Table of Contents

How to Adjust the Time on Your Fitbit: A Comprehensive Guide

Adjusting the time on your Fitbit is typically an automated process, relying on syncing with your connected device (phone, tablet, or computer). The most reliable method is to ensure your Fitbit syncs with the Fitbit app, as this automatically updates the time. If the time is incorrect, investigate your linked device’s time settings or force a sync.

Understanding Fitbit Time Synchronization

Fitbits are designed to synchronize with your connected device to maintain accurate time. This eliminates the need for manual time adjustments in most cases. However, there are instances where the time may be incorrect. Let’s delve into the methods to fix this.

Method 1: Forcing a Sync with the Fitbit App

The easiest and most common solution is to force a sync with the Fitbit app. This forces the Fitbit to communicate with your device and grab the correct time.

Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet.
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your device. Bluetooth is essential for the Fitbit to communicate with the app.
Select your Fitbit device from the dashboard (usually by tapping the device icon in the top-right corner).
Locate the “Sync Now” option (often a circular arrow icon or text label).
Tap “Sync Now.” Wait for the sync to complete. This can take a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on your connection and the amount of data being transferred.
Check your Fitbit’s display. The time should now be correct.

Method 2: Verify Your Connected Device’s Time Zone and Settings

If syncing doesn’t resolve the issue, the problem might lie with the time settings on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Your Fitbit uses these settings as a reference point.

Check your device’s time zone: Navigate to your device’s settings (usually under “General” or “Date & Time”). Ensure the correct time zone is selected. Even if you’re in the right general area, inaccuracies can creep in if the specific time zone is wrong.
Verify automatic time updates are enabled: Most devices have an option to automatically set the time and time zone. Enable this feature to ensure your device is always using the correct time. On iPhones, this is usually “Set Automatically” under Date & Time. On Android devices, look for “Automatic date & time” and “Automatic time zone.”
Correct any errors: If the time or date are manually set and incorrect, adjust them accordingly and then attempt another Fitbit sync.

Method 3: Restarting Your Fitbit

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor glitches that might be interfering with the time synchronization.

Identify your Fitbit model: The restart process varies slightly depending on the model.
Restart your Fitbit:
- Fitbit Ace, Inspire, Inspire HR, and Inspire 2: Connect the device to the charging cable. Press the button on the side of the tracker five times within a few seconds. The Fitbit logo will appear, indicating a restart.
- Fitbit Charge 3, 4, and 5: Connect the device to the charging cable. Press and hold the button on the side of the tracker for about 8 seconds until you see the Fitbit logo appear.
- Fitbit Luxe: Connect the device to the charging cable. Press the button three times within a few seconds.
- Fitbit Sense and Versa Series: Press and hold the button(s) for about 10 seconds until the Fitbit logo appears on the screen.
Sync again: After restarting, sync your Fitbit with the app to update the time.

Method 4: Reinstalling the Fitbit App

In rare cases, a corrupted Fitbit app installation can cause synchronization issues.

Uninstall the Fitbit app from your device.
Restart your device: This ensures a clean slate.
Reinstall the Fitbit app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
Log in to your Fitbit account.
Sync your Fitbit with the newly installed app.

Method 5: Factory Reset (Last Resort)

A factory reset should only be considered if all other methods fail, as it will erase all data stored on your Fitbit that hasn’t been synced.

Refer to your Fitbit model’s instructions: The process varies, but usually involves pressing and holding buttons on the device. You can find the specific instructions on the Fitbit Help website or by searching online for “[Your Fitbit Model] factory reset.”
Follow the instructions carefully.
Set up your Fitbit again in the Fitbit app as if it were a new device.
Sync your Fitbit to update the time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fitbit Time Adjustments

Here are some common questions about adjusting the time on your Fitbit, along with detailed answers:

1. Why is my Fitbit showing the wrong time?

Several factors can cause this, including: failure to sync with your connected device, incorrect time zone settings on your phone or computer, a software glitch on the Fitbit itself, or a rare hardware issue. Always start by trying to sync your Fitbit with the Fitbit app.

2. Does my Fitbit automatically update the time?

Yes, Fitbits are designed to automatically update the time when synced with your connected device, as long as your device has the correct time and time zone settings. This is the intended and primary method of time synchronization.

3. Can I manually set the time on my Fitbit?

No, Fitbits do not offer a manual time setting option directly on the device itself. You must rely on syncing with a device that has the correct time. This design choice ensures accuracy by leveraging the time settings of your phone, tablet, or computer.

4. What do I do if my Fitbit is still showing the wrong time after syncing?

First, double-check the time and time zone settings on your connected device (phone, tablet, or computer). Ensure automatic time updates are enabled. Then, try restarting your Fitbit. If the problem persists, consider reinstalling the Fitbit app.

5. How often should I sync my Fitbit to keep the time accurate?

While Fitbits are generally good at keeping time, it’s recommended to sync your device at least once a day. This ensures your data is backed up and that your Fitbit has the most up-to-date information, including the correct time.

6. Will changing time zones affect my Fitbit’s time?

Yes, changing time zones on your connected device will affect your Fitbit’s time. The next time you sync your Fitbit, it will automatically adjust to the new time zone. Ensure your device’s time zone is correct before syncing.

7. My Fitbit is not syncing. How can I fix this?

Troubleshoot syncing issues by ensuring Bluetooth is enabled, your Fitbit is close to your device, your device has a stable internet connection (for app functionality), and the Fitbit app is up to date. Try restarting both your Fitbit and your connected device. If problems continue, consult the Fitbit Help website for specific troubleshooting steps related to your Fitbit model. A weak Bluetooth signal is a common culprit.

8. Does the Fitbit clock display change automatically for Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

Yes, if your connected device has automatic DST adjustments enabled, your Fitbit will automatically adjust when you sync. Ensure your device’s time zone is properly configured for DST.

9. I’ve tried everything, and my Fitbit is still wrong. Is it broken?

While it’s possible there’s a hardware issue, it’s more likely a software or synchronization problem. Before concluding it’s broken, try a factory reset as a last resort. If the time remains incorrect after a factory reset and syncing with a verified accurate device, contact Fitbit Support for further assistance.

10. How do I know which Fitbit model I have?

The model number is usually printed on the back of the device itself or on the original packaging. You can also find it within the Fitbit app under “Device Info” or a similar section. Knowing your model is crucial for troubleshooting, especially when restarting or performing a factory reset.

11. What if I don’t have a smartphone? Can I still sync my Fitbit to adjust the time?

Yes, you can sync your Fitbit with a computer using the Fitbit Connect software. Download and install Fitbit Connect from the Fitbit website. This allows you to sync your Fitbit even without a smartphone. Ensure your computer’s time and time zone settings are correct.

12. Does the time format (12-hour vs. 24-hour) affect the accuracy of the time on my Fitbit?

No, the time format does not affect the accuracy of the time, only the display format. You can change the time format within the Fitbit app under your account settings or device settings. Regardless of the format, the underlying time should remain consistent.