Amazon Halo Fitness Band Now Available - US Release

Considering the extensive…input Amazon has gathered, it’s surprising the Halo wasn’t generally accessible until now. Initially revealed in late August, the device was initially available through an “early access” program for select individuals. This situation shifts today, as the product becomes available to all customers across the U.S.

The wristband is priced at $100, which covers a six-month membership. It was likely only a matter of time before the company introduced a fitness-focused product, although Amazon is entering the market somewhat later than others in terms of device design. Smartwatches have become a leading choice for advanced fitness tracking. Bands remain popular on the more affordable end of the market, typically selling for considerably less.

The Halo distinguishes itself through its voice analysis capabilities and the extensive amount of data it gathers and analyzes—developments that aren’t particularly unexpected from Amazon. This includes analyzing the user’s vocal tone, which has prompted some…varied reactions. Here’s how Amazon explains this feature:

Body fat percentage measurement is also raising questions. Initial assessments have described the technology as “intrusive,” and it has also attracted attention from legislators. Senator Amy Klobuchar sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services.

“While innovative wearable fitness devices empower individuals to track their health, these devices grant companies unprecedented access to sensitive personal data with minimal regulation,” Klobuchar stated. “Greater efforts are needed to safeguard the privacy and security of consumer health devices.”

Amazon has been actively addressing privacy concerns, emphasizing that body scans are stored solely on the device that performed the scan. “Protecting privacy was central to the design and development of Amazon Halo,” a company representative explained to The Washington Post. “Both Body and Tone are optional features and are not necessary for using the product.”

Amazon faces the challenging dual objective of reassuring customers about their privacy while simultaneously striving to differentiate its product in a highly competitive marketplace.