On November 1, 2019, a rumor was confirmed within the technology sector, a rumor that suggested that Google could buy Fibit, the most veteran manufacturer on the market when it comes to exercise quantifying wristbands. As is usual in this type of purchase, the regulatory authorities had to give the go-ahead.
Regulatory authorities that, to this day, I keep wondering what they were thinking when in 2014 allowed the purchase of WhatsApp by Facebook. The European Commission opened an investigation to verify what would happen to Fitbit's customer data.
Finally, the European Commission has approved the purchase since Fitbit ensures that the data of Fitbit users will not be used at any time by Google for advertising, since the data will be kept independently of what Google stores. In addition, Google's interest is in the devices, not in the data of its customers (a truth that we could half consider).
From Google they affirm that users will continue to have the option of connect to third party services to monitor and analyze your physical activity, without being forced to use the solution that Google offers through Google Fit.
This is the most important point that justified the decision of the European Commission to open an investigation, since wants to avoid monopolies (something they did not do with WhatsApp and now they are regretting).
Fitbit led the evolution of quantifying wristbands
Fitbit launched the first quantifying bracelet in 2009 and since then it has put on the market more than 120 million units. However, in recent years, due to the rise of new manufacturers, it is increasingly difficult to reach more people, so it is betting on offering additional services that no other manufacturer has.
