Whoop Faces Backlash Over Upgrade Policy Despite Launching New Whoop 5.0 with Advanced Health Features
Whoop, a prominent fitness technology company known for its subscription-based model, is facing consumer outrage after appearing to backtrack on promises of free hardware upgrades. This controversy coincides with the release of the new Whoop 5.0 and Whoop MG, which introduce cutting-edge health features aimed at broadening the brand's appeal.
Initially, Whoop users were led to believe they would receive free hardware updates upon the release of new models, provided they maintained a subscription. A now-deleted blog post even stated that "Whoop members receive the next-generation device for free after having been a member for six months or more." However, the launch of the Whoop 5.0 and MG has changed this, with the company now requiring users to either pay an upgrade fee ($49 to $79) or extend their subscription by 12 months to obtain the newer devices.
This shift in policy has sparked considerable backlash. Customers have taken to social media platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) to express their frustration, with some even accusing Whoop of "extortion." One Reddit user questioned the value of the subscription model if users aren't able to benefit from new device releases without additional costs.
In response to the criticism, Whoop has adjusted its policy for some users. According to a recent tweet, those with more than 12 months remaining on their membership are now eligible for a free upgrade to the Whoop 5.0. Additionally, customers who paid an upgrade fee despite having more than 12 months remaining will receive a refund. For those with less than 12 months remaining, options include extending their membership or paying a one-time upgrade fee.
Despite the controversy, the Whoop 5.0 and Whoop MG represent a significant step forward in health tracking technology. The Whoop 5.0 boasts improvements like a smaller size, longer battery life (up to 14 days), and faster processing speeds. Software updates include a streamlined app design and new health metrics such as Healthspan, which assesses physiological age.
The Whoop MG takes things further with FDA-cleared EKGs to detect atrial fibrillation and enable irregular heart rhythm notifications, along with blood pressure insights. These features aim to provide users with a more comprehensive understanding of their health.
Whoop is also introducing Advanced Labs, an experimental beta program that allows users to schedule blood tests reviewed by clinicians. This feature, while not available at launch and requiring an extra charge, could offer even deeper health insights.
This launch also brings about a tiered subscription model. Whoop One offers basic fitness tracking, Whoop Peak adds features like Healthspan and stress tracking, and Whoop Life includes EKGs, blood pressure insights, and the Whoop MG hardware. This new structure aims to cater to a wider range of users and their specific needs.
The controversy surrounding the upgrade policy highlights the importance of transparency and consistency in subscription models. While Whoop is attempting to balance innovation with customer satisfaction, the initial misstep has clearly damaged its reputation in some corners. Will the new features and tiered subscription model be enough to win back disgruntled customers and attract new ones? What are your thoughts on subscription-based fitness trackers? Share your opinions in the comments below!
