Goodbye Fitbit Pay, hello Google Wallet: What you need to know
Wave goodbye to Fitbit Pay! As of July 29th, 2024, Google Wallet will be taking over contactless payments on your Fitbit – a move that should deliver more banks, wider acceptance, and a whole lot less fumbling for your actual wallet. At least, that’s the promise.
This change is just the latest sign of Google’s ongoing mission to integrate its services into the Fitbit world. It’s all part of the “Google-fication” we’ve witnessed since the acquisition. The company says, there might be a slight learning curve, but the potential benefits are worth a few extra taps for Fitbit users who love the convenience of contactless payments.
Understanding the advantages
The integration of Google Wallet into Fitbit wearables promises a few key advantages. Firstly, Google Wallet boasts a wider network of supported banks and credit card companies. This means users will likely have more options when linking their preferred payment cards for contactless use with their Fitbit devices. Secondly, Google Wallet’s broader acceptance at retailers and payment terminals increases the overall convenience and utility of contactless payments through Fitbit.
Important changeover details
Fitbit Pay will officially be discontinued on July 29th, 2024. The change will affect most markets, though Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Taiwan are expected to transition later in 2024. Google Wallet functionality is already rolling out to supported Fitbit devices (Charge series, Sense series, and Versa series with contactless payment capabilities).
How to make the transition
Switching to Google Wallet on your Fitbit is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
- Check Your Fitbit App: Open the Fitbit app and access your device settings. The presence of a “Google Wallet” tile indicates you’re already using it. If you still see a “Wallet” tile, you’re on Fitbit Pay.
- Tap “Update to Google Wallet”: If you’re on Fitbit Pay, there will be an option to update. Click it and sign into your Google account when prompted.
- Add Your Cards (Again): Existing cards from Fitbit Pay won’t automatically transfer. You’ll need to add your credit or debit cards to Google Wallet within the app.
Additional changes: The Google-fication of Fitbit
The shift from Fitbit Pay to Google Wallet isn’t the only change Fitbit users are seeing. The Fitbit online shop has been integrated into the Google Store in the past few days. Which makes senses – no point keeping two shops alive.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
The wider context of this change taps into a concern among Fitbit loyalists: the fear that the brand’s distinct identity will be subsumed by Google. The removal of features, questionable software updates, and limited new Fitbit hardware releases have fueled this worry. Let’s hope this latest transition proves beneficial, maintaining Fitbit’s core appeal while leveraging the advantages Google Wallet offers for convenient payments.
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