Fitbit devices will require a Google account in 2023

Source: Fitbit

Google works on continuing to absorb Fitbit into its ecosystem. The company completed its acquisition in 2021. and with that, we see a deeper integration of the brand into Google. Right now, you can use a Fitbit device by logging into the app with your Fitbit account. But starting "sometime in 2023," Google will require a Google account to sign up for Fitbit and activate a new device. The company plans to offer a tool to help migrate your Fitbit data into the Google account. When that's done, you can use your Google account to log into Fitbit directly.

Google says this move will offer Fitbit users better security and centralized privacy controls for their health data. The company wants to reassure users that their data won't be used for Google ads. This information is kept separately. Support for Fitbit accounts is expected to last until early 2025. Google promises it would be "transparent with our customers about the timeline for ending Fitbit accounts through notices within the Fitbit app, by email, and in help articles."

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This app lets Android users get a version of Apple's Dynamic Island

Source: Jawomo

Love or hate it, the iPhone 14's Dynamic Island has generated enough buzz to warrant a version of it on Android. Kind of. Developer Jawomo built the DynamicSpot app, which is available as an early access download on the Play Store. It is a freemium app with free options that let you adjust the position and size of the island to where your phone's notch is located. If you want more features like having the island on you lock screen or using it to open apps, that will be an additional US$4.99 purchase. The Verge cautions that since it isn't a native feature, it will need some finessing and tweaking to work seamlessly.

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'PUBG Mobile' partners with 'Squid Game' star Hoyeon Jung

Squid Game actress and model Hoyeon Jung is the latest star to work with PUBG Mobile for some in-game cosmetics. Jung will be the Commissioner of the newly-launched NUSA map, which will be part of the version 2.2 update. You can collect the special themed items by buying crates, including the “Ho Yeon Operation Erangel Set,” “Ho Yeon Purple Crown – Pan Skin,” “Ho Yeon Queen of Thorns Ornament” and “Ho Yeon Deadly Kiss – Kar98K Skin.” You can already start playing on the NUSA map, while the accessories will officially launch on September 23.

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DJI launches new compact Osmo Mobile 6 gimbal

Source: DJI

DJI has a new foldable gimbal mobile creators will love. The Osmo Mobile 6 features a quick-release magnetic phone clamp and 3-axis stabilization to give you the smoothest clips possible on compatible smartphones. According to DJI, this gimbal can support larger phones, even if they're in protective cases. You can convert the gimbal into a selfie stick to offer you different shooting angles. It also gets a new side wheel that lets you control zoom and focus or a more cinematic look. With its ActiveTrack 5.0 technology, focusing on your subjects should be easier.

Gimbals are typically bulky devices, but DJI has worked to make more compact accessories. The Osmo Mobile 6 comes in at a little over 300 grams and measures 189mm × 84.5mm × 44mm. You can get up to six hours and 24 minutes on a single charge. iPhone users get the option to have the gimbal enter into camera mode whe attached to the gimbal for quick shooting. We don't have the complete list of compatible smartphones. But the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 retails for US$159 (around CA$215).

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