Google account migration timeline set for Fitbit smartwatches
Google is continuing to expand its influence over the Fitbit ecosystem. Last week, the company removed four features from the Fitbit app, with Adventure Races, Solo Adventures, Virtual Premium Challenges and open groups all discontinued, effective March 27. Now, 9to5Google reports that Google is laying the groundwork for moving away from Fitbit accounts.
As the image below shows, Google is promoting the option of moving 'Fitbit to your Google Account'. The company adds that migrating a Fitbit account provides greater security measures; no Fitbit health or wellness data will be for Google Ads, either. Presumably, the former refers to Google's multiple 2FA authentication methods. In comparison, Fitbit only offers 2FA through SMS.
For now, Fitbit to Google account migration remains optional for existing Fitbit users. By contrast, new Fitbit users will need to use a Google account to access Fitbit devices and services from this summer onwards. Existing Fitbit users will not be able to resist Google account migration indefinitely, though. Currently, Google has set a 2025 deadline for Fitbit users to voluntarily switch, with an implied forced switch after 2025 rolls around.