The unveiling of the Google Pixel Watch 3 at the previous week’s “Made by Google” event has raised concerns that Google might cease producing smartwatches. Recent speculations indicate that Google is gradually discontinuing the Fitbit Sense or Versa models to focus on its Pixel Watch series.
Nonetheless, Google has refuted these claims, stating that there are no immediate plans to discontinue the Fitbit Sense or Fitbit Versa series, as reported by Ars Technica.
“We remain fully committed to Fitbit and, more importantly, to the consumers who rely on its products and technology. It is worth mentioning that many of the health and fitness features introduced in Pixel Watch 3 were inspired by Fitbit’s innovation and pioneering fitness advancements. Moreover, we have recently launched Fitbit Ace LTE, [a smartwatch for children launched on June 5], and Fitbit will continue to introduce new products and innovations,” a Google representative was quoted as saying.
Since acquiring Fitbit in 2019, Google has been steadily integrating Fitbit’s features into its Pixel-branded smartwatches. For example, the daily readiness score, previously only available to Fitbit Premium subscribers, is now included for free in the newly announced Google Pixel Watch 3. Pixel Watch 3 owners also qualify for a complimentary six-month subscription to Fitbit Premium.
In contrast, the Sense and Versa smartwatches are still missing critical features that allow users to control and access music apps. The Fitbit.com online dashboard and other social features have been removed, and Fitbit smartwatches can no longer be synced with computers, as stated by TechRadar.
In 2022, Google started migrating all Fitbit user accounts and subsequently discontinued the Fitbit SDK for app development. Long-time Fitbit users have reportedly stated that customer service has deteriorated since the acquisition.
“From now on, Fitbit will focus on the more simplistic, durable trackers the brand is known for,” said Sandeep Waraich, the senior director of product management for Pixel Wearables, as quoted by Engadget. “Pixel Watches are our next generation of smartwatch for Fitbit,” he reported. Click here to read more
