Change the time in the Fitbit app on your phone
The fastest way to update your Fitbit's time is through the Fitbit app on your smartphone. Open the app, tap the profile icon (usually in the bottom right corner), select your device, and look for "Clock" or "Time" in the settings. Tap it, then choose your time zone from the list. The device syncs automatically once you confirm—no manual entry needed.
This method works for almost all Fitbit models: Charge, Inspire, Sense, Versa, and Ace. The app handles the sync wirelessly over Bluetooth, so make sure your phone and Fitbit are within 30 feet of each other and both have Bluetooth turned on. The time usually updates within a few seconds.
Key Takeaways
- The Fitbit app on your phone is the easiest way to change the time—select your device, find Clock settings, and choose your time zone.
- Your Fitbit syncs the time automatically from your phone's time zone, so you do not need to enter the time manually.
- If the app does not sync, restart both your phone and Fitbit, then try again.
- Some older Fitbit models may not have a Clock setting in the app; check your device manual if you cannot find it.
What to do if the time does not update after syncing
If you changed the time zone in the app but your Fitbit still shows the wrong time, the sync may not have completed. Close the Fitbit app completely (swipe it away on iPhone or use the back button on Android), wait 10 seconds, then open it again and check the device page. Sometimes the app needs a fresh start to push the change through.
If that does not work, restart your Fitbit itself. The method depends on your model: most Fitbits restart by holding the button on the side for 10 to 15 seconds until you see the Fitbit logo. After the restart, open the app again and let it sync. This clears any stuck settings and usually fixes time zone problems.
Checking your phone's time zone first
Your Fitbit pulls the time from your phone's settings, not from the internet directly. If your phone's time zone is wrong, your Fitbit will be wrong too. Go to your phone's Settings app, find Date & Time (or similar), and make sure the time zone matches where you actually are. On most phones, you can toggle "Automatic" or "Set automatically" to let the phone detect your location.
Once your phone shows the correct time and time zone, open the Fitbit app and sync again. Your Fitbit should pick up the correct time within seconds. This is the most common reason a Fitbit shows the wrong time after a sync attempt.
Manual time entry on older Fitbit models
A few older Fitbit models (like some Flex or One devices) do not sync time through the app and require manual entry on the device itself. If your Fitbit has a small screen or no app setting for Clock, check the physical buttons on the device. You may need to hold a button to enter time-setting mode, then use other buttons to adjust hours and minutes.
Your Fitbit's manual or support page will show the exact button sequence for your model. Search "Fitbit [your model name] manual" online, or visit the Fitbit support website and enter your device type to find instructions. Manual entry is slower but works the same way—the time stays set until you change it again.
Daylight saving time and automatic updates
When daylight saving time begins or ends, your Fitbit updates automatically if you have the app set to your correct time zone. You do not need to do anything—the change happens on its own. This is one reason the app method is better than manual entry: you never have to remember to adjust for daylight saving.
If your Fitbit did not update for daylight saving, it usually means your phone's time zone setting is wrong or set to manual instead of automatic. Check your phone's Date & Time settings and make sure automatic time zone detection is turned on. Then sync the Fitbit app again.
Traveling to a different time zone
When you travel, your Fitbit updates to the new time zone automatically as long as your phone does. Most phones detect your location and switch time zones on their own. If yours does not, go to Settings, find Date & Time, and manually select your new time zone. Open the Fitbit app and let it sync—your device will show the correct local time within seconds.
You do not need to do anything special or restart your Fitbit. The app handles the change in the background. If you want to keep your Fitbit on your home time zone while traveling (to track sleep or workouts on your original schedule), you can manually set your phone's time zone back after the Fitbit syncs, but most people find it easier to just let both devices follow the local time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Fitbit show the wrong time even after I synced it?
Your phone's time zone is probably set wrong. Go to your phone's Settings, find Date & Time, and make sure it shows your current location. Then close and reopen the Fitbit app to sync again. If your phone shows the correct time, your Fitbit will too.
Can I set my Fitbit to a different time zone than my phone?
No. Your Fitbit always uses your phone's time zone. If you need a different time, you would have to change your phone's time zone, sync the Fitbit, then change your phone back—which is not practical. Most users just let both devices follow their current location.
Do I have to restart my Fitbit to change the time?
Not usually. The app syncs the time without a restart. Only restart if the sync does not work after you have checked your phone's time zone and closed and reopened the app.
What if the Clock setting is not in my Fitbit app?
Older Fitbit models may not have a Clock setting in the app. Check your device manual or the Fitbit support website for your specific model. You may need to set the time manually on the device itself using its buttons.
Does my Fitbit update automatically for daylight saving time?
Yes, as long as your phone's time zone is set to automatic. Your Fitbit syncs with your phone and updates on its own when daylight saving begins or ends. You do not need to do anything.