Google Health Update Brings New Customization Features and Fitbit-Like Improvements

The Google Health app has been a source of frustration for many users unhappy with it replacing the discontinued Fitbit app. However, a newly released update delivers several welcome improvements, especially for Android users.

Google has rolled out Google Health version 5.02 for both Android and iOS, introducing a range of enhancements, including several features tailored specifically for Android devices.

Android Receives Better Customization and Dedicated Nap Tracking

Google Health on Android now supports drag-and-drop customization for metrics within the Key Metrics section of the Health tab. This added flexibility allows users to prioritize and organize the information most important to them, eliminating the need to search through less relevant data. The change directly addresses one of the most common criticisms of Google Health, which was that important health metrics were harder to access at a glance.

The update also improves food search functionality by displaying more useful information in search results, including both serving sizes and calorie counts. This marks the return of a feature familiar to former Fitbit users, who relied on seeing estimated calories and serving measurements when searching for food items.

In addition, Android users can now track daytime sleep more effectively. Naps are displayed in a separate section within the daily Sleep Score view, making them easier to identify and review.

Updates Available for All Users

Version 5.02 also introduces several broader improvements across the platform, including the return of previously requested functionality.

Among these additions are hourly activity charts in both the Today and Health tabs. The feature enables users to monitor their progress toward hourly step goals throughout the day.

For users who experience interrupted sleep, sleep-tracking information has become easier to interpret. The restlessness indicator has been repositioned closer to the sleep stages chart, creating a more intuitive view of overnight activity. Sleep tracking accuracy has also been improved through enhanced detection of brief waking periods.

Update Aims to Address Fitbit User Concerns

The latest release is expected to help alleviate some of the criticism Google Health has faced since replacing the Fitbit app.

Google’s Known Issues update published at the end of last month also indicates that numerous reported bugs and user-requested enhancements have either been resolved or are currently being worked on.