Fitbit in 2026: Setup, and What's Changed Under Google
Last verified: August 2026
Fitbit changed a lot in 2026: Google now owns it, the old Fitbit app became the Google Health app, and you need a Google Account to sign in. Here's what that means and how to set yours up.
What Changed for Fitbit in 2026
Fitbit is now owned by Google, and in 2026 Google made two big changes. First, standalone Fitbit accounts were retired — after May 19, 2026, you must sign in with a Google Account. Second, the familiar Fitbit app was renamed and redesigned as the Google Health app, with tabs for Today, Fitness, Sleep, and Health, plus an AI-powered Health Coach.
If you've had a Fitbit for years, the practical upshot is: move your Fitbit account to a Google Account (Google walked users through this), and get used to the new Google Health app. Your bands and watches still work the same on your wrist.
Fitbit trackers and watches remain a solid, affordable choice for steps, heart rate, and sleep — the changes are mostly about the account and the app, not the hardware.
When to skip the DIY and just call: You're stuck migrating to a Google Account · The new Google Health app confuses you · You want a new Fitbit set up from scratch.
Common Questions
1 Do I have to switch to a Google Account?
- Yes — standalone Fitbit logins stopped working after May 19, 2026.
- You'll sign in (or create) a free Google Account, which is the same kind used for Gmail.
- If you already have a Gmail address, you can use that.
- Once migrated, your history and settings carry over.
2 Where did the Fitbit app go?
- It's now the Google Health app — same data, new name and look.
- Update or install "Google Health" from the App Store or Play Store.
- Sign in with your Google Account and your Fitbit will reconnect.
3 How do I set up a brand-new Fitbit?
- Charge the Fitbit and install the Google Health app.
- Open the app, sign in with a Google Account, and choose Set up a device.
- Follow the prompts to pair over Bluetooth and update the Fitbit's software.
- Set your goals and turn on the notifications you want.
4 How do I find my steps, sleep, and heart rate now?
- Open Google Health and use the tabs: Today for a snapshot, Fitness for activity, Sleep for last night, Health for heart and trends.
- You can rearrange the top dashboard to show what you care about.
- Tap any number to see more detail and history.
5 Is my old Fitbit going to keep working?
- Yes — existing Fitbit trackers and watches keep working with the Google Health app.
- The main thing you had to do was move to a Google Account before the deadline.
- If you missed it and got locked out, let me help you recover access.
Want a Real Person?
Sometimes the fix takes five minutes — and sometimes you'd rather just have someone come fix it. Either way, I'm a call away. Flat $99 first visit, 30-day follow-up included. No surprises.
This guide is yours, free.
No sign-up, no email, no catch — it's free the way it looks free. Print it, save it, or share it with family. And if you'd rather hand the job off, Bill's two choices are right above: a $99 flat in-home visit or $49 remote help, often same day.