Fitbit confirms that its next smartwatch will have its own app store

Fitbit, fitness tracking wearable manufacturer, has confirmed that its next smartwatch will have its own app store and users will be able to download apps for the device from the dedicated app store. Fitbit will also release a software development kit for developers (SDK) with the next smartwatch.

CEO James Park told in an interview that initially, the smartwatch will come with few essential apps although the SDK will be released to third party developers to flush in the apps on the app store.

There was a buzz regarding third party app support which was confirmed by the CEO himself who also made it clear that get on the Fitbit app store, developers need to develop apps that support iOS and Android devices. Fitbit will then run a screening to see if the app is suitable.

There were reports of Spotify backing out from a partnership with Fitbit and Park gave a hint at its confirmation. "All we can say at this point is that music is a really important part of the fitness experience, and you'll see functionality related to that," Park said. "When it comes to the music industry, it's not just technical. There are business issues as well when it comes to offline playback."

Although Fitbit has sold more than 60 million wearable devices to date, 2017 particularly hasn't been a great year for the enterprise and its shares are down nearly 60 percent. Fitbit needs to revitalize its products with better offerings for consumers. With competitors like Apple and Xiaomi, it is crucial that Fitbit reenters the domain.

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