Fitbit’s newest smartwatch – the Versa 2 (Image credit: Future)
Fitbit users in Europe face a setback as Google plans to eliminate all third-party apps and clock faces from devices within the European Economic Area, affecting the entire EU and countries like Iceland.
The announcement was made through an update on the Fitbit Help Center website, revealing that these changes will take effect in June 2024 without specifying a precise date.
A detailed list of impacted models is available to the public, including the Fitbit Sense 2, Versa 4, and Ionic. Users can continue to install third-party apps until the specified date, after which only first-party software from Google and Fitbit will be accessible.
The reasoning behind this decision is attributed to “new regulatory requirements” in Europe, likely associated with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), aiming to ensure fair and open digital markets by enhancing compatibility between first-party and third-party software.
While most tech corporations have complied with the DMA, Google’s move with Fitbit seems out of sync, possibly highlighting challenges with third-party apps under the new regulations.
New rules
The DMA was introduced to address the dominance of tech giants in the industry and promote a more level playing field. However, Fitbit’s situation stands out amid overall compliance, prompting speculation about Google’s intentions towards Fitbit and potential implications for the brand’s future.
It raises questions as to why Fitbit is being singled out for these changes, especially as other hardware like the Pixel Watch will continue to support third-party apps in the EU without similar alterations, suggesting a specific focus on Fitbit’s ecosystem.
While the rationale behind these decisions remains speculative, the impact on Fitbit users in the EU is imminent. For the latest updates on this developing situation, stay tuned.
For more tech-related news, reviews, and insights, explore TechRadar’s comprehensive coverage.
Analysis: It’s the same ol’ story
Amid these changes, concerns about the future of Fitbit under Google’s ownership persist, with ongoing shifts in features and access raising apprehensions about the brand’s identity and integrity.
While the removal of third-party apps may be perceived as a security measure, inconsistencies in Google’s approach, particularly regarding other hardware like the Pixel Watch, raise doubts about the true motivations behind these decisions.
As the tech landscape evolves, the implications for Fitbit and its users remain uncertain, prompting the need for vigilance and proactive engagement with emerging developments.
Stay informed with the latest trends and updates in the tech world by following TechRadar’s in-depth analysis and reporting.
