Google has announced that Fitbit users in Europe will soon have third-party apps and watch faces removed from their devices. Starting in June 2024, third-party content will be eliminated from Fitbit Sense, Sense 2, Versa family, and the Fitbit Ionic. Lower-end models like the Inspire did not have third-party content to begin with.
Google cited 'new regulatory requirements' affecting users in Europe, specifically the European Economic Area. Users outside of Europe will not be impacted by this change.
Third-party content on Fitbit devices used to be a significant feature but has been declining since Google acquired Fitbit in 2021. The removal of third-party software will not affect most users, as newer models like Versa 4 and Sense 2 were launched without third-party app support.
Older models that had preloaded third-party apps, such as Spotify, will also have these features removed. The removal process is expected to occur when a Fitbit watch is synced to the Fitbit app.
Fitbit watches are now more focused on Fitbit Premium, a subscription service offering advanced metrics, video workouts, and nutrition plans for $9.99 per month. This shift indicates a move away from third-party app support towards a more integrated Fitbit ecosystem.
