Fitbit is not going away, but Google is merging it into its own health platform

Fitbit continues to sell fitness trackers and smartwatches, and the devices still work. However, Google acquired Fitbit in 2021 and has been moving Fitbit users toward Google's own health ecosystem. New Fitbit devices launched after the acquisition still function as standalone trackers, but Google is gradually shifting features and data into Google Fit and Google Health, its broader health management platform.

The key change for existing Fitbit owners is that Google now controls the product roadmap. Fitbit as a separate brand and app experience is being phased out over time, though the hardware itself remains available for purchase. If you own a Fitbit device today, it will continue to work, but the company behind it is no longer independent.

Key Takeaways

  • Fitbit devices still work and new models are still sold, but Google owns the brand and is moving users toward Google Fit and Google Health.
  • The standalone Fitbit app is being retired in favor of Google's health apps, though your existing data can be transferred.
  • Older Fitbit devices will continue to function with the current app, but support and updates will eventually end.
  • If you are considering buying a new fitness tracker, research whether Google's ecosystem matches your needs, since Fitbit's independent product development has stopped.

What Google did with Fitbit after the acquisition

Google completed its purchase of Fitbit in November 2021 for approximately $2.1 billion. The acquisition gave Google direct control over Fitbit's hardware, software, and user data. Rather than keep Fitbit as a separate product line, Google began integrating Fitbit's technology into its own health platforms.

In the months following the acquisition, Google announced that it would retire the standalone Fitbit app and move all Fitbit users to the Google Fit app. This transition started in 2023 and is ongoing. Users with existing Fitbit accounts were given the option to link their accounts to Google and transfer their historical data, or to keep using the old Fitbit app for a limited time.

Timeline for the Fitbit app shutdown

Google set January 2025 as the important date for the Fitbit app to stop working on most devices. After that date, Fitbit users must use Google Fit to view their data and control their devices. However, the exact timeline has shifted, and Google has extended some important date for certain regions and device types.

If you own a Fitbit device, check your app for notifications about the transition. Google sent multiple warnings to Fitbit app users starting in 2023. The company also provided tools to export your data if you wanted to leave the Google ecosystem entirely, though most users were encouraged to migrate to Google Fit.

Which Fitbit devices still work

Fitbit trackers and smartwatches released before and after the Google acquisition continue to function. Older models like the Fitbit Charge 4, Fitbit Sense, and Fitbit Inspire 2 still sync data and track activity. However, the device's age and model determine how long it will receive updates and support.

Newer Fitbit devices sold under Google ownership, such as the Fitbit Charge 6 and Fitbit Sense 2, are designed to work with Google Fit from the start. These devices still carry the Fitbit name and design, but they are built on Google's platform. If you buy a new Fitbit device today, it will work, but you are buying a Google product, not an independent Fitbit product.

What happens to your Fitbit data

Your existing Fitbit data does not disappear when the app shuts down. Google allows you to transfer your historical data to Google Fit, where it remains accessible. The transfer includes steps, heart rate, sleep logs, weight, and other metrics you tracked in the Fitbit app.

If you do not want to use Google Fit, you can read your data in a standard format before the Fitbit app stops working. Google provides an export tool that lets you save your information as a CSV file or similar format. However, once you switch away from Google's ecosystem, you lose the ability to sync new data from your Fitbit device automatically.

Should you buy a Fitbit device now

Whether to buy a Fitbit depends on whether you are comfortable with Google's health platform. Fitbit devices are still competent fitness trackers with good battery life and solid build quality. The Fitbit Charge 6, for example, offers heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and GPS in a compact form.

The trade-off is that you are buying into Google's ecosystem. Your health data will be stored in Google's servers and integrated with other Google services. If you already use Google services like Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Maps, this integration may feel natural. If you prefer to keep your health data separate from Google, consider a fitness tracker from another brand like Garmin, Apple, or Oura.

Alternatives if you want to leave Fitbit

If you own a Fitbit and do not want to migrate to Google Fit, you have options. Garmin makes fitness trackers and smartwatches with their own app and ecosystem, separate from Google. Apple Watch works with the Health app on iPhones and iPads. Oura Ring tracks sleep and activity and syncs to its own app. Each of these alternatives has its own strengths and limitations.

Before switching, export your Fitbit data and research how the new device handles the metrics you care about most. Some trackers excel at sleep tracking, others at GPS accuracy or battery life. The device you choose should match your priorities, not just replace your Fitbit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my Fitbit device stop working after the app shuts down?

Your Fitbit device will not stop functioning, but it will not sync new data without the Fitbit app or Google Fit. The hardware itself will continue to track your activity and display information on the device screen. However, you will lose the ability to view your data on your phone or computer unless you switch to Google Fit.

Can I keep using the old Fitbit app instead of switching to Google Fit?

No. Google has shut down the standalone Fitbit app and no longer supports it. The app will not sync data or function properly after the important date. You must use Google Fit to continue tracking with your Fitbit device.

Is my Fitbit data safe with Google?

Google stores Fitbit data on its servers and applies the same privacy policies it uses for other Google services. Your data is encrypted in transit and at rest. However, Google does use health data to improve its services and may share it with third parties under certain conditions. Review Google's privacy policy if you have concerns about how your data is used.

Can I export my Fitbit data and use it with another app?

Yes. Google provides a data export tool that lets you read your Fitbit history as a file. However, most third-party fitness apps do not automatically import Fitbit data. You would need to manually upload the file or re-enter your information, depending on the app. Some apps like Strava or MyFitnessPal can import data from Google Fit if you link your accounts.

Are new Fitbit devices worth buying if Google owns the company?

That depends on your comfort with Google's ecosystem and whether Fitbit's features match your needs. Fitbit devices are still well-made and offer good value for the price. If you want a fitness tracker and do not mind using Google Fit, a Fitbit is a reasonable choice. If you prefer to avoid Google or want features Fitbit does not offer, explore other brands first.