IFTTT adds Fitbit channel, Kik messenger for Apple's iOS gains 'new people' section

Popular web automation service If This, Then That now allows users to perform tasks based on data from a Fitbit activity tracker, while a new version of Kik messenger makes it easier to manage conversations and media content.

IFTTT + Fitbit

IFTTT's new Fitbit channel is one of a growing number of collaborations that let users connect web services with physical devices. Users have access to their Fitbit-tracked goals, activity, sleep, and weight through IFTTT.

Users could, for instance, receive an iOS push notification if they have not met their daily activity goal by a specific time. Interaction might go the other way as well, such as logging weight to Fitbit's tracking service via SMS.

The partnership with IFTTT is one of Fitbit's first public moves since it was forced to issue a recall for its Force tracker in February. Many users had reported skin irritation as a result of wearing the device, though AppleInsider had no such issue during our December review.

Kik

One of the most popular third-party messaging services in the world, Kik now gives users a separate section to manage messages from new people. The new section — combined with a feature that blurs pictures and content from new contacts — acts as a sort of screening area to prevent spam-like messages from reaching the inbox.

In addition, users can now be blocked and reported as abusive directly from the conversation. For more friendly encounters, stickers are now easier to send.

Kik version 7.2.0 is available now as a free, 10.4-megabyte download from the App Store.