"Used" Fitbit will not update Firmware

[AnitaCS]

I purchased an unopened packaged Zip from eBay a few months ago for a backup since new ones are not sold any longer.  My husband and I both use them and don't want a wrist tracker.  We work in healthcare and wash our hands too much.

My husband crushed his Zip, so we tried to install the one we bought from Ebay.  It would never completely install because it needed a firmware update which we were unable to complete.  

Has Fitbit turned off the ability for any firmware updates so we are forced to buy the newer products?

[EGomar]

I have the exact same issue? Just got off with customer support and he was unable to help me. 

[Williger]

@AnitaCS @EGomar no, Fitbit hasn't disabled the ability to update the firmware. Some ZIPS won't update, unfortunately, it's a known issue, and the same thing happens with some Fitbit Ones at firmware version 6.46. One workaround I've used successfully in both scenarios is updating from a different older device with an older application, specifically my Windows10PC or my Amazon Fire tablet vs. my Androids. I've even got an old HP touchpad with Android with the old version that comes in handy for these situations. May I recommend if buying something from eBay, presumably with 30-day or 60-day free returns to open the box and set them up within your return window? Even if you want it for a backup for the future, open boxes, connect, sync, and update, then go back to your old tracker. Otherwise, you may be buying someone else's problems.

Cockadoodlezip

Here are several ZIPS that supposedly didn't work or update, yet all are working perfectly now after updating with my older apps and adjusting the contacts to better connect the battery.

Good luck and happy stepping!

[AdrianAmeno]

Hi, I need some help here. I tried updating my zip firmware, and it just got stuck. I tried to restart it by removing the battery from my zip and reseat it, but when it boots up its still the flashing updating bar at midway. I tried forgetting it from my app, and now I'm not able to reconnect it to my phone or to do anything with it. Anyone has any experience where I can probably hard reset the zip to factory defaults, or to restore it back to working state? Thanks. 

[frizzbird]

Any chance you would be willing to help me update the firmware on my zip if I mailed it to you? I have tried using your suggestion to update my old zip using my oldest devices - but they are all Apple devices and maybe not running old enough versions of the Fitbit app. I get to the "it can take 5-10 mins" screen, click next, and then nothing happens. It just goes back to the zip device info page. At this point, I have nothing to lose from mailing it to a stranger to see if they can get it updated.