Fitbit will lose files, music transfers from computers in October

Fitbit is removing the ability to sync files between a desktop computer and its smartwatches.

9to5Google References(Opens in a new window) that Fitbit has updated two support articles—one Details(Opens in a new window) the Fitbit installation process and another explains(Opens in a new window) how to listen to music on the company’s devices—to say it plans to shut down the Fitbit Connect app for Windows and macOS later this year.

Fitbit says in the first article that it’s “removing the option to sync your Fitbit device with the Fitbit Connect app on your computer,” and in the second it says that it’s “removing the option to transfer playlists to your Fitbit watch via your computer.” Both changes have scheduled for October 13.

The company’s suggested solution for people who rely on Fitbit Connect to set up their devices is to “download and use the Fitbit app on your phone to sync your device.” Those who used it primarily for music, meanwhile, are limited to syncing music from Deezer and Pandora.

It’s a shame that Fitbit appears to be dropping support for computers, partly because there’s no guarantee its customers will want to install a Google-owned fitness tracker on their phones, and partly because music syncing is now limited to a pair ran music services.

Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.