Google hits pause on Fitbit smartwatches in favor of Pixel Watch

Google has confirmed that it does not plan to launch any new smartwatches under the Fitbit brand. This move will not surprise some Fitbit customers, who have noted a recent decline in the quality of the user experience. For example, the web dashboard has been retired, and an app redesign was not well received earlier this year.

In an interview with Engadget, Sandeep Waraich, Product Management Director for Google Pixel Watch and Fitbit Trackers, stated that Google was focusing on the Pixel Watch as far as smartwatches were concerned, saying that "Pixel Watches are our next iteration of smartwatch for Fitbit." By way of an explanation for the move, the Google representative said that its customers wanted "something discreet" and preferred a minimal feature set and longer battery life.

The interview suggested that Google would continue to develop wearables under the Fitbit brand, though these would be the simpler tracker devices, like the Inspire 3 model. It was also indicated that the Sense 2 and Versa 4 would still be available to purchase. However, it remains to be seen whether or when these devices, or the more recently launched Fitbit Ace LTE for kids, will be discontinued and if they will continue to receive updates.