Pebble has confirmed it is being acquired by Fitbit, the company has also revealed that it is shutting down and will stop selling devices.
The company revealed that existing Pebble devices will continue to work, they will also be refunding any Kickstarter backers who have not received their device.
Impact on Existing Pebble Users
As of December 7, 2016, Pebble is no longer operating as an independent entity and has shut down regular operations.
We are no longer manufacturing, promoting, or selling any new devices or products. One-to-one support is no longer available. Pebblers can still find replacement charging cables and other compatible accessories (bands, skins, etc.) from Amazon.com and third-party vendors like GadgetWraps and Clockwork Synergy.
Functionality or service quality may be reduced over time, and Pebble watches are no longer covered by or eligible for warranty exchange. We don’t expect to release regular software updates or new Pebble features. Our new mission will focus on bringing Pebble’s unique wearables expertise to future Fitbit products.
Pebble’s acquisition by Fitbit marks the end of an era for the pioneering smartwatch company. Pebble was one of the first companies to successfully crowdfund a smartwatch, raising over $10 million on Kickstarter in 2012. This success was followed by several other models, including the Pebble Time and Pebble 2, which were also well-received by the tech community.
Future of Pebble Technology
While Pebble devices will continue to function, users should be aware that the functionality or service quality may degrade over time. This is due to the lack of ongoing support and updates. Pebble watches are no longer covered by warranty, and no new features or regular software updates are expected. However, Pebble’s technology and expertise will not be lost entirely. Fitbit plans to integrate Pebble’s unique wearables expertise into its future products, potentially bringing some of Pebble’s innovative features to a broader audience.
For those who still own a Pebble device, there are still options available for maintaining and accessorizing their watches. Replacement charging cables and other compatible accessories such as bands and skins can be found on Amazon and through third-party vendors like GadgetWraps and Clockwork Synergy. This ensures that Pebble users can continue to enjoy their devices for as long as possible.
Looking Back at Pebble’s Legacy
Pebble’s journey from a Kickstarter sensation to being acquired by Fitbit is a testament to its impact on the wearable technology market. Pebble was known for its long battery life, customizable watch faces, and robust notification system, which set it apart from other smartwatches at the time. The company’s open platform also allowed developers to create a wide range of apps, further enhancing the user experience.
Despite its success, Pebble faced increasing competition from larger tech companies like Apple and Samsung, which eventually led to financial difficulties. The acquisition by Fitbit provides a new chapter for Pebble’s technology, allowing it to live on in future Fitbit products.
In conclusion, while Pebble as an independent company has come to an end, its influence on the smartwatch industry remains significant. The integration of Pebble’s technology into Fitbit’s product line holds promise for the future of wearable technology. Pebble users can continue to enjoy their devices with the support of third-party accessories, even as they look forward to new innovations from Fitbit.
You can find out more information about Pebble shutting down and them being acquired by Fitbit at the link below.
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