Is Google Planning On Reviving Fitbit? Big Software Update Released Despite Shutdown Plans

Google FitBit Sense 2, Versa 4, and Charge 6 will see an enhancement in their Auto Detect mode, which will now include automatic tracking for rowing, elliptical trainers, and spinning classes

Google advises checking the app to see if the update is available for your device and suggests plugging your device into a charger while the update installs.

Source : FitBit

Google had initially announced that it would shut its FitBit wearable and redirect the resources to other initiatives. However, it has now recently announced a big software update which might contradict its plan to kill the wearable lineup. Google is now launching major software updates for several trackers, including the Fitbit Charge 6, Fitbit Versa 4, and Fitbit Sense 2. This update is being rolled out in a phased manner. Notably, this update won't change the web dashboard drastically but it does assure to introduce some genuine quality-of-life upgrades and improved accuracy.

The Charge 6, Sense 2, Versa 4, and Inspire 3 are being upgraded to version 210.26. Google advises checking the app to see if the update is available for your device and suggests plugging your device into a charger while the update installs.

What's In Google FitBit's Update Patch

The FitBit Sense 2, Versa 4, and Charge 6 will see an enhancement in their Auto Detect mode, which will now include automatic tracking for rowing, elliptical trainers, and spinning classes in addition to its existing capabilities for running, walking, and biking. All three devices will also benefit from improved GPS accuracy, featuring a new option to toggle between onboard and connected GPS modes during workouts.

While older models won't receive as extensive updates as the latest Fitbits, they are still getting some enhancements. The Fitbit Charge 5 and Luxe will now display your daily readiness score directly on the tracker, and the Versa 2 and 3 will receive various bug fixes and improvements.

Why Is This Update Significant?

Since Google's acquisition, Fitbit's trajectory has largely been seen as negative by many of its fans on Community forums and Reddit. 

Users have expressed dissatisfaction with the removal of features and what they perceive as problematic firmware updates. It seems that Google's strategy involves aligning Fitbit's fitness trackers more closely with the Pixel Watch and abruptly discontinuing some older features, which hasn't been well received by the Fitbit community.

This latest set of software updates provides some much-needed relief for Fitbit owners, as Google's involvement appears to be yielding positive changes, such as enhanced heart-rate tracking accuracy through advanced machine learning algorithms.

Additionally, the upcoming release of Fitbit's 'AI chatbot' for Android users later this year offers more reasons for Fitbit enthusiasts to remain hopeful.