Google buys Fitbit for $2.1bn in one of 2019’s most important tech deals

It’s official. Regardless of how you feel about it, Google announced on Friday that it will acquire fitness hardware and software company Fitbit.

The confirmation came via a blog post by Rich Osterloh, Google’s devices and services SVP, after rumours hinted that talks were taking place between the two firms earlier this week.

According to said post, Fitbit will allow Google to “introduce Made by Google wearable devices into the market”.

Google needs Fitbit to make ‘Made by Google’ products

Google has yet to release a smartwatch with its name on it, but has, nonetheless, developed and maintains its Wear OS smartwatch OS.

Osterloh calls Fitbit a “true pioneer in the industry” and lauded the company for creating “engaging products, experiences and a vibrant community of users”.

He doesn’t mention just how the San Francisco-based health software and hardware firm will integrate into Google’s services or fall under its umbrella, but states the two companies will be working “closely” together.

“By working closely with Fitbit’s team of experts, and bringing together the best AI, software and hardware, we can help spur innovation in wearables and build products to benefit even more people around the world,” Osterloh explains.

What this means for Google and Fitbit

The deal means Google receives Fitbit’s wealth of health-tracking and hardware savvy. Fitbit, meanwhile, gets a wealth of capital from Google.

What this means for your Fitbit data

The blog post spends a large paragraph explaining how Google will not use your Fitbit information.

“Similar to our other products, with wearables, we will be transparent about the data we collect and why. We will never sell personal information to anyone,” he explained.

“Fitbit health and wellness data will not be used for Google ads. And we will give Fitbit users the choice to review, move, or delete their data.”

Either way, Google’s investing a slew of cash into the company. TechCrunch notes the firm is valued at around $2.1-billion.

Feature image: The Fitbit Versa 2, by Andy Walker/Memeburn