Questions (and problems) about connecting Versa to GPS

[Ilse23]

I just got a Fitbit versa 3 days ago.

Today I went for a run and I thought it would automatically connect to GPS (I have location settings on in my phone but I didn't have the fitbit app open) EDIT: I did start the run with the exercise app on the watch. 

Should I start the exercise with the Fitbit app? But then what's the use since my Versa won't show me the stats. 

Should it connect automatticaly and is this just an issue?

This is the first time I've tried connecting GPS so I don't even know if what I'm doing was wrong or if there's something wrong with the device.

[Weffz]

You have to use the exercise app on the versa and then start a run through that for it to connect to GPS. It won't track GPS if it's automatically logging it as a run if that makes sense.

[Ilse23]

Thanks for the reply, I wasn't clear enough in my original post, I edited it now.

I did start the run through the app, it just kept saying 'connecting...' without actually doing so.

Both bluetooth and location options on my phone were on. I'm using an iPhone SE.

[Weffz]

I has that trouble using my versa, it works fine now it's been updated (using android though). I also find that it struggles to connect if my phone is on power saving. Hope you're issue will be resolved soon.

[razerf15]

In iOS, you need to allow the Fitbit app location permission. From Apple: "You can modify privacy settings in Settings > Privacy. You can select a type of data from this list to see which apps have asked for permission to use that data. An app won't appear on the list until it asks permission to use your data. You can add or remove permission from any app that has asked for access to data. An app can use your data only if you have given it your permission."

[Rich_Laue]

Your Versa should connect to the phones GPS, and no need to use the tracking function of the phone app. 

Fitbit Notification services must be running and proper permissions must be given. You might need to enable gps for the run mode, on by default .

Also before starting a run, make sure the versa has a good God connection. the phone icon will show the status. 

I find if it still isn't conecting a phone restart fixes it.