Google Shuts Down Fitbit.com – What It Means for Fitness Tracker Fans

Starting October 1, 2024, Fitbit.com will no longer exist as we know it. In a move signaling Google’s deeper integration of Fitbit into its ecosystem, the tech giant has confirmed the closure of the Fitbit website. But what does this mean for the loyal fans of Fitbit’s fitness trackers and smartwatches?

Here’s everything you need to know.

Fitbit Moves to Google Store Starting A New Chapter for Fitness Tracking Fans

If you visit Fitbit.com today, you’ll notice a banner announcing the change. As of October 1, all Fitbit-related products and services will now be housed on the Google Store. A quick click will take you to a dedicated section where you’ll find Fitbit’s best fitness trackers like the Charge 6, Inspire 3, and Luxe, all still available for purchase.

This shift may feel bittersweet for longtime Fitbit users. Since Google acquired Fitbit in 2022, many have been wondering what the future holds for the popular fitness tracking brand. And while Google’s statement suggests a strong commitment to the technology behind Fitbit, it’s clear that big changes are underway.

Fitbit’s Influence on Google’s Smartwatch Line

The closure of Fitbit.com is part of a broader strategy by Google to integrate Fitbit’s tech into its own wearables lineup. With the launch of the Google Pixel Watch 3 in August, we’ve already seen the first major fruits of this merger. Google’s latest smartwatch incorporates several holistic fitness features pioneered by Fitbit—some of which were previously locked behind a paywall.

The Pixel Watch now stands as Google’s flagship wearable, signaling the end of Fitbit-branded smartwatches. Models like the Fitbit Sense 2 and Fitbit Versa 4 are still available, but Google has confirmed that they will be the last of their kind. Going forward, it’s clear that Google’s primary smartwatch focus will be on its Pixel Watch series.

What About Fitness Trackers?

For those who prefer fitness trackers over smartwatches, there’s no immediate cause for concern. Google has indicated that it plans to continue selling dedicated fitness trackers under the Fitbit brand for the time being. Models like the Charge 6, Inspire 3, and Luxe will remain available, and there has been no announcement of Google producing its own version of these fitness-focused devices.

However, with the shift to the Google Store, Fitbit’s presence as an independent brand is gradually fading. It wouldn’t be surprising if Google eventually developed its own fitness tracking technology under the Pixel name, given its penchant for streamlining product lines under its ecosystem.

What Does This Mean for Fitbit Users?

The biggest impact for Fitbit users may come in the form of reduced brand identity. As Google phases out Fitbit-branded smartwatches and transitions sales to its own store, some users may feel a sense of loss. Fitbit, once synonymous with fitness tracking innovation, is being absorbed into the broader Google universe. While Google insists it remains committed to the products and customers that depend on Fitbit technology, only time will tell how this plays out in terms of customer support and future product development.

For now, existing Fitbit devices remain fully functional, and Google appears dedicated to supporting the technology behind the brand. Fitbit fans can continue to enjoy their devices, but it’s clear that Fitbit as an independent entity is slowly being phased out.

Google’s decision to shut down Fitbit.com marks the end of an era for one of the most well-known fitness tracking brands. While the fitness trackers themselves will still be available on the Google Store, this move underscores Google’s focus on streamlining its wearable tech offerings. Fitbit’s legacy lives on through the technology integrated into Google’s Pixel Watch, but the Fitbit brand as we know it may soon be a thing of the past.

For Fitbit fans, now is the time to watch closely as Google continues to reshape the future of fitness tracking.