On Thursday, 14 January, finally, Google closed the acquisition of Fitbit. Though the $2.1 billion deal was announced in November 2019, it takes over one year to be finalized due to the authorities’ approval process of security regulatory. Let’s look at the detailed information below.
Google Closed Acquisition of Fitbit: Detailed Overview On this News
After the four month investigation of the European Commission, last month in December, it showed green cards to Google, assuring them a secure privacy process. So, at last, Google completed purchasing Fitbit.
The regulatory authorities were concerned about whether Google used its users’ health data that Fitbit keeps stored for the years. But Google promised not to use these data for ad creating purposes.
Rick Osterloh’s Comment About the Deal
In a blog of Google, Google’s senior vice president of the Devices and Services department Rick Osterloh reiterates this promise. He said, ” This deal has always been about devices, not data, and we’ve been clear since the beginning that we will protect Fitbit users’ privacy.”
Afterward, Osterloh also committed that Google will allow access to devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers to Android API to connect with Android phones.
Along with that, Google also promised Fitbit users still use the Fitbit account for choosing to get third party services to enable using smartwatches and fitness trackers.
What did Fitbit’s CEO James Park comment on this Deal?
Fitbit’s CEO, James Park, also confirmed the acquisition, saying that Fitbit is now officially part of Google. He is hopeful to help users with more inspiration and motivation for a better healthy life along with Google. He says, ” With access to Google’s incredible resources, knowledge and global platform, the possibilities are truly limitless.”
On the other hand, Park also reassures the users not to worry that their favorite device will change the features due to acquisition. He said, “many of the things you know and love about Fitbit will remain the same.” But the users will be glad to know that the acquisition creates many opportunities to produce better products for good health and wellness.
Summary
Fitbit smartwatches and fitness trackers are much popular wearable devices among health-conscious people. And as finally Google closed acquisition of Fitbit, we hope to see a new updated and more advanced featured Fitbit. So wait till to get the new Fitbit devices as your best fitness friend.
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