Quick Answer: Yes, it does.
Fitbits are among the most advanced smart timepieces you can find on the market today. They are so sophisticated that most people doubt if they can work without the Internet. So, does Fitbit work without the Internet?
Yes; Fitbits can work beautifully even without the internet. Read on for answers to commonly asked questions on the subject and to learn how Fitbit works without the internet.
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How Does Fitbit Work Without the Internet?
Here’s a fun fact for you. From 2010 Fitbit has managed to sell more than 127 million devices across the globe, according to Statista. What’s more, in 2021 it had about 111 million users. Amazing, right?
Well, Fitbits takes advantage of Bluetooth connectivity to sync your activity data with the app. This option eliminates the need for internet connectivity. Using Bluetooth, you can pair Fitbit with your Smartphone and access messages and call notifications.
The Fitbit Alta HR is an excellent example of a Fitbit that can work without the Internet. Fitbit Alta HR is a beautifully-designed smartwatch that shows you reliable statistics such as Heart Rate and step count. The unit also prides itself on the reliable battery that supports its organized display and other features.
Can You Use a Fitbit Without a Phone or Computer?
Yes, you can. According to Fitbit, most of their units go up to 7 days without the need to sync with any device. This means that Fitbit units can be used without a Smartphone or a computer. Does a Fitbit need a phone to work? No! Most Fitbits units are designed to track your activity without being connected to your phone.
Can I Use My Fitbit Without Bluetooth?
Short answer – yes and no. See, Fitbits rely on Bluetooth to sync all your activity data to the app on your phone or computer. Without that constant connection, your Fitbit can’t send your stats to be tracked.
But even without Bluetooth, you can still use a Fitbit to view your real-time activity info throughout the day – like steps taken, heart rate, calories burned, etc. The data is all stored on the tracker itself. You just miss out on having it recorded long term in the app without the connection.
My tip? Turn Bluetooth off whenever you don’t need to sync for a while. Just remember to turn it back on a couple times a day to send that fitness data for safekeeping! Leaving it off 24/7 means you’ll lose your tracking.
So go ahead – use your Fitbit sans Bluetooth here and there. Just sync it up again when you can to keep your stats intact. A little disconnect never hurt anyone!
How Do I Sync My Fitbit Without Internet?
With an internet connection, the ‘all-day sync option’ automatically syncs as the data is recorded on the tracker. This is not to say that you cannot sync your Fitbit unit without the Internet.
To sync your Fitbit unit to the Fitbit app without the internet, you will use your phone’s Bluetooth feature. To do this, you will open the Fitbit app Dashboard and click on the Fitbit Server. Once you click the server, you will see a “Syncing requires Bluetooth LE and Internet connection.”
You will then turn on Bluetooth and do tap on the ‘Sync now’ button for an already paired tracker. It is important to note that the functioning of the tracker doesn’t get affected by turning off the phone’s Bluetooth option and watching as the unit syncs.
READ ALSO: The Best Fitbit in the Market Right Now.
Does Fitbit Need Data?
Does Fitbit use a cellular data plan? It is advisable to use a mobile data plan on Fitbit. This is because there are small amounts of data that are transferred with each sync. During the sync process, the tracker and the phone communicate via Bluetooth to synchronize the data between the two, and then the phone’s data connection is used to upload the data to the Fitbit server.
This process uses up a small amount of data. Although the data usage is very low, it is advisable to use a cellular data plan on your Fitbit. Wi-Fi is a good alternative to a cellular data plan.
We hope we have addressed most of your concerns on how Fitbit works without the internet. Feel free to contact us if you have a question that has not been covered in this guide. Additionally, don’t hesitate to consult us in case you encounter a Fitbit connectivity issue (Internet or Bluetooth).
Read Also: Does Ring Floodlight Work Without Internet?
Common Questions
Can I use my Fitbit without having internet access?
Yes, you can use a Fitbit without being connected to the internet. The tracker itself will still record and display your activity like steps, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. However, you will not be able to sync your data to the Fitbit app without internet.
What functions of my Fitbit will work offline?
When not connected to the internet, your Fitbit will still track your daily stats, exercise, and sleep. You can view your real-time heart rate, steps, floors climbed, and other metrics on the Fitbit’s screen. Basic watch functions like alarms and timers also work.
What capabilities of my Fitbit require an internet connection?
Syncing your activity data to the Fitbit app requires internet access through a WiFi or mobile data connection. Challenges, social features, badges, customized watch faces, software updates, and use of voice assistants also need internet connectivity.
Can I manually record activity while offline?
Yes, Fitbits allow you to manually log activities like runs and bike rides even without internet access. The data gets stored and will sync to your account when you reconnect online later.
Will my Fitbit automatically sync when back online?
Once you are within range of a previously connected WiFi or paired to your phone, your Fitbit will automatically sync all accumulated activity data when internet access is restored. No manual syncing is required.
How long can my Fitbit store data offline?
Most Fitbit devices can store up to 7 days of detailed motion data, like minute-by-minute steps and heart rate. Summary data, including daily totals and sleep records, can be stored offline for up to 30 days before the tracker’s memory fills up.
Does my Fitbit need internet for GPS tracking?
If your Fitbit has built-in GPS like the Ionic and Sense, it can still record pace, distance, and routes offline. But you’ll need to connect to the internet to view your route map in the app.
