Photo: Fitbit
Fitbit smartwatch users in the European Economic Area will lose access to a wide range of features starting June 2024. Google, which owns Fitbit, announced the removal of third-party apps and watch faces from the Fitbit app gallery, citing compliance with new regulations. The specific regulations are likely linked to the Digital Markets Act, but Google hasn't provided full details yet.
This change impacts models like Fitbit Sense 2 Sense, Versa 4, Versa 3, Versa 2, Versa Lite, Versa, and Ionic (which was recalled due to safety reasons). While users can still download third-party apps until June, their long-term functionality remains unclear. Google will continue to offer its own selection of apps, but the ability to use previously downloaded third-party options is uncertain. And it's also unclear if users can circumvent the restriction once it's in place.
Fitbit's app gallery currently boasts various third-party offerings, including mini-games, training apps, news updates, and even basic tools like calculators. This move suggests a potential shift in Google's priorities regarding Fitbit smartwatches.