Fitbit users with certain models of smartwatches approved in the European Union (EU) are in line to get something that is not desirable. On June 1, 2024, Google will shut down the Fitbit App Library as owned by Fitbit and it will block third-party watch faces and apps from the Fitbit App Gallery for these users. The only excuse they give us is that it is just a matter of “compliance with rules”, but there is nothing special in it and it raises many questions.
This change has been made to almost half of the models of Fitbit smartwatches like the Sense series, Versa series, and even the Ionic which is the first one. The vague formulation of the phrase “regulatory requirements” gives rise to the notion that digital markets may also be intended under the EU Digital Markets Act. The purpose of this Act is to encourage fair competition in the digital market and removing third-party options without a complete revamp of the App Gallery may be a convenient option for Google.
Many individuals who are left with no option but to take up responsibilities try to regain their self-esteem which has diminished due to job cuts. With the Pixel Watch, Google hasn’t abandoned Fitbit entirely. Instead, the Fitbit branding seems secondary and vague compared to the Pixel Watch, perhaps due to a decision by the company. It’s clear how the Fitbit team was downsized, Fitbit devices had been available in some regions for a while, and smartwatches without the actual Wear OS that Fitbit ran on were missing.
Since Fitbit watches are already well established in their systems, including a dedicated Fitbit app in the device ecosystem, it becomes less logical to maintain the same series of smartwatches. In this regard, transparency from Google by highlighting its plans for Fitbits could be a better approach. They may have to start here for their loyal users.
