Upcoming Changes: Fitbit Features Phasing Out in Google Health App
As Google prepares to launch its new Health app next week, several existing Fitbit features will be discontinued or significantly altered. This transition aims to streamline user experience and integrate more advanced functionalities.
Sleep Tracking Adjustments
The Google Health app will not include the Sleep Profile and monthly animal representations previously available to Fitbit Premium users. Instead, Premium subscribers can consult the Google Health Coach for personalized insights into their sleep patterns. Additionally, Snore Detection features on devices like the Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 will be removed. The Estimated Oxygen Variation (EOV) metric is also being phased out, with SpO2 data serving as its replacement in the Health tab.
Fitness Metrics Overhaul
The Cardio Fitness Score will be rebranded as VO2 max. This metric will now be calculated during GPS-tracked runs and can incorporate data from third-party applications. Notably, the calculation will no longer consider demographic factors such as height and weight. Furthermore, the daily cardio goal will be replaced by a personalized weekly target, allowing users to adjust their exercise routines based on their schedules and physical condition.
Health and Wellness Feature Modifications
The existing Stress Score will be replaced by a Resilience metric, categorized as Optimal, Balanced, or Low. While stress check graphs will be removed, the functionality will remain accessible on devices like the Charge 5, Charge 6, and Sense. Minute-by-minute skin temperature data will no longer be available; users will instead have access to daily and weekly trends. Blood glucose tracking will be simplified, eliminating the ability to add symptoms or set reminders. Users can import data from blood glucose monitors via Health Connect or Apple Health, though connections to Lifescan devices will no longer be supported. Manual logging of glucose data remains an option. Additionally, setting calorie targets through Food Plans will be discontinued, but users can still establish personalized calorie and macronutrient targets in the Nutrition section of the Health tab. Premium users will also lose access to recipe features.
Social Features Reduction
Google Health will eliminate the badge system, including both new and previously earned badges. Instead, the Health Coach will celebrate user progress and achievements. Social profiles will now display the user’s Google Account name and profile picture. Upon first use, users will be prompted to approve the sharing of this information, along with their email address. The new profile will exclude details such as sex, height, weight, location, and friends list. Furthermore, direct messaging, Groups, and the Community Feed will be removed. Starting May 12, 2026, social features in the existing Fitbit app will be locked, preventing users from adding or removing friends and updating leaderboards. These changes are intended to prepare users for the transition to the Google Health app, where they can manage friends and participate in weekly leaderboards that now support steps and Cardio Load.
