If you are a fitness enthusiast and a Fitbit user, you are likely already aware of the recent changes in the Fitbit app. Google, which acquired Fitbit in 2019, has announced an exciting overhaul of the app, set to roll out later this year. This major redesign aims to provide users with a simpler, more motivating experience and better integration with Google’s array of products and services. In this comprehensive beginner’s guide, we will delve into the exciting new features, how it impacts your fitness journey, and how we aim to outrank other articles on the topic.
What is the Fitbit app?
The Fitbit app serves as the perfect companion to your Fitbit device, whether you have a smartwatch, fitness tracker, or smart scale. Its primary function is to sync data from your device, allowing you to track various aspects of your health, such as activity, sleep, heart rate, stress levels, and more. But that's not all! The app provides a wealth of additional features, including challenges, guided workouts, mindfulness sessions, personalized insights, and wellness tips, all aimed at improving your overall health and wellness.
Best of all, the Fitbit app is accessible for free on both Android and iOS devices. For users looking for even more features and benefits, Fitbit Premium offers a subscription service with advanced health metrics, wellness reports, nutrition plans, and exclusive content from renowned partners like Deepak Chopra and Ayesha Curry.
What’s new in the Fitbit app?
The revamped Fitbit app introduces three primary tabs at the bottom of the interface, each offering distinct functionalities to enhance your experience:
Today:
This tab provides an instant overview of your latest stats and progress. Additionally, it allows you to set a daily focus, be it heart health, exercise, sleep, or stress. Based on your focus, the app provides relevant data and insights. You can also log your food intake, water consumption, weight, and menstrual cycle within this tab.
Coach:
The Coach tab opens the gateway to a plethora of workouts and mindfulness sessions tailored to your goals and preferences. Choose from an extensive library of video and audio sessions offered by Fitbit’s own trainers or esteemed partners like Daily Burn and Headspace. Furthermore, you can join guided programs that span over time, providing you with structured workout routines or meditation sessions. It's important to note that some content within this tab may require a Fitbit Premium subscription.
You:
In this tab, you can manage your account settings, stay connected with the community, and track your personal progress. View your badges, achievements, goals, friends, groups, challenges, notifications, and profile, all in one convenient location.
The new Fitbit app will also boast a design more aligned with Google’s aesthetics, featuring larger elements, fresh icons, and a new color palette. Rumors also suggest that it may support dynamic wallpaper-based theming as part of Google’s Material You design language.
What’s next for the Fitbit app?
The transformation of the Fitbit app extends beyond mere cosmetics; it signifies Google’s intent to integrate its products and services with Fitbit's ecosystem. Some exciting potential developments include:
Google Assistant:
As some Fitbit devices already support Google Assistant, the new app could further enhance this integration. Imagine using Google Assistant to control device settings, initiate workouts or mindfulness sessions, receive health tips, and more.
Google Health:
Google is reportedly developing a comprehensive health app that consolidates data from various sources, including Google Fit, Wear OS devices, and third-party apps. It's plausible that this new app will also incorporate data from your Fitbit device, offering deeper insights and recommendations through the power of Google’s artificial intelligence.
Google Pay:
Already available on select Fitbit devices, Google Pay may extend its functionality in the new app. You might soon be able to use Google Pay to purchase Fitbit Premium subscriptions and access other products and services from Fitbit and its partners.
Pixel Watch:
There are rumors circulating about Google's upcoming smartwatch, possibly named the Pixel Watch. This device could run on Wear OS 3.0, the latest version of Google’s operating system for smartwatches, which will also power Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 4 series. The Pixel Watch may even integrate features compatible with Fitbit devices, providing users with an exciting fusion of technologies.
How will the new Fitbit app affect your fitness journey?
The revamp of the Fitbit app brings forth a fresh and simplified user experience, making it easier for users to access their data and content. This, in turn, allows for a seamless and engaging fitness journey. Moreover, the integration with Google’s products and services brings forth numerous advantages that can further enhance your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.
However, like any major update, the new Fitbit app may present some challenges and potential drawbacks for certain users:
Privacy Concerns:
With the increased integration into Google's ecosystem, some users might express concern about how their health data will be used and shared with third-party partners or advertisers. While Google has stated its commitment to safeguarding user privacy and not using Fitbit data for targeted ads, individuals may still desire to review their privacy settings and preferences within the app.
Compatibility Issues:
Certain Fitbit users may encounter compatibility issues with their existing devices or third-party apps that are currently integrated with Fitbit. Older Fitbit devices may not support all the new app features, and some third-party apps might not sync seamlessly with the updated platform. Users may need to consider updating their devices or opting for newer ones that fully support the new app.
Community Features:
Some users who enjoyed the social aspect of the Fitbit app, such as participating in Challenges, Adventures, and earning Trophies, may miss these features in the new update. In such cases, users may need to find alternative ways to stay motivated and connected with friends or explore other fitness communities online or offline.
How can you get ready for the new Fitbit app?
The highly anticipated new Fitbit app is set to release later this year on both Android and iOS platforms. To ensure a smooth transition and make the most of the exciting updates, follow these steps:
Back Up Your Data:
Before updating the app, it's a good idea to back up your Fitbit data. This precautionary measure helps safeguard against potential data loss during the update process. You can export your data from the Fitbit website or rely on third-party apps like Sync Solver or FitnessSyncer to sync your data with other platforms, such as Apple Health or Google Fit.
Explore the New Features:
Once you've updated the app, take the time to explore the new features and functions it offers. Set your daily focus, access fresh workouts and mindfulness sessions, view badges and achievements, and more. Familiarize yourself with the redesigned interface and compare it with the previous version.
Adjust Your Settings:
Customize your settings and preferences within the new Fitbit app, particularly concerning privacy and notifications. Review how Google plans to use your data and decide if you're comfortable with any data sharing or personalization features. Tailor your notification settings to receive updates that matter most to you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the new Fitbit app presents a significant transformation that will revolutionize the fitness journey for Fitbit users. With a simpler design, motivating content, and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem, the app offers numerous benefits. However, it's essential to be aware of potential challenges, such as privacy concerns and compatibility issues, and make necessary adjustments.
