This is a big change in how you log into Fitbit. Existing Fitbit users will be able to log in with a Google account starting this summer. For any new device setups, users who do not have a Fitbit account or an existing one will need to create one.
This news is not surprising. Last fall, Google announced that all Fitbit users would eventually need to migrate to Google accounts. The switchover would begin on a gradual and optional basis in 2023. This is a sign that the process of migrating is proceeding as planned.
Google reiterated that existing Fitbit users do not have to switch immediately. However, prompts will begin appearing when users open the Fitbit app. Users can also go to the Settings menu. Google claims that migrating logins will not have any impact on historical health and wellness data.
Google has been more aggressive in integrating Fitbit’s products and services into its own portfolio since the Pixel Watch was launched last fall. (The company has been technically rebranded as Fitbit by Google.) This has left many long-time Fitbit users unhappy, particularly given frequent server down ages and a dearth of replacements for legacy features such as challenges and open groups that were retired last month.
Google has made the login changes more user-friendly by allowing users to use one password to access both services, rather than two. Google also stated that users can access their Fitbit data via the Google Privacy Center. Google claims that Fitbit data, which will be kept separate from Google Ads data, will not be used to target ads according to terms as set out by EU regulators.
Google has reiterated that the “Fitbit data on health and well-being will not be used for Google Ads” and that it will be kept separate from Google Ads data.
Fitbit advises users not to expect any changes in their ability to access historical data regarding health and well-being. The upcoming move is described as laying the foundation for future Fitbit capabilities. Similar terminology was used to describe recent Challenges removals and open groups.
This feature will be available in the summer. Users will notice a prompt in their Fitbit app or an option in their app settings to migrate to logging into a Google Account. You’ll be able to “review and modify your current setup before you move”.
Existing Fitbit users won’t have to change until 2025. However, new Fitbit users will need a Google Account to set up their devices when the service is available.
