Your Fitbit gets a downgrade as Google confirms 'disruptive' shutdown within weeks

Google to Discontinue Google Assistant on Select Fitbit Smartwatches

Owners of certain Fitbit models will soon see a key capability deactivated. Google, the parent company of Fitbit since 2021, has announced it will begin phasing out its integrated voice assistant on popular wearables, including the Fitbit Sense and Versa series smartwatches. This change will remove the Google Assistant feature from these devices in the coming weeks.

Feature Phased Out After Several Years

The voice assistant feature, initially introduced in 2020, allowed users to perform actions such as asking questions, setting timers, and initiating workouts using only voice commands.

For users who have utilized this functionality, it will soon be discontinued.

vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.

The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.

In a statement, Google confirmed the upcoming change: “We want to share an update regarding Google Assistant on Fitbit Smartwatches. Over the next few weeks we will be progressively phasing out Google Assistant on your Fitbit device. This change means that Google Assistant voice control for activities will soon no longer be available.”

Google acknowledged the potential disruption and stated, “We understand that changes can be disruptive, and we value your feedback. We remain committed to continuously improving your Fitbit app and developing exciting new features.”

Users Report In-App Notifications

Some users have already reported seeing on-screen messages indicating the forthcoming removal of the Google Assistant. The notification states, “Google Assistant on Fitbit watches is being turned down; this feature will stop working in the coming weeks.”

Reports suggest this notification may persist until the Assistant system is fully deactivated.

Shift to Advanced Gemini Assistant

The decision to remove Google Assistant is attributed to Google’s strategic shift away from older smart technology in favor of its more advanced Gemini assistant. Gemini is presented as a more capable and conversational assistant, offering enhanced query handling and interaction.

Alexa as Alternative Voice Assistant

Google has indicated that Versa and Sense smartwatch owners can still utilize Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant as an alternative. However, users will need to manually enable Alexa within their device settings.

Steps to Enable Alexa on Fitbit Devices:

• From the Today tab in the Fitbit app, tap your profile picture, then your device image.

• Tap Voice Assistant, select Amazon Alexa, and then Sign in with Amazon.

• Tap Get Started.

• Create or log in to your Amazon account.

• Tap Close to return to the Voice Assistant tile.