Fitbit warns users to update app or risk losing features

Fitbit recently rolled out a fresh update v4.23 for both iOS and Android, and they’re giving you until September 30, 2024, to hop on board. Miss that deadline, and your app might start throwing tantrums — think performance issues, laggy data, or worse, a very frustrated you.

So, what’s the deal? Fitbit’s latest update affects those running app versions 3.00 to 4.21. They’ve made it clear that updating is not just a suggestion; it’s pretty much mandatory if you want to keep things running smoothly. Just head over to your respective app store, give that update button a tap, and you’re good to go. Simple, right? Well, not so fast.

Now, I know what you’re thinking — updates are supposed to make things better, right? Unfortunately, not everyone is thrilled about this one. Some long-time Fitbit users are sounding off in the forums, and the reviews are, let’s just say, mixed.

A few users are upset that some of the features they loved, like editing activities, have vanished into the update abyss. One user, clearly passionate about their daily grind, reported that their precious active minutes got slashed after updating, turning what should have been a triumphant day into a baffling disappointment. Ouch.

Another frustrated swimmer lamented that they can no longer adjust the distance of their swims — an essential feature if you’re training in non-standard-length pools or just kicking it in the water. And then there’s the lingering question: what happens if you’re still rocking Android 9 now that the new app’s minimum requirement is Android 10? It’s unclear, but let’s just say, updating might be a tricky endeavor.

If you’re someone who lives by the numbers, seeing your hard-earned activity points get downgraded after an update is bound to sting. Users are calling for Fitbit (and Google, since they’re in this together) to bring back the features they loved, or at the very least, offer some explanation for the changes.

So, here’s the bottom line: before the clock strikes midnight on September 30, make sure your Fitbit app is up to date. And hey, if you do find something amiss after updating, you’re definitely not alone — there’s a whole chorus of users who share your pain. Let’s hope the next update is more of an upgrade than a downgrade.