Fitbit OS on the Sense and Versa 3 won't be available on earlier wearables

Fitbit Sense (Source: Fitbit)

Even if the Fitbit Versa 2 is just a year old, unfortunately, it won't be getting the latest version of Fitbit's smartwatch software. The Fitbit OS 5.0 platform was developed "exclusively" for the newer wearables and "optimized" for the Sense and Versa 3's latest displays and speaker technology. OS 5.0 introduces a new interface navigation method and interface that takes advantage of the higher resolution screens. And while it can run older apps, these need to run in a compatibility mode.

Developers can't distribute a single version of an app optimized for both old and new smartwatches. What they can do is release different versions that will reach the right users. Those who own older Fitbit Versa smartwatches can still use theirs just fine (our first-generation Versa still works well); it's just they won't get the steady stream of new features.

Source: Engadget

Large Fitbit OS update brings new apps and functionality to Fitbit Ionic

Whiile it is a reliable and stylish fitness tracker, the Fitbit Ionic may have seemed anemic as a smartwatch. That's changing today thanks to the new Fitbit OS update. we're now seeing apps for home automation, entertainment, news and much requested clock faces. I am currently installing the update with a Windows 10 PC connected directly to the Fitbit Ionic using the companion app. I'll post impressions as soon as I've spent some time with the new OS.

Available throught the Fitbit app on Android, iOS and Windows, the update adds more than 60 apps now available across a wide range of categories, 100+ clock faces, and enhanced performance.

Fitbit is also introducing Fitbit Labs, a Fitbit Research initiative that will bring innovative apps and intelligent clock face experiences to users to motivate and drive behavior change, and help accelerate the company’s pace of innovation.

Additionally, Fitbit is partnering with Deezer, the world’s most dynamic, diverse and personal music streaming service, to provide international users the ability to listen to music directly from their wrist with Fitbit Ionic in 2018.

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