Issues Persist for Months, Affecting Data Accuracy and Syncing Capabilities
Fitbit users have voiced significant frustrations with persistent bugs in the company’s iOS and Android applications, which have been affecting data syncing and accuracy since at least April. Despite ongoing efforts by Fitbit, a subsidiary of Google, to resolve these issues, a clear timeline for fixes has yet to be communicated.
On September 3, Fitbit updated its Status Dashboard to acknowledge a service disruption linked to the web API, informing users that “some may notice data discrepancies or syncing issues between third-party apps and Fitbit.” This update coincided with the release of version 4.24 of the mobile apps, though it remains unclear if this version addresses the reported problems.
Users across various Fitbit devices have turned to the company’s online support forums to share their experiences. Threads reveal a range of complaints, including the app deleting steps, inaccurately tracking distances, and displaying erroneous data. One user highlighted their app consistently showing similar step counts over several days, raising concerns about reliability.
In response to inquiries about these ongoing issues, a Google spokesperson acknowledged the complaints, stating, “We’re aware of the issue and are working hard to get it resolved.”
Lengthy Troubles
Complaints have lingered for months. For instance, a discussion thread initiated on April 10 revealed users grappling with inaccurate step counts, prompting a Fitbit moderator to confirm on September 8 that the company is actively pursuing a solution. “We haven’t received any time frame yet for how long our team still needs to solve this,” said the moderator, identified as JuanFitbit.
Another thread from July detailed issues faced by a Charge 5 user, whose iOS device was tracking steps but failing to record distances. As of September 18, the same moderator reiterated the urgency of addressing this problem.
The user feedback reflects mounting frustration. “This is insanely annoying,” commented a forum user known as MonkeyPants. “The app has constant syncing issues, especially with the One.”
Criticism of Google’s Changes
Since Google’s acquisition of Fitbit in 2021, users have noted significant changes to the platform, including the removal of the online dashboard and social features, as well as the ability to sync devices with computers. Long-time Fitbit users have expressed concerns that Google may be prioritizing its Pixel Watch line over Fitbit support, despite Google’s assurances that it will continue to produce Fitbit products.
In one forum post, a user named DustyStone described issues with the app’s dashboard losing steps and failing to sync on both older and newer devices. Another user, MBWaldo, echoed this sentiment, expressing doubts about the company’s commitment to resolving app problems and lamenting the lack of an online dashboard.
“Very frustrating!!!!” MBWaldo wrote. “I have been experiencing this for several days now. I have deleted the app and reinstalled it, unpaired and re-paired my One, and looked for updates—nothing. And, of course, the dashboard is no longer available at fitbit.com.”
Signs of Improvement
Despite the ongoing challenges, some users have noted that certain issues appear to have been resolved, such as problems with the “Exercise days” tiles and inaccuracies in calorie tracking.
However, this situation underscores the broader implications of software reliability on hardware usability. Just as recent issues with the Sonos app reminded consumers of the importance of seamless software updates, Fitbit faces scrutiny over how its app’s problems could tarnish the brand’s reputation in the wearables market.
While improvements are reportedly underway, for many users, the damage may have already been done.
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