In August 2025, Google unveiled a significant overhaul of the Fitbit app, introducing a suite of enhancements aimed at enriching user experience. This redesign incorporated Material 3 Expressive elements, a dark theme, and a Gemini-powered personal health coach. However, despite these advancements, certain features were notably absent, sparking discussions within the Fitbit community.
Introduction of Material 3 Expressive and Dark Theme
The updated Fitbit app embraced Material 3 Expressive design principles, offering a more intuitive and visually appealing interface. A long-requested dark theme was also introduced, providing users with a comfortable viewing option, especially in low-light environments. The app’s navigation was restructured into four primary tabs: Today, Fitness, Sleep, and Health, facilitating easier access to various health metrics. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/08/20/fitbit-app-coach-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
Gemini-Powered Personal Health Coach
A standout feature of the redesign was the integration of a personal health coach powered by Google’s Gemini AI. This coach functions as a fitness trainer, sleep advisor, and overall wellness guide. Users can set personalized goals, receive tailored workout suggestions, and obtain insights into their sleep patterns. The coach adapts to real-time data, adjusting recommendations based on daily activity levels and other health metrics. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/08/20/fitbit-app-coach-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
Notable Omissions: Dark Theme and Tablet UI
Despite the introduction of several new features, the absence of a dark theme and a dedicated tablet user interface (UI) was conspicuous. Users had anticipated these additions to enhance usability across different devices. The lack of a dark theme was particularly surprising, given its prevalence in modern app designs. Additionally, the app did not offer a tablet-optimized UI, resulting in letterboxing on larger screens. This omission was unexpected, especially considering the growing popularity of tablets and foldable devices. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2023/08/28/fitbit-redesign-dark-theme/?utm_source=openai))
Removal of Challenges and Open Groups
In March 2023, Fitbit discontinued support for Challenges & Adventures and open groups. These features had allowed users to engage in social activities, compete with friends, and participate in public forums. The removal was part of an effort to streamline the app and integrate more closely with Google’s ecosystem. However, this decision was met with disappointment from long-time users who valued the community aspects of these features. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2023/03/27/fitbit-challenges-groups-removed/?utm_source=openai))
Transition to Mobile App and Closure of Web Dashboard
In July 2024, Fitbit announced the closure of its web dashboard, directing users to the mobile app for all interactions. This move aimed to consolidate resources and focus on enhancing the mobile experience. While the mobile app offered a robust platform, some users missed the convenience and comprehensive view provided by the web dashboard. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2024/06/11/fitbit-web-dashboard/?utm_source=openai))
Redesigns of Health Metrics and Water Logging Interfaces
The app’s Health Metrics and Water Logging interfaces underwent significant redesigns to improve user experience. The Health Metrics page transitioned from a web-based layout to a native interface, offering a more seamless experience. Similarly, the Water Logging feature was updated with a modern design, although some users noted the removal of the Quick Add For Today option, which added an extra step to the logging process. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/27/fitbit-health-metrics-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
Introduction of Sleep Lab and Weight Stats Redesign
In November 2024, Fitbit introduced the Sleep Lab, an experimental feature utilizing large language models to analyze sleep patterns and provide personalized insights. This feature encouraged users to maintain a daily sleep journal, offering tailored suggestions for improving sleep quality. Additionally, the Weight Stats page received a redesign, aligning it with other modernized interfaces within the app. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2024/11/13/fitbit-weight-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
Adaptation for Foldable and Tablet Devices
Recognizing the growing use of foldable and tablet devices, Fitbit updated its app to offer a more optimized layout for larger screens. The redesign included a dual-column layout and other adjustments to enhance usability on these devices. This update was particularly beneficial for users of foldable phones and tablets, providing a more efficient and visually appealing interface. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2024/11/19/fitbit-foldable-tablet-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
Conclusion
The Fitbit app’s redesign introduced several enhancements aimed at improving user experience, including a dark theme, AI-powered coaching, and optimized layouts for various devices. However, the absence of certain features, such as a dedicated tablet UI and the removal of community-focused elements, highlighted areas where user expectations were not fully met. As Fitbit continues to evolve, balancing innovation with user feedback will be crucial in maintaining its position in the competitive health and fitness app market.
