GoKawiilWithings to require $99.50/year subscription for new users to sync data with third-party apps
Withings will require a Withings Plus subscription for automatic syncing of health data to third-party apps like Apple Health or Google Health, starting with accounts created on or after October 13, 2026. The subscription costs $9.95 monthly or $99.50 annually, though new devices include a one-month free trial with syncing included. Existing account holders created before that date keep free access to the syncing feature indefinitely, even if they register new Withings hardware later.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The move signals a broader industry shift toward subscription models for features once bundled with hardware purchases, which could affect how consumers value connected health devices going forward. Grandfathering existing accounts may be an attempt by Withings to limit backlash while still monetizing new customers, though the company has not stated this reasoning publicly. The policy could also complicate interoperability with platforms like Apple Health, which many users rely on to consolidate fitness data across devices.
- New Withings accounts created after October 13, 2026 need a $9.95/month or $99.50/year subscription for automatic third-party app syncing.
- Accounts created on or before October 12, 2026 retain free syncing permanently, even across future device purchases.
- A one-month free trial with syncing is included with new devices, after which syncing pauses but existing synced data is not deleted.
Garmin Venu 3 Smartwatch — If Withings is now gating basic data syncing behind a subscription, it might be time to consider a fitness tracker that doesn't paywall your own health data. The Garmin Venu 3 syncs seamlessly with Apple Health, Google Fit, and other third-party apps without extra fees, giving you full ownership of your metrics. It's a great alternative for anyone frustrated by subscription creep in wearables.
See Garmin Venu 3 Smartwatch on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: theverge.com — Andrew Liszewski, 2026-10-15
Published there as: “Withings now charges $100 per year to sync your data to other apps”
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