When consumer technology companies offer free software upgrades, everyone benefits (usually) Especially for Fitbit Sense 2 and Versa 4

But that's not the only device with free new features The Fitbit Inspire 3, the best affordable fitness tracker, and the Charge 6, the best fitness tracker for many, also benefit everything you need to know about Fitbit's new software is here

The most notable update is improved heart rate tracking accuracy for the Fitbit Sense 2, Versa 4, and Inspire 3 (oddly, not for the Charge 6)

Google notes that these improvements are due to advances in machine learning, which should lead to more accurate calculations for other fitness metrics, including calories burned and active zone minutes

With the latest firmware, the Fitbit Sense 2 and Versa 4 now support the YouTube Music app, allowing users to browse, select, and play songs directly from their wrist However, a YouTube Premium or YouTube Music Premium subscription is required

With Google's ownership of Fitbit, support for YouTube Music was somewhat expected Since the launch of both devices, Google has added several practical non-fitness apps through firmware, including Google Maps and Google Wallet However, there is still no access to Google Assistant and only Alexa, which is frustrating But maybe next time we will have better luck

The latest software should also improve the GPS accuracy of Versa and Sense, as it can automatically switch between the onboard antenna and the antenna from a paired device

In addition, Sense 2 and Versa 4 can now automatically detect the following workouts without user input: elliptical, rowing, and spinning These join running, walking, and cycling

In terms of usability, Sense 2 and Versa 4 have a new magnification feature that allows users to adjust and set the device's text size to their liking for easier viewing

The entry-level Fitbit Inspire 3 now supports 20 different workouts, previously available only on higher-end models This means that Inspire 3 users, including myself, finally have access to all of Fitbit's 40+ exercise modes In addition, the Inspire can now automatically detect running, walking, biking, elliptical, rowing, and spinning, the same as its more expensive siblings

The Fitbit Charge 6 likewise benefits from Google's GPS tweaks to improve accuracy when paired with a smartphone And like the Inspire 3, it now automatically recognizes running, walking, biking, elliptical, rowing, and spinning

To install the latest software on your Fitbit device, first make sure the Fitbit app on your smartphone is up to date It will look like a small smartphone next to a small smartwatch

If an update is available (Google delivers updates in waves), you will see a pink button with an option to download Click the button and follow the on-screen instructions

If you don't see a download button next to your device's photo in the app, don't panic, it will appear soon enough I am still waiting for the opportunity to upgrade Sense 2