Traveling between time zones or keeping in touch with friends abroad can get confusing. Many users want their Fitbit to display two time zones at once or quickly switch between them. Unfortunately, Fitbit doesn't have a literal 'dual time zone' display like some watches, but it does offer ways to manage and switch time zones easily.
This guide covers everything you need to know about dual time zone use on Fitbit devices, including setup, quick switching, supported models, and practical workarounds for your needs.
Understanding Time Zone Settings on Fitbit
Fitbit's time zone handling relies on syncing your device with the Fitbit app, which draws time data from your phone or the Fitbit website. Most Fitbits do not support showing two time zones on the device screen at the same time, but you can manually set, change, or temporarily adjust your time zone. This is helpful for frequent travelers or anyone coordinating across time zones.
When you travel, your Fitbit usually updates its time automatically after a full sync with your phone. However, if you turn off automatic time zone tracking or your phone doesn't update, you can change the time zone manually in the Fitbit app or Fitbit dashboard online. Understanding this system is key to managing your Fitbit's time when crossing time zones or coordinating with people around the globe.
Which Fitbit Models Support Time Zone Changes?
Nearly all modern Fitbit models, including the Sense, Versa series, Charge series, Luxe, and Inspire series, offer time zone adjustment. Whether you have a smartwatch-style device or a fitness tracker, you can update your time zone through the app, though none display two zones simultaneously on the watch face. Legacy models such as the Fitbit Alta, Flex, and Zip also allow for manual time zone setting, but syncing and app interfaces may differ slightly.
Fitbit devices do not support custom watch faces with dual time zone widgets natively, but some third-party clock faces for the Versa, Versa 2/3, and Sense support additional time zone displays. You'll need to check the Fitbit Gallery for available options. If you want ongoing dual time zone visibility, a compatible smartwatch model and third-party clock face are your best bet.
How to Change Your Fitbit Time Zone
If your Fitbit is showing the wrong time or you want to switch time zones, you can change this through the Fitbit app (on your phone) or the Fitbit web dashboard. Here’s how to do it in the app:
- Open the Fitbit app and tap your profile icon in the top left.
- Scroll down and tap App Settings or Settings.
- Find Time Zone and turn off the 'Set Automatically' toggle.
- Choose your preferred time zone from the list.
- Sync your Fitbit device to apply the changes.
If you use the Fitbit web dashboard (fitbit.com), log in, click the gear/settings icon, find the Personal Info section, and change your time zone there. Don’t forget to sync your device after making any changes, or the new time won’t appear.
Using Third-Party Clock Faces for Dual Time Zones
If you have a Fitbit smartwatch (such as Versa, Versa 2/3, or Sense), you can take advantage of custom clock faces found in the Fitbit Gallery. Some developers have created clock faces that show two time zones. To use these:
- Open the Fitbit app and tap your profile photo.
- Select your device and tap Gallery.
- Browse or search for clock faces with 'dual time', 'world clock', or 'second time zone'.
- Install your preferred option and follow its setup instructions. Many let you configure the second time zone from the app settings.
While these faces can impact battery life and may require occasional updates, they’re the only real way to see two clocks at once. Make sure to read user reviews and follow any specific setup instructions on the face’s detail page.
Tips for Frequent Travelers and Remote Workers
If you travel often or work with colleagues in other time zones, using Fitbit effectively means planning ahead. Always sync your device after arriving in a new country or city to ensure your time zone updates based on your phone’s location. If you want to keep your home time visible, consider using a watch face that supports dual clocks, or set up a world clock on your phone for quick reference alongside your Fitbit.
Some users prefer to leave their Fitbit set to their 'home' time zone to avoid confusion with scheduled reminders or alarms. Remember, alarms are managed based on the time zone set during their creation. If you change time zones, your alarms may go off at unexpected local times unless you reconfigure them after adjusting your time zone.
Troubleshooting Common Time Zone Issues
Sometimes, Fitbits fail to update the time zone automatically. This usually happens if the device hasn’t synced recently or if your phone’s time zone setting is set manually. To fix this, perform a manual sync from the app (pull down on the device screen in the app) and make sure your phone is set to update time zones automatically. If your Fitbit still shows the wrong time, restart both your watch/tracker and your phone, then try syncing again.
If you use a third-party dual time zone clock face and it isn’t displaying the right time, check for updates to the face or reconfigure its settings in the Fitbit Gallery. Some clock faces require you to input the city or GMT offset manually. Double-check your selections to avoid confusion. If nothing works, switch to a different clock face and see if the problem persists.
Limitations and Alternatives to Fitbit Dual Time Zone
Despite demand, Fitbit doesn’t offer built-in, always-on dual time zone display on most models. The main workaround is using a compatible smartwatch and installing a third-party clock face. For trackers without app support, you’ll need to switch time zones manually in the app or web dashboard. This isn’t as convenient as true dual time, but it works for occasional needs.
If you need persistent, at-a-glance dual time zones for travel or business, consider using your phone’s world clock widget or a traditional digital/analog watch with dual time functionality. Fitbit’s focus is mainly fitness tracking, so advanced watch features are limited compared to dedicated travel watches or smartwatches from brands like Garmin, Apple, or Samsung.
Frequently asked questions
Can I display two time zones at once on my Fitbit?
Not natively, but some Fitbit smartwatches support third-party clock faces that show two time zones on the screen.
Why is my Fitbit showing the wrong time after traveling?
Your Fitbit likely hasn't synced yet. Open the app and sync your device, or set the time zone manually in app settings.
Will my alarms and reminders adjust to new time zones?
Alarms and reminders follow the time zone active when they're set. If you change zones, recheck alarm times to avoid errors.
Is there a way to quickly switch between two time zones on Fitbit?
No instant toggle exists. You must change the time zone manually in the app or use a dual time zone clock face if your model supports it.