Fitbit buy is Google’s latest step into gadgetry

The Fitbit deal, which is expected to close next year, will also give Google another big chunk of personal health and location data. — AP

Google's acquisition of wearable pioneer Fitbit may be a bold plunge into health and fitness technology. But it's also just the latest step in the Internet giant's often-halting effort to become a force in consumer hardware.

Once a pure software company known for its search engine, apps like Gmail and its Android software for smartphones, Google has for the last several years been building out its own suite of hardware products. These include its niche Pixel smartphones and a variety of smart gadgets from speakers to thermostats to WiFi routers, all recently rebranded as "Nest" products.