If you own an Android phone, you’re probably familiar with the suite of Google apps that come preinstalled, like Gmail, YouTube, and Google Maps. Upcoming versions of Android may introduce another app directly from Google that could enhance your smartphone experience.
As reported by 9to5Google, the Oppo Find X8 has launched with Google’s Fitbit app already installed on the device, taking the place of Google Fit. This suggests that more Android devices might ship with Fitbit included in the future.
Since Google’s acquisition of Fitbit in 2021, every iteration of the Pixel Watch, including the Pixel Watch 3, has featured Fitbit as a built-in application. However, until now, the only smartphone known to include the Fitbit app out of the box is the Oppo Find X8.
At this moment, Android users can still download the Fitbit app directly from Google Play.
While the addition of another native Google app might seem unremarkable, especially given the expectation that Fitbit will replace Google Fit, it’s worth noting that not all users appreciate the abundance of preinstalled Google applications. Common staples include Google Search, Chrome, Gmail, Google Maps, YouTube, Google Photos, and YouTube Music. Many smartphone manufacturers also preload their own applications, leading to even more software being present right out of the box.
If Google decides to proceed with including Fitbit as a standard feature on all new Android devices, it could align with the anticipated launch of Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series, rumored for January. This would be a pivotal move in Google’s strategy to strengthen its ecosystem and enhance its competitive edge within the health and fitness sector. Conversely, if this feature doesn’t roll out immediately, it may debut alongside the upcoming Google Pixel 10 series, which is expected to be revealed by next summer or fall.
