Versa Smartwatches - Fitbit OS 4.2.1 Firmware Update (72.1.9)

[FitbitCommunity]

Update 1/20/2021: We've updated to 100%

---

We started releasing Fitbit OS 4.2.1 to Versa, Versa Lite, and Versa 2 customers. This is a progressive rollout which means everyone will receive it at different stages. We roll out releases in phases as a cautionary measure so that we can monitor performance closely and make adjustments if needed. 

*Firmware releases aren't distributed based on region or location and can reach anyone no matter where you reside. 

WHAT’S NEW AND FIXED 

Read our help article for the latest updates. 

HOW DO I UPDATE?

Find step-by-step instructions for updating Versa smartwatch here. 

If you run into any trouble updating your Fitbit device, review these troubleshooting tips. If you have issues after completing the update, try restarting the watch. 

VERSA LITE users - If you have trouble updating the firmware:

Follow the steps in this help article where we outline troubleshooting steps just for Versa Lite. 

We appreciate your patience while we work to roll this out to everyone. 

[gadgetboy]

Is there a way to roll back to the previous firmware?

[Always4anna]

I know!!! Wouldn't that makes sense?? The app doesn't offer that option anymore.

[PersianPunisher]

I am also having inaccurate HR and Zone numbers since the update.

I have restarted etc.

Very close to tossing this FitBit.

What is the solution?  Can we roll back this update?

[hskit]

Seems like the problem is that for some odd reason the update means certain Samsung phones won't sync anymore. It's fine on my SO's Pixel, but just won't sync to my A10 (which isn't even that old).

Which is pretty **ahem** stupid. Unless they want all the Samsung owners to just go and buy a Samsung smartwatch?

What will it take for the software to be rolled back, given how apparently awful it is?

[Presley35]

I contacted customer care, and they cant help me. I brought my Fitbit brand
new sealed off of an ebay store. As it wasnt a shop direct link with
fitbit. Ie an Argos, curry's I have no warranty. So basically they wont
help me. I feel like I've wasted £140. Such a shame I loved my Versa 2.

---------------------------------

Unfortunately not. I asked customer care this, after the last update.
Supposedly this update was to sort out the hr reading better. Made it even
worse.

[Homeit]

No. Apparently it is a casualty of the update.

[ShelleyRN]

I updated the firmware on 1/22/21, and since then, have only been able to sync once (after I tried all the troubleshooting:  turning the bluetooth off and back on, turning my phone (android) off and back on, uninstalling the app, unpairing and re-pairing my Versa lite, turning my Versa lite off and back on. At that last sync, it didn't recognize any sleep information and now the app doesn't even show that sleep info is an option.  Since that time yesterday, it now cannot find my device.  As others have asked, is there a way to go back to the previous firmware?  Or what else can I do--it's pretty much useless as is.

[iakidrn]

Me too, so frustrating 😠

[PatTheDog]

The link in the iOS Fitbit app is broken:

Learn more about the latest Fitbit OS

This, the lack of comprehensive release notes, the experiences other users have posted here do not fill me with confidence.

I’m going to wait a while before updating.

[gadgetboy]

@KateFitbitAre you going to provide us with an update on a fix or will we all have to call customer support?

[chris2121]

It looks like Fitbit have done it again.  Every time they release a firmware update there are problems like this and loads of angry users.  I'm sure that in the past they have reintroduced old bugs - both in the firmware and in the phone app.  The last update caused all sorts of problems and lots of devices simply died.  At least that release introduced new functionality.

I suspect that if the update fails to install correctly the devices simply can't recover.  There is obviously a significant risk of this happening any time you go through the process.  

It's also very important to realise that firmware updates are a one way trip.  You cannot revert to a previous version if you don't like the changes.  

Unless you really want the update don't install it.  Years ago when I was responsible for IT installations anytime a software update came along I would check the release notes in detail and then do a trial installation first.  

[Rrs43082]

I just bought a versa2. Firmware listed as 35.7 out of the box. It's not displaying upgrade button. When will my watch be upgraded? Can't use SpO2 or other features until phone is on current version...

[jpstasi]

If you want your Versa 2 to function properly, I suggest you consider yourself lucky if you don't see an update button. Do not update your firmware until they have corrected these issues. This update has nothing to do with the phone app but with the watch itself. 

[BrawnyBeats]

Given the issues I had with my previous Versa after a firmware update (completely bricked it), I will not be updating this one. Particularly as there is absolutely no mention of what the 'bug fixes' are, and the fact there's already 5 pages of people complaining about it! We shouldn't be the guinea pigs for a £200 device, this should be thoroughly tested.

Is there any way to switch off the update notifications please?

[craigrrapson]

just did a 1 hour workout and I have 3 zone minutes! This new update has screwed everything up. I’ve reported it ion Twitter and all they sent me were things to change on heart rate zones totally irrelevant. Surely they must know by now there are serious issues with the latest update! They seem totally oblivious 

Moderator Edit: Formatting

[marshra]

I understand your point,  but if a company releases an update the consumers should feel confident that the product will continue to work.    Most people understand things can go wrong and it may take time to fix but they should get resolved.    The answer should not be buy a new  device.    

[Ldice]

My heart rate has been SO wrong since the update. I am certain I am not "below zone" 35 minutes into a spin class after a 75 second sprint... Have you found a fix?? 

[chris2121]

@BrawnyBeats I'm with you on this one.  Without more details on the 'bug fixes' I can see no real benefit in installing this update and plenty of downsides.  The reliability of the HRM does need fixing.  I'm on the previous release and it sometimes gives completely wrong data with a tendency to under report but sometimes to be way too high.  But it seems the attempt at a bug fix may have made it worse.  

I don't think you can completely switch off notifications but you can just dismiss the reminders.  I don't think you are ever forced to install the updates although I guess ultimately there may be a compatibility issue with the phone app.

For all those asking for a fix, the only answer is to wait for Fitbit to release another firmware update and based on past performance that is likely to be months.

[passy]

I've been relying on my Fitbit through the pandemic to stick to at least a similar activity level as I did before. Now with the zone minutes and heart rate tracking being absolutely all over the place and about as reliable as determining it by rolling a dice, I'm completely lost on how to keep up with my routine. I know WFH makes everything harder but I don't understand how such a glaring regression could make it through testing.

[MarreFitbit]

Hello everyone! 

We acknowledge the limitation we have on our part particularly on what you have experienced. We‘re taking into consideration your comments and sentiments with regards to our products and services.

If your heart rate readings are not being accurate after the update, please make sure to follow the tips and recommendations provided here What factors can affect my heart-rate reading on my Fitbit device? 

If the screen of your watch went blank after the update, restart your watch as suggested here How do I restart my Fitbit device? If the restart doesn't work try to change your clock face. If this fixes the issue, you can change your clock face back to the original clock face. 

In case you run into syncing difficulties after the update, please see Why won't my Fitbit device sync?