Google Health 5.05 Brings Fitbit Data Sync to Apple Health on iPhone

Google has released version 5.05 of its Google Health app, and the standout feature for many users is the new ability to sync Fitbit data to Apple Health on iPhone. This update finally enables two-way data sharing between the platforms, closing a gap that had frustrated Fitbit owners in the Apple ecosystem for years.Previously, Google Health could read data from Apple Health, but it could not write Fitbit-tracked information back into Apple’s Health app. Version 5.05 changes that.What’s New in Google Health 5.05The key addition is the ability to share data from Google Health to Apple Health. Supported categories include:Exercise and workout records Sleep data Steps and activity metrics Vitals (such as heart rate and related measurements) Other compatible health and fitness information recorded by Fitbit devices Users can now view their Fitbit-sourced data alongside information from Apple Watch, iPhone, and other HealthKit-compatible apps, all within Apple Health.The update also introduces Smart Health Links (available in the US), which allow users to create secure, shareable summaries of medical records for healthcare providers or family members.Additional improvements address stability issues related to VO2 Max calculations, exercise maps, and workout editing.How the Sync WorksAfter updating to Google Health 5.05 on iOS:Open the Google Health app. Navigate to Connections → Apps and services. Select Apple Health and follow the prompts to grant permissions. Choose which data categories to share. Once enabled, compatible Fitbit data begins flowing into Apple Health, where it becomes available to other apps that use HealthKit.Note that not every metric transfers. Heart rate variability (HRV), for example, is currently excluded, likely due to differences in how the two platforms calculate the value.Why This Matters for Fitbit and iPhone UsersFor years, Fitbit users on iPhone had to rely on third-party tools or incomplete workarounds to get their data into Apple Health. Native support was missing since the early days of HealthKit. This update removes that friction and makes Fitbit devices (including the newer Fitbit Air) more practical for people deeply embedded in Apple’s ecosystem.It also benefits users who prefer Fitbit’s tracking style or form factor but still want a unified view of their health data in Apple Health.Broader ContextGoogle Health (the evolution of the former Fitbit app) aims to serve as a central hub for health and wellness data from multiple sources, including Fitbit hardware, Pixel Watch, Health Connect on Android, Apple Health, and medical records. Adding write access to Apple Health strengthens that cross-platform vision.The move reflects a growing industry emphasis on data portability and user control, even as companies compete in the wearable and health-tracking space.Limitations and ConsiderationsWhile the sync is a clear improvement, some gaps remain:Certain advanced or proprietary metrics may not transfer Users must manually enable and manage permissions Battery and background sync behavior will depend on iOS settings Privacy-conscious users should review exactly which data categories they share As with any health data integration, it’s worth confirming that the information appears correctly and that permissions align with personal preferences.AvailabilityGoogle Health 5.05 is rolling out now on the App Store for iOS and is also becoming available on Android. Existing Fitbit users who have transitioned to the Google Health app should see the update through normal app store channels.Final ThoughtsThe addition of Apple Health sync for Fitbit data in Google Health 5.05 is a practical and long-requested improvement. It makes life easier for iPhone users who wear Fitbit trackers and prefer to keep their health information consolidated in Apple’s platform.By enabling two-way data flow, Google is reducing one of the remaining barriers between its health ecosystem and Apple’s, giving users more flexibility in how they track and view their fitness and wellness information.