Name: Jawbone UP24
What it is: A water-resistant Bluetooth activity monitor made of hypoallergenic rubber that monitors your steps, sleep, etc. Two green LED lights and a vibrating motor signal its power status and whether it is in active or sleep mode. UP24 vibrates to nudge you to do things ranging from moving to waking up or preparing for bed. The band shares data and is programmed via its Android or iOS UP app. The app charts sleep and activity patterns and also helps the band pair with other apps, including MyFitnessPal, RunKeeper and FitStar. A recent firmware update almost doubled the battery life from one week to two on a single charge. UP24 comes with a USB charging plug. Sizes are small, medium and large. Six colors are available, including red, onyx and persimmon.
The good: UP24 is a fantastic travel companion because it does so much more than count my steps. As an alarm clock, it gently awakens me by vibrating at the optimal time for me to wake up. It can be set to wake me 10, 20 or 30 minutes ahead of my scheduled wake-up time if that’s when I am in the lightest sleep. And it monitors my sleep even when I forget to put it in sleep mode. The band is great at reminding me to take a pill, make a call or move when I’ve been sedentary for too long. It’s like wearing a personal assistant.
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The bad: I wish the band was waterproof for swimming laps. It is definitely water resistant, because I’ve occasionally worn it in the shower and the steam room.
Cost: $129.99
Available from: jawbone.com, amazon.com and bestbuy.com