Yes, Google owns Fitbit as of January 2021

Google completed its purchase of Fitbit in January 2021 for approximately $2.1 billion. This means Fitbit is now a subsidiary of Google and operates under Google's parent company, Alphabet Inc. The acquisition gave Google direct control over Fitbit's hardware, software, and the health data collected from millions of Fitbit users worldwide.

Before the acquisition, Fitbit was an independent company founded in 2007 that made fitness trackers and smartwatches. The purchase marked Google's major move into the wearable health device market, complementing its existing health initiatives like Google Fit and its partnerships with health platforms.

Key Takeaways

  • Google acquired Fitbit in January 2021 and now owns the company outright as a subsidiary.
  • Your Fitbit device continues to work the same way after the acquisition, though Google has gradually integrated Fitbit features into its broader health ecosystem.
  • Google has committed to keeping Fitbit data separate from your Google account data, though this integration is expanding over time.
  • New Fitbit devices released after the acquisition include deeper connections to Google services like Google Assistant and Google Home.

How Google integrated Fitbit into its services

After taking over Fitbit, Google began connecting Fitbit devices more closely to Google services. Newer Fitbit models now include Google Assistant, which lets you control smart home devices and ask questions using voice commands. Some Fitbit watches can also receive notifications from your Google Calendar and Gmail.

Google also built bridges between Fitbit's health tracking and Google Fit, its own fitness platform. If you use both services, your step counts and workout data can sync between them. However, this integration is optional — you can still use Fitbit independently without linking it to a Google account.

What happened to your existing Fitbit data

If you owned a Fitbit before Google's acquisition, your device and data remained unchanged when ready after the purchase. Google did not automatically transfer your Fitbit account to a Google account or merge your health data with Google services without your permission.

Over time, Google has offered users the option to link their Fitbit account to a Google account. This is a choice you make yourself — it is not forced. When you do link accounts, your Fitbit data stays in Fitbit's systems but becomes accessible through Google's ecosystem. You can also keep your Fitbit account completely separate from Google if you prefer.

Privacy and data handling after the acquisition

Google made public commitments about how it would handle Fitbit health data. The company stated it would not use Fitbit health and wellness information for Google advertising purposes, and would keep this data separate from other Google services for at least three years following the acquisition. This commitment has extended beyond that initial period.

That said, Google does use aggregated and anonymized Fitbit data for research and product development. Individual health data is not sold to third parties, but it is used to improve Fitbit's features and Google's health services. If you have concerns about data privacy, you can review Google's privacy policy for Fitbit-specific details about what information is collected and how it is used.

Fitbit's independence within Google

Fitbit operates as a distinct brand and product line within Google, rather than being absorbed into a generic Google health division. Fitbit still has its own design team, product roadmap, and customer support. New Fitbit devices are released under the Fitbit name with their own marketing and development cycle.

This structure means that Fitbit has maintained much of its identity and focus on fitness tracking, even though Google owns the company. However, Google's resources have allowed Fitbit to add features faster and integrate with more services than it could as an independent company.

What this means if you buy a new Fitbit today

New Fitbit devices sold today are designed with Google's ecosystem in mind. They come with built-in Google Assistant on many models, can connect to Google Home devices, and offer tighter integration with Google services. During setup, you will be prompted to link your Fitbit to a Google account, though you can skip this step and use Fitbit independently.

Newer Fitbit models also receive software updates through Google's infrastructure rather than Fitbit's old system. This generally means faster updates and longer support, since Google has more resources for ongoing development. However, the core fitness tracking experience — measuring steps, heart rate, sleep, and workouts — remains the same as it was before the acquisition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to link my Fitbit to a Google account?

No. You can set up and use a Fitbit device with just a Fitbit account. Linking to Google is optional and gives you access to additional features like Google Assistant and Google Home integration. You can choose to link later or never link at all.

Will Google sell my Fitbit health data to advertisers?

Google has stated it will not use Fitbit health and wellness data for advertising purposes. However, Google does use aggregated, anonymized data for research and product improvement. Your individual health information is not sold to third parties.

Can I still use Fitbit if I don't have a Google account?

Yes. You can create a Fitbit-only account and use your device without ever connecting it to Google. You will straightforward not have access to Google-specific features like Assistant or Home integration. Basic fitness tracking works the same way.

What happens to my Fitbit if Google stops supporting it?

Fitbit devices will continue to track fitness data even if Google stops releasing software updates, though you may lose access to cloud features and new functionality. Google has not indicated plans to discontinue Fitbit, and the acquisition suggests long-term commitment to the product line.

Are older Fitbit models still supported after the Google acquisition?

Most older Fitbit models continue to work and receive updates, though the timeline varies by device age and model. Very old devices may eventually lose cloud connectivity or app support. Check Fitbit's support site for your specific model to see how long updates are expected to continue.