Apple has certainly created an impressive ecosystem for the Apple Watch. With its various fitness challenges, activity rings, and competitive features, the company has discovered ways to make exercising enjoyable for many. However, the drawback is that some individuals simply aren’t fans of the smartwatch design.
The Proposal
In brief, I propose that Apple should permit third-party health trackers to connect with the Apple Fitness app. The condition? It would be linked to an Apple Fitness+ subscription.
Apple introduced its Fitness+ service at the close of 2020 during the pandemic, delivering easy-to-follow workout videos that could be done at home while ensuring a good workout. What makes it appealing is that if you own an Apple Watch, your heart rate and activity rings will display on the TV in real-time, providing precise insights as you exercise.
Apple’s increasing focus on services is evident. Fitness+ is attractively priced at $9.99/month or $79.99/year, and there’s even a 3-month free trial available.
With that said, there’s a significant opportunity for Apple to expand its user base for Apple Fitness+ by allowing any health tracker user access to the service just like Apple Watch owners do.
Why Apple Should Consider It
You might ask, why would Apple want to partner with third parties? The answer lies in the potential benefits. Apple is currently under considerable antitrust scrutiny concerning its ecosystem, particularly regarding the Apple Watch.
Recently, the DOJ sued Apple, claiming it operates as a monopoly. A major point raised was that an Apple Watch is exclusively compatible with an iPhone, meaning anyone wanting to switch to a different phone would have to buy a new wearable.
Apple’s response was that while they had explored compatibility for the Apple Watch with Android, they ultimately abandoned the project due to technical hurdles.
However, if Apple were to accept my proposal and enable third-party fitness trackers to join the Apple Fitness ecosystem like Apple Watch users, they could argue that the iPhone lock-in with the Apple Watch is significantly reduced.
Conclusion
A variety of fitness trackers dominate the market, including options like WHOOP, Oura Ring, and Fitbit Charge. While these aren’t smartwatches, they provide accurate fitness tracking that many users appreciate.
Though I personally wouldn’t trade my Apple Watch, it would indeed be exciting for Apple to create a more level playing field with its competitors. Sharing activity rings and challenges with friends who don’t wear an Apple Watch would be incredible.
While the Apple Watch is fantastic, alternative devices offer better tracking, longer battery life, and other advantages. By integrating Fitness+, Apple could attract these users while enhancing the overall Apple Fitness ecosystem.
Popular fitness trackers on the market:
What are your thoughts on this proposal? Share your opinions in the comments.
My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:
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