand atrial fibrillation assessment. The device also provides irregular heart rhythm notifications and 24/7 heart rate tracking with high and low heart rate alerts. The ECG app is for users 22 years and older and not for those with known arrhythmias.

Fitbit Sense 2 Heart Health screen showing ECG app and heart rate trends

The Fitbit app's Heart Health section, displaying ECG app access and heart rate trends.

5.3 SpO2 & Health Metrics

Monitor your blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and other health metrics like heart rate variability and skin temperature from the Health Metrics dashboard in the Fitbit app. Note that the SpO2 feature may require more frequent charging.

Fitbit Sense 2 Health Metrics screen showing SpO2, breathing rate, and skin temperature

The Fitbit app's Health Metrics dashboard, showing SpO2 levels, breathing rate, and skin temperature changes.

6. Fitness Tracking

The Sense 2 is equipped with built-in GPS to track your pace and distance during outdoor activities without needing your phone. It offers over 40 exercise modes and automatic exercise tracking. The Daily Readiness Score (requires Premium) indicates your body's readiness for a workout, and Active Zone Minutes help you achieve your weekly activity goals.

Fitbit Sense 2 Fitness screen showing GPS tracking and Daily Readiness Score

The Fitbit app's Fitness section, showing GPS tracking for a bike ride and the Daily Readiness Score.

Video: Overview of the Fitbit Sense 2's fitness tracking capabilities and daily routine integration.

Video: Three key features of the Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health and Fitness Smartwatch.

7. Sleep Tracking

The Sense 2 provides a personalized Sleep Profile (requires Premium) that analyzes your sleep data each month. It tracks daily sleep stages and provides a Sleep Score to help you understand and improve your sleep quality. Features like smart wake alarms and Do Not Disturb mode further enhance your sleep experience.

Fitbit Sense 2 Sleep Tracking screen showing Sleep Score and Sleep Profile

The Fitbit app's Sleep section, illustrating the Sleep Profile and Sleep Score based on tracked data.

8. Smart Features

Stay connected with on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts, and phone notifications when your phone is nearby. Customize your device with various clock faces. The Sense 2 supports Fitbit Pay for contactless payments and has Amazon Alexa built-in for voice commands. Google Wallet & Maps are also supported (Google Maps on Android only, iOS coming Spring 2023).

Video: A quick overview of essential features and considerations before purchasing the Fitbit Sense 2.

9. Maintenance & Care

9.1 Water Resistance

The Fitbit Sense 2 is water resistant to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and showering. After exposure to water, it is recommended to dry the device and your wrist to prevent skin irritation.

9.2 Cleaning

Regularly clean your Sense 2 and its band to ensure optimal performance and hygiene. Use a soft, lint-free cloth. For the band, a mild soap and water solution can be used, followed by thorough rinsing and drying.

10. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your Fitbit Sense 2, try the following:

  • Restart Device: A simple restart can resolve many minor software glitches.
  • Check App Connection: Ensure your Sense 2 is properly synced with the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
  • Update Software: Verify that your device's firmware and the Fitbit app are up to date.
  • Sensor Accuracy: Ensure the watch is worn snugly but comfortably on your wrist for accurate heart rate and other sensor readings.

Video: A comparison between Fitbit Sense 1 and Sense 2, highlighting key differences and upgrades.

Video: Important information to consider regarding the Fitbit Sense 2 and Fitbit Versa 3.

11. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Product Dimensions1.57 x 0.47 x 1.57 inches
Item Model NumberFB521
Weight6.72 ounces
Batteries1 LR44 batteries required (included)
Operating SystemAndroid (compatible with iOS)
Memory Storage Capacity4 GB
Connectivity TechnologyBluetooth
Wireless Communication StandardBluetooth
Battery Cell CompositionLithium Ion
GPSBuilt-in GPS
ShapeSquare
Screen Size1.58 Inches

12. Warranty & Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official Fitbit website or contact Fitbit customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.