Activating Fitbit MobileTrack transforms your smartphone into a basic activity tracker, enabling you to record steps, distance, and calories burned directly through the Fitbit app.
Setting Up and Turning On Fitbit MobileTrack
Fitbit MobileTrack allows you to use your phone's sensors to track basic activity when you don't have a Fitbit device or choose not to wear one. Getting it up and running is a straightforward process within the Fitbit application.
Step-by-Step Activation Guide
To turn on Fitbit MobileTrack and begin tracking your activity with just your phone, follow these steps:
- Download the Fitbit App: If you haven't already, download and install the official Fitbit app from your smartphone's app store (available on Google Play for Android and the Apple App Store for iOS).
- Open the App and Log In: Launch the Fitbit app and sign in to your Fitbit account. If you're a new user, you'll need to create an account first.
- Initiate Device Setup:
- Tap your profile picture (or the Account icon) in the top-left corner of the app dashboard.
- Select "Set Up a Device".
- Choose MobileTrack: From the list of devices, scroll down and select "MobileTrack" (or "Phone" as a tracker option).
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide you through connecting MobileTrack to your account. This typically involves:
- Confirming your personal information: Ensure your height, weight, and gender are accurate for better tracking.
- Granting necessary permissions: Allow Fitbit to access your phone's motion and location sensors. These are crucial for accurate step and distance tracking.
- Syncing: The app will then finalize the setup.
Once your MobileTrack is up and running – meaning your phone is successfully configured to track your activity – give yourself a big high-five! You've crushed those initial setup instructions and are ready to track your daily movement directly from your phone. Your phone will now begin recording your steps and other activities in the background, which you can view on your Fitbit dashboard.
Prerequisites for Optimal MobileTrack Performance
For MobileTrack to function effectively, ensure your smartphone meets these basic requirements:
- Compatible Smartphone: Most modern smartphones (iOS and Android) with built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes are compatible.
- Fitbit App Installed: The latest version of the Fitbit app is essential.
- Permissions Granted: You must grant the Fitbit app permissions to access your phone's motion activity and location services.
- Bluetooth and Location Services: While MobileTrack doesn't strictly require Bluetooth for basic step tracking, enabling location services enhances accuracy, especially for mapping walks or runs.
Enhancing Your MobileTrack Experience
To get the most accurate tracking from Fitbit MobileTrack:
- Keep Your Phone With You: For steps and distance to be counted, your phone must be on your person (e.g., in a pocket, arm band, or hand) when you're active.
- Ensure Permissions Stay Enabled: Periodically check your phone's settings to confirm that the Fitbit app still has the necessary permissions.
- Consider GPS for Outdoor Activities: For activities like running or cycling, starting a "Track Exercise" session within the app and enabling GPS will provide more detailed route maps and distance data.
MobileTrack vs. Dedicated Fitbit Device
While MobileTrack is a convenient way to get started with activity tracking, it's important to understand its differences from a dedicated Fitbit device:
| Feature | Fitbit MobileTrack (Phone) | Dedicated Fitbit Device |
|---|---|---|
| Tracking Source | Smartphone's sensors | Device's specialized sensors |
| Primary Data | Steps, Distance, Calories | Steps, Distance, Calories, Sleep, Heart Rate, Floors Climbed, SpO2, etc. |
| Wearability | Must carry phone at all times for activity to be recorded | Worn on wrist, clip, or other body parts for constant tracking |
| Accuracy | Dependent on phone model, carrying position, and app permissions | Generally more consistent, precise, and less prone to "missed" steps |
| Additional Features | Basic activity tracking | Advanced metrics, smart notifications, silent alarms, guided breathing, water resistance |
| Cost | Free (with Fitbit app) | Requires purchase of a device |
Fitbit MobileTrack is an excellent entry point for anyone looking to track basic fitness metrics without investing in a device, offering a practical way to monitor your daily movement.
