Fitbit partners with Singapore on public health project

Fitness wearables maker Fitbit has partnered with Singapore’s Health Promotion Board (HPB) on a population-based public health project in support of the country’s Smart Nation initiative.

The collaboration marks the US-based company’s first major integration of a digital health platform in a public health program globally, according to a statement.

The Fitbit Versa / Photo credit: Kārlis Dambrāns

Called “Live Healthy SG,” the initiative was designed specifically to leverage Fitbit’s technology, behavior insights, and analytics to help Singaporeans get healthier through sustained behavior change. It will use the full Fitbit ecosystem of devices and services, including programs, guidance, and individual health coaching that will be offered through its new premium service.

“Participants of this program will benefit from Fitbit’s plans to incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning to encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and better sleep quality,” said HPB’s head exec, Zee Yoong Kang. The program aims to engage people of all ages.

The new premium service is set to launch in select markets this fall. Pre-registration will begin mid-September, with the program officially going live in late October.

When participants sign on to the program, they will go through a consent process where they can indicate whether they agree to share the data they will provide with HPB. According to a statement, the entity will use the data to provide insights and contribute to more effective health programs for Singaporeans.