Fitbit - is it an effective random number generator?

[stockhausen]

I own neither a "Fitbit" nor an iPhone so I am not affected by this silliness. However, I was asked by a colleague if I had any idea why the distance and steps reported by a Fitbit and an iPhone differ so wildly and whether any of the reported data is anywhere near accurate.

When comparing steps walked, the Fitbit reports an average of 30% more than an iPhone (Range +16% to +31%)

When comparing distance walked, the Fitbit reports an average of 75% more than an iPhone (Range +56% to +87%)

Any explanation?
Any experience?

 

[stockhausen]

Some good answers (and quite a few "predictable" ones).

We are out for a team lunch tomorrow. I own two GPS devices, I will take them both with me. One of the other guys also owns a GPS. We will go for a "wander" around town and see how all five devices compare - on distance only.

I know that my GPS devices differ but not to that extent - they completely lose the plot if I go into a Pub at lunch time . . . or in fact, any time.

 

[stockhausen]

I thought the point of fitbit was to get you to spend more time exercising rather than it having any real claim to accuracy?

I don't think so, I think that the point of Fitbit is to make money out of gullible people who would otherwise spend money on Love Hearts in the belief that they are actually Ecstasy or LSD.