How to Download the Fitbit App on Desktop?Updated 2 months ago
The world of fitness has been increasingly intertwined with technology, and one of the most popular brands in the fitness-tracking industry is Fitbit. With Fitbit devices, users can track various health metrics such as steps, heart rate, sleep patterns, and workouts. To sync your data and monitor your progress, you can use the Fitbit app, which is available on a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets.
However, there is also a way to track your fitness journey using your desktop computer. While the Fitbit app is not as widely available for desktops as it is for mobile devices, it is still possible to download and use it on your computer. This guide will explain how you can download and use the Fitbit app on your desktop, as well as how to synchronize your Fitbit device with the desktop application for seamless data tracking.
Why Download Fitbit App on Desktop?
Before we delve into the steps to download and install the Fitbit app on your desktop, let’s explore why you might want to use the desktop version of the app in the first place.
Larger Display for Easier Tracking: One of the primary advantages of using Fitbit on a desktop computer is the larger screen size. This allows you to view your data in greater detail, which can be especially helpful when analyzing trends, reviewing your workout history, and understanding long-term health data. It’s easier to spot patterns when using the larger interface on a desktop.
Better for Long-Term Tracking: If you prefer to dive deep into your health and fitness metrics over a longer period, the desktop version of Fitbit may be more convenient. The larger display allows for better visualizations of your data, such as graphs and charts, which are easier to analyze on a bigger screen.
Seamless Integration with Other Devices: Many people use their desktop computers for more than just fitness tracking. If you’re using multiple devices to sync data, using a desktop app can streamline the process of managing multiple data sources and ensure all information from your Fitbit device is consolidated in one place.
More Detailed Insights: While the mobile app is great for on-the-go tracking, the desktop app provides a broader view of your data, making it easier to spot trends and patterns. For those who want to track their progress with more detailed insights, the desktop version is a great option.
Syncing Devices: If you want to sync your Fitbit device with a larger computer screen, you can easily do so using the Fitbit desktop app. This makes it easier to access your Fitbit data, especially if you're at home or work and prefer to see your statistics on your computer rather than pulling out your phone.
System Requirements for Fitbit Desktop App
Before you can start downloading the Fitbit app on your desktop, it is essential to ensure that your computer meets certain system requirements. These requirements ensure that the app works smoothly and efficiently.
Operating System: The Fitbit desktop app is available for Windows and Mac users. If you are using Windows, make sure that you are running Windows 8 or higher. For Mac users, macOS Sierra or higher is recommended.
Internet Connection: An active internet connection is required for downloading the Fitbit app and syncing data from your Fitbit device.
Bluetooth: Fitbit devices generally sync through Bluetooth. Therefore, your desktop needs to have Bluetooth capability to sync your Fitbit tracker wirelessly. If your desktop doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you can purchase a Bluetooth USB dongle.
Storage Space: The app does not require a large amount of storage, but make sure that you have sufficient space on your hard drive to install and run the app.
Steps to Download Fitbit App on Desktop
For Windows Users:
The Fitbit app for Windows computers can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. Here's a step-by-step guide to installing the Fitbit app on your Windows desktop:
Step 1: Open Microsoft Store
To begin the installation process on a Windows computer, you’ll need to open the Microsoft Store, which is the default app store on Windows. You can do this by following these steps:
- Click on the Start Menu (Windows icon) located in the lower-left corner of the screen.
- Type Microsoft Store into the search bar and click on the app when it appears in the search results.
Step 2: Search for Fitbit App
Once the Microsoft Store is open, you can search for the Fitbit app by typing Fitbit into the search bar at the top-right corner of the screen. The store will show you the available Fitbit app and related apps for your device.
Step 3: Install the Fitbit App
When you see the Fitbit app in the search results, click on it to open the app’s page in the store. On the app’s page, click on the Install button. The app will then start downloading, and you’ll see a progress bar showing the download status.
Step 4: Open the Fitbit App
Once the download is complete, the Install button will change to Launch. Click on Launch to open the app. Alternatively, you can open the app at any time by searching for Fitbit in the Start Menu and selecting the app from the results.
Step 5: Set Up Your Account
When you launch the Fitbit app for the first time, it will prompt you to log into your Fitbit account. If you already have a Fitbit account, simply enter your login credentials (email and password). If you do not have an account, you will be prompted to create one by providing your email address, creating a password, and entering some basic personal information.
Step 6: Sync Your Fitbit Device
Once you’re logged in, the app will guide you through the process of syncing your Fitbit device. You will need to connect your Fitbit tracker via Bluetooth to your computer, so make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your desktop. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the syncing process.
For Mac Users:
The process for downloading and installing the Fitbit app on a Mac computer is similar to the process for Windows users, with some slight differences due to macOS.
Step 1: Open Mac App Store
First, you will need to open the Mac App Store. To do this:
- Click on the Apple Menu in the upper-left corner of the screen.
- Select App Store from the drop-down menu. The App Store window will appear.
Step 2: Search for Fitbit App
In the App Store, use the search bar in the top-left corner to search for Fitbit. When the results appear, locate the Fitbit app.
Step 3: Install the Fitbit App
Click on the Get button next to the Fitbit app listing. You may need to sign in with your Apple ID to download the app if prompted. The Fitbit app will then begin to download and install on your Mac.
Step 4: Open the Fitbit App
Once the installation is complete, the Open button will appear. Click on it to launch the Fitbit app. Alternatively, you can find the Fitbit app in your Applications folder or use Spotlight Search to locate it.
Step 5: Log into Your Fitbit Account
When the Fitbit app launches, you will be asked to sign in to your Fitbit account. Enter your credentials or create a new account if you don’t have one yet.
Step 6: Sync Your Fitbit Device
After logging in, the app will prompt you to connect your Fitbit device. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your Mac and follow the on-screen instructions to sync your device. If you are having trouble syncing, try restarting both your computer and your Fitbit device.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While installing the Fitbit app on your desktop is a relatively simple process, you might run into some issues along the way. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
App Not Available in App Store: If you cannot find the Fitbit app in the Microsoft Store or Mac App Store, ensure that your operating system is up-to-date. For Windows, check that your device is running Windows 8 or higher. For Mac, make sure your device is running macOS Sierra or a newer version.
Syncing Issues: If your Fitbit device isn’t syncing properly with your desktop, check that Bluetooth is enabled and working. You may also want to try unpairing and then re-pairing the device. Additionally, ensure that your Fitbit device is nearby when syncing.
App Not Opening: If the Fitbit app is not launching after installation, try restarting your computer. If that doesn't work, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
Bluetooth Issues: If you do not have built-in Bluetooth on your desktop, you may need to purchase a Bluetooth adapter (dongle). Ensure that your Bluetooth drivers are up to date.
Alternative Method: Fitbit Web Dashboard
If you are unable to download the Fitbit app to your desktop or if you prefer not to use the app, you can always use the Fitbit Web Dashboard. The web dashboard allows you to access your Fitbit data directly through any web browser, making it an excellent alternative to using the desktop app. Simply go to the Fitbit website, log into your account, and view your fitness stats, track your progress, and set goals through the web interface.
Conclusion
Downloading and using the Fitbit app on your desktop is a convenient way to monitor your fitness progress and sync your data from your Fitbit device. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily install the app on both Windows and Mac computers. Whether you are using the desktop app for detailed data analysis or syncing your Fitbit device, this method provides an excellent way to enhance your fitness journey.