Fitbits are the new craze among fitness fanatics of every generation! Users are totally dependent on their Fitbits to track their outdoor activities! However, if you’re wondering why your Fitbit GPS not working, this would lead to a lot of hassle! So, if you don’t want to be in that sinking boat and wonder why your Fitbit GPS is not working, discover the ways to fix this issue and get your reliable Fitbit back on track!
If your Fitbit has a built-in GPS that is not working, you don’t have to make assumptions that your Fitbit is ruined. No need to spoil your mood! Because the Fitbit GPS can now be fixed!
Why Is Fitbit GPS Not Working?
It is crucial that the Fitbit GPS keeps working properly to get accurate results for your workouts! The most common reason for Fitbit GPS not working is that several Fitbits don’t have an in-built GPS. However, if your Fitbit has an in-built GPS, then there can be a number of different reasons why it is not working properly.
- Due to obstructions like a bad satellite signal, your GPS can have poor strength, which can prevent the Fitbit GPS from working properly.
- Incorrect GPS settings are used on your device.
- You have not allowed GPS permissions on your Fitbit app and device.
- The Fitbit app and tracker are not in sync with one another.
- Outdated software on your Fitbit or app is causing the problem.
- There can be a temporary glitch or a minor software bug, which may cause the Fitbit GPS to stop working on Fitbit Charge 4, 5, or other Fitbits.
How To Fix Fitbit GPS Not Working?
Fix 1: Clear View To Get Proper Satellite Signals
The Fitbit’s GPS signal is received from the satellites, and if there are any tall buildings, dense trees, or any such surroundings, then they can block the signal. Hence, it is important to check your surroundings and confirm if your Fitbit has a clear view of the sky to get proper satellite signals. Moreover, a cloudy day or being indoors can also weaken the GPS connection.
Fix 2: Check If The Fitbit GPS Is Enabled
Your Fitbit’s GPS will automatically get activated when you start an outdoor exercise on a Fitbit. However, in several cases, the GPS may not switch on. Here are the simple steps to make sure GPS is enabled:
- Wake up the display of your Fitbit.
- Go to the Exercise app.
- Now, navigate to the Settings.
- Then, go to the GPS, and make sure it is turned on (or set to Phone GPS).
Fix 3: Turn On The Location Services On The Device
If your Fitbit’s GPS is activated but still not working, then you need to make sure the location services on your paired device are turned on. Here is how you can turn on the location services on your device.
On iOS Devices:
- Navigate to the Settings app.
- Then, go to the Privacy & Security option.
- Now, select Location Services.
- Toggle on the Location option.
- Scroll down and tap Fitbit > While Using the App or Always.
On Android Devices:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll and tap on Location.
- Toggle on the option.
- Tap on the Location Mode option.
- Then, select High Accuracy.
Moreover, you can open the Fitbit app from the list of apps and set the GPS permission to “Always” or “While using the app”.
Fix 4: Update The Software Of Your Fitbit
If your Fitbit GPS suddenly stops working, then it is possible that there is a glitch or an outdated software. A timely update of your Fitbit can help you easily fix these errors. Here is what you need to do to update your Fitbit’s software.
- Open your Fitbit app on your phone.
- Then, tap on the Profile icon.
- Tap on your Fitbit Device.
- Next, tap on the Update option if an update is available. (Make sure that your Fitbit is close to your device so that the connection does not get lost).
- Wait until the update is completed.
Fix 5: Restart Your Fitbit
If updating the software does not resolve the problem and you are still wondering how to fix the Fitbit GPS not working, then try restarting your Fitbit.
- Find the Settings app by swiping down from the clock screen.
- Then, open the Settings.
- Now, tap on the Restart Device button.
- Then, confirm by tapping on Restart again.
Fix 6: Sync Your Fitbit With The App
It is essential to sync your Fitbit device with the Fitbit application on your smartphone for data accuracy and optimal performance. Moreover, a seamless connection helps maintain proper GPS functionality.
- Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
- Then, tap on the Today tab. Swipe down on the screen to force a sync.
- Alternatively, tap on your profile picture.
- Now, tap on your Fitbit device > Sync Now.
Fix 7: Factory Reset Your Fitbit
If nothing is working for you and the GPS on your Fitbit is not working, then you can perform a factory reset on your Fitbit. This will help in bringing your Fitbit to default settings by deleting the stored data on your device. Follow the steps mentioned below to factory reset your Fitbit:
- Swipe down from the clock face (home screen) and lto open settings.
- Next, tap on the Settings app.
- Then, scroll through the settings and tap on Device Info.
- Tap on the Clear User Data option.
- Now, tap and hold the screen (or side button) for 3 seconds when prompted to initiate the process.
Fix 8: Contact The Fitbit Support Team
Have you tried all the ways that have been discussed above? If yes, and still nothing is working to fix the GPS, then you can contact the Fitbit support team as a last resort.
Wrapping Up
Fitbit is a handy tool used by millions of users from around the world for fitness tracking. GPS on Fitbits is one of the essential features that help in providing better results to fitness enthusiasts. However, not every Fitbit has an in-built GPS.
If you are looking for outdoor workouts, then Fitbits with GPS can be highly beneficial. But if your Fitbit GPS not working, then it can be troublesome for fitness freaks because they will have to compromise on their exercise data.
Also read:
- How To Turn On Fitbit Charge 6 and Get Started
- Enable DND On Fitbit | Stop The Buzz Without Missing Key Features
