Fitbit's Sleep Tracking: Removed Or Just A Rumor?

Fitbit's sleep-tracking feature has been a popular tool for users to monitor their sleep patterns and quality. However, recent updates to the Fitbit app have led to concerns and complaints from users about changes to the sleep-tracking functionality. Users have reported issues with accessing sleep data, a less user-friendly interface, and the removal of certain features such as the Sleep Timeline Benchmark and the ability to compare sleep data to averages. While Fitbit has provided some troubleshooting steps and assurances that sleep benchmarks are available to all members, the changes have left many users disappointed and considering alternative devices for sleep tracking.

Fitbit sleep tracking issues

Fitbit users have reported several issues with the sleep-tracking feature. One common problem is the disappearance of the sleep-tracking tile, which can be resolved by checking the device settings and adding the sleep metric back to the dashboard. Users have also reported issues with the accuracy of sleep data, including the inability to distinguish between nap and sleep durations accurately.

In April 2024, Fitbit made changes to the sleep-tracking display information, which received negative feedback from users. They complained about the removal of comprehensive graphs and the difficulty in accessing sleep data. Users also expressed frustration over the lack of information on sleep depth and the absence of sleep percentages, which were moved to the premium version.

Some users have reported issues with editing sleep logs, as the app sometimes fails to pick up when they fell asleep or woke up. The update also removed the ability to check the time or duration of specific wake periods, impacting the overall user experience.

Another issue is the change in the sleep data display, with users describing the new arrangement as "ugly" and "difficult to read." The previous version provided an easy-to-understand graphical representation of sleep data, including sleep types and oxygen variation. The new update replaced this with a bar showing total time asleep, which users found less informative.

Fitbit has also been criticized for removing the Sleep Timeline Benchmark in the 4.15 update, impacting users who relied on the feature for sleep monitoring. While customer service acknowledged the issue, the company has not reverted the changes or provided an alternative solution.

Fitbit sleep tracking data changes

Fitbit has made changes to its sleep tracking data, and these changes have been met with a mixed response from users. Some people have noticed that the sleep tracking tile has disappeared from their Fitbit app, while others have observed that the sleep information they used to access has changed or is no longer available.

It appears that the Sleep Timeline Benchmark was removed in the 4.15 update, which has frustrated some users who purchased the Fitbit and premium subscription specifically for sleep monitoring. However, Fitbit has clarified that the Sleep Benchmarks are available for all members, regardless of whether they have a premium subscription or not. The company is currently investigating issues affecting the tab and has encouraged users to keep an eye on the thread for updates.

Some users have expressed disappointment with the changes to the sleep tracking screen and data display, describing the new arrangement as "ugly" and difficult to read. They prefer the previous version, which they found more user-friendly, comprehensive, and easier to understand. The old graphics allowed them to compare their sleep to averages and view types of sleep, which is no longer possible with the same ease.

Additionally, users have noticed that they can no longer access specific information about their sleep patterns, such as the depth of sleep, awake/restless times, and sleep percentages. These details were valuable for those with sleep disorders or sleep apnea, as they could provide this data to their medical providers. The changes have made it more cumbersome to access historical sleep data, now requiring multiple clicks to view past months and years of sleep information.

Despite the negative feedback, it's important to note that Fitbit continues to offer sleep tracking features. Users can still track their sleep patterns, including time spent awake, restless, and asleep. For devices that track sleep stages, users can edit and adjust sleep sessions in the Fitbit app. To accurately track sleep, Fitbit recommends wearing the device snugly on the wrist, positioned 2-3 finger widths above the wrist bone.

Fitbit sleep tracking display changes

Fitbit has made changes to its sleep tracking display, and the updates have received mixed responses from users. Some people have expressed disappointment and frustration with the changes, while others have provided suggestions for improving the sleep tracking experience.

One of the main concerns raised by users is the removal of the Sleep Timeline Benchmark in the 4.15 update. This feature allowed users to compare their sleep data against a benchmark and gain insights into their sleep patterns. The removal of this benchmark has left some users feeling disappointed, as they relied on this information to monitor their sleep quality.

Additionally, some users have reported issues with the new sleep tracking display, finding it cumbersome and difficult to navigate. They have expressed a preference for the previous version, which provided a quick and comprehensive overview of their sleep data. The new display may require more clicks and scrolling to access the same information, impacting the user experience.

Another change that has impacted users is the removal of the sleep percentage from the main display. This metric was previously available to all users but now appears to be exclusive to those with a Premium subscription. Users who rely on this information for medical reasons or sleep monitoring are particularly affected by this change.

It's important to note that Fitbit has provided some workarounds and suggestions to address these concerns. For users who have switched to the new dashboard, they can access the "`Discover`" tab and then click on "Health & Fitness Stats" to add the sleep metric back to their dashboard. For those using the old dashboard with "tiles", there are separate instructions provided by Fitbit to restore the sleep tracking tile.

While some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the changes, others have adapted to the new display. Some have discovered that scrolling down from the big graph reveals additional information, including sleep duration and awake/restless times. It's worth noting that Fitbit continues to offer sleep tracking features, and users can still access their sleep data, albeit through a different interface.

Fitbit sleep tracking: premium vs free

Sleep tracking is a popular feature of Fitbit devices, with many users relying on it to monitor their sleep. However, some users have expressed disappointment with recent changes to the sleep tracking feature, particularly regarding the removal of the Sleep Timeline Benchmark in the 4.15 update. This has caused confusion and frustration among users, who are now considering alternative devices.

So, what are the differences between the free and premium sleep tracking features offered by Fitbit? Firstly, it's important to note that Fitbit offers basic sleep tracking for free with its devices. This includes tracking sleep patterns and providing a weekly sleep average. Users can access their sleep data by tapping the sleep tile in the app and swiping through the graphs. While this free version may not provide in-depth analysis, some users have found it to be more than sufficient for their needs.

On the other hand, Fitbit Premium offers more advanced sleep tracking features. For example, it provides a daily review of sleep, including sleep phases and heart rate, whereas the free version only offers a weekly aggregate. Premium users also receive a monthly analysis, which includes an animal representation of their sleeping patterns. However, some users have found that the additional data provided by Premium is not worth the cost, especially since some features, like O2 and heart rate tracking, may not work as expected.

It's worth mentioning that Fitbit offers a free trial of Premium, allowing users to test the additional features before committing to a subscription. Some new Fitbit devices also come with 3 to 6 months of Premium for free. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to Premium depends on individual needs and preferences. While some users find the extra data valuable, others may find that the basic sleep tracking offered for free is already comprehensive and useful.

Fitbit sleep tracking: device and app issues

Fitbit's sleep-tracking feature has been a source of frustration for many users, who have noticed significant changes and issues with the function. The sleep-tracking feature was a primary reason for many users to purchase a Fitbit device, but recent updates have led to a decline in its usability and accessibility.

One of the main issues is the removal of the Sleep Timeline Benchmark in the 4.15 update, which has made it more cumbersome and challenging to access sleep data. Users now have to navigate through multiple clicks and menus to access the same data they could previously view at a glance. This has led to disappointment and frustration, with some users considering alternative devices.

Additionally, there have been reports of discrepancies in sleep data, with the Fitbit device failing to accurately detect sleep and wake periods. This has resulted in incorrect sleep duration recordings, which affect the overall reliability of the sleep-tracking feature. Users have also reported issues with editing sleep logs, encountering errors when attempting to make adjustments.

The display of sleep information has also changed, moving away from comprehensive graphs that provided detailed sleep stage information. Instead, users now see a bar showing the total time asleep, with sleep percentages and specific awake/restless times no longer readily available. This has left users feeling deceived, as they believe they are being pushed to upgrade to more expensive models to regain access to features they once had.

While Fitbit has provided troubleshooting steps and alternative methods to access sleep data, such as through the ""Discover" tab or by checking sync settings, the changes have still disappointed many users. The issues with sleep tracking on Fitbit devices and the app have led to a decline in user satisfaction, with some considering alternative brands for their next purchase.

Frequently asked questions