Google Clarifies that it’s NOT Discontinuing Fitbit Smartwatches
Just recently, there were rumors that Google will be focusing full-time on its Pixel Watch wearables, and will move away from its Fitbit smartwatches such as the Sense and Versa series. The initial report was backed by a statement from Sandeep Waraich, who stated that the Google Pixel Watch will be designated as the main smartwatch in their wearables portfolio.
Following mixed reception from Fitbit users, it seems that Google now wants to further clarify its stance regarding the issue. In a new statement from the company to Ars Technica, Google says that the original story was incorrect:
We are very committed to Fitbit, and even more importantly to the customers that use and depend on those products and technology. It’s also worth noting that many of the health and fitness features we launched in Pixel Watch 3 were because of Fitbit’s innovation and ground-breaking fitness advancements. In addition, we just launched Fitbit Ace LTE, [a smartwatch for kids released on June 5], and you’ll continue to see new products and innovation from Fitbit.
While the company has not announced any upcoming Versa or Sense models, it further stated that google has not discontinued the lines. With that being said however, fears of the Fitbit brand disappearing under Google’s management aren’t exactly unfounded – for example, the Sense 2 and Versa 4 launched with missing features such as third-party app downloads, and even Google Assistant.
For now at least, Fitbit fans can rest assured that the company isn’t pulling a “Google graveyard” anytime soon.
Source: Ars Technica