Charge 5 not compatible with Windows 10/11 or Fire Tablet

[Mikey2]

I just had to return a brand new Charge 5.  After a day of severe aggravation with inability to connect the Charge 5 to my Windows laptop and Fire tablet, I phoned Fitbit customer service.  Much to my amazement, I was told the Charge 5 will not work with Windows or Fire.  Only with a Smartphone.  I am an elderly geezer, do not have and do not need or want an expensive "smartphone."   None of the info I read about the Charge 5 said the device would not work with Windows or Fire.  I've been using those two devices with my Fitbit One for over 7 years, and they work just fine. 

So, Fitbit, way to go!  I have no doubt you could have easily made the Charge 5 and its software compatible with both Windows and Fire tablet.  So my question is, why not?  You just lost a customer.  I was willing to spend a lot of money for the Charge 5, and was looking forward to using its health tracking capabilities.  What's wrong with you, Fitbit?  

Mike

[GailOkul]

Just bought a Fitbit Charge 5, thinking since I'm not tied to a cell phone this would be the answer to tracking my fitness levels as I can pair with my laptop. NOT THE ANSWER!! Fitbit indicated the Charge 5 could be paired with a computer with Windows 10 or above if the user didn't have a "smart' phone. So, I bought one. After the same time spent as Mikey2, including using the website that is recommended "myhelp.fitbit.com" that tells you how to pair with your computer, I finally did a live chat. Here's part of the discussion: 

1:09:31 Agent: Edwin R.: Note that Charge 5 is designed for smartphones, tablets or iPads. We do not have ways to set it up using a laptop or computer.

11:09:54 Gail O.: THAT IS NOT WHAT YOUR WEBSITE SAYS!!

11:10:54 Gail O.: It says that it will work with phones and tablets/computers.

11:11:57 Agent: Edwin R.: I will take this as a feedback and suggestion.

11:15:59 Gail O.: As directed by the instructions included in the fitbit, it says to go myfitbit.help.com/go. Those instructions tell you if you don't have a phone that has current enough software, you can pair with your computer. Telling me that you will take this suggestion as feedback is a bunch of BULL. I bought the Charge 5 because I wanted to track on my computer

not my phone. So, how about I return your product?

11:17:09 Agent: Edwin R.: I appreciate the details. Where did you purchase your device?

11:17:26 Gail O.: Through Amazon from Fitbit.

11:18:03 Agent: Edwin R.: If you decide to return your device, please contact Amazon instead.

11:18:58 Gail O.: Exactly==that's why we buy via Amazon. No BS, no hassle, and plenty of room to write a review.

11:19:30 Agent: Edwin R.: I appreciate your honest feedback in this matter and I really apologize for the inconvenience that this has caused you.

11:19:53 Agent: Edwin R.: This will help us to improve our products and services.

11:19:59 Agent: Edwin R.: Is there anything else that I can do for you?

11:22:01 Agent: Edwin R.: I haven’t heard from you. This chat will close in 1 minute.

11:22:04 Gail O.: Nope. appreciate your time but it's so unfortunate that Fitbit has not been truthful in the literature/advertising. You can tell your management that they pretty much suck.

11:23:10 Agent: Edwin R.: Again, I apologize for the inconvenience.

[Mikey2]

Let me chime in here as I posted the initial message.  Sorry to see another customer disappointed.  Edwin, thanks for your info, but frankly, I just do not believe Fitbit can't make the Charge 5 compatible with Windows or Fire.  It's a software design, you can do it.  Fitbit simply decided the heck with Windows or other users.  I wonder if the Charge 5 is compatible with a MAC laptop?  Edwin, it's hard to express the frustration I went through trying to set the thing up.  Hours wasted, and believe me, I was rather upset.  And I am very disappointed as I was looking forward to using the Charge 5.  And as Gail says, there was/is NO mention, unless it's very cryptic, in your product description that the device will not work with Windows or other than a smartphone.

Edwin, if Fitbit does not wish to generate ill will and disappointment, please state VERY plainly and clearly in your Charge 5 product info that the device does not work with ANY other platform but smartphones.  In fact, you should state, do not buy the Charge 5 if you wish to use it with Windows, Fire, etc, (all that won't work.)  

And by the way, why don't you strongly suggest to management that they get busy and develop the Charge 5 software needed for Windows, Fire, etc.  I know it can be done, it's simply a corporate decision.  Seems to me you would add to your customer base.

Mike

[Mikey2]

One thing I forgot to say...   The Fitbit rep was courteous and professional.  He immediately agreed to accept my return of the Charge 5, promptly sent me a USPS postpaid return label.  The label was in my email before we finished talking.  He said I will get a refund as soon as they receive and process the return.  I've already dropped the return off at the Post Office.  So that part I appreciate.  Now I'll see whether and how fast I get the refund.

Mike

[Morton555]

Thanks for posting this Mikey2. I was just about to buy the Charge 5 for use with my computer only.  You saved me a lot of time, money and frustration.  Sorry you had to experience these first hand.