Fitbit will no longer support its app on iPhones without iOS 15 or later. Starting March 25, phones running iOS 14 or lower – typically older than the iPhone 6 – will no longer work with the Fitbit app after updating to version 3.77 or later.
If you have one of best iPhoneswhich are usually newer versions and you are using an older operating system, you may need to update your device to ensure you can continue using the Fitbit app. The the best Fitbits. and other devices like them typically require the latest versions of their companion app to function effectively, and these apps are regularly updated to add new features, fix bugs, and so on.
Unfortunately, this results in users of older iPhones – a small number of users as we imagine, but some nonetheless – unable to use Fitbit properly. Fitbit warned users via an in-app notification and provided an option not to update to version 3.77. This isn’t a permanent solution, but it will at least give you more time with the device until you upgrade your phone to something that Fitbit can effectively support.
This is not a new issue or a Fitbit exclusive issue. As smart technology relies on the latest software to successfully integrate with other devices, as this software becomes old and obsolete, some devices do too. However, Fitbit has already gone hot this week as it finally turned off social features such as Open groups and challengesas it warned users a few weeks ago.
The decision sent many users into a fury, as Fitbit has long had a dedicated community of users from around the world who participate in daily and weekly challenge and adventure programs.
Analysis: Unfortunately, this is inevitable
If you have a newer iPhone with iOS 15 or 16, all you need to do is update iOS to make sure you can take full advantage of the Fitbit app. But for users with an older iPhone, buying a new phone is a bit more of an investment.
Whether it’s a computer, smartwatch or phone, it’s a shame we can’t keep a piece of tech we like forever – but if you’re buying one of the best iPhones for the sake of a cheap fitness tracker, it’s worth noting that Fitbit as a whole is currently undergoing a series of changes and no one knows what the future holds for this once great fitness tracker.
Our best guess is that the only “future proof” Fitbit is Google Pixel Watch, which uses FItbit’s fitness and sleep tracking features with the excellent Google Wear OS operating system. If you’re looking for a new tracker and can’t wait to own an iPhone, there’s really only one right answer: check out our guide to best apple watch models.