There are unofficial approaches to sideloading apps on the Fitbit Versa 4, but these methods are not officially supported by Fitbit. One such approach involves using an unofficial drop-in package for `@fitbit/sdk-build-targets` and enabling certain environment flags like `FITBIT_QA_COMMANDS` to facilitate sideloading. This method is primarily for educational purposes and should be used at one's own risk[1].
On platforms like GitHub, developers have shared their experiences and code for sideloading apps on the Versa 4. For example, a repository provides an unofficial approach to building and sideloading third-party applications for the Fitbit Versa 4 and Sense 2 devices[1]. However, there is limited information on the extent of functionality achievable through these methods.
In forums and communities, users have expressed interest in sideloading apps due to the limited availability of official apps for the Versa 4. Some users have managed to sideload apps but are still exploring the full capabilities of these unofficial methods[4][7]. Despite these efforts, there is no widespread or officially recognized success in sideloading a wide range of apps on the Fitbit Versa 4.
In summary, while there are attempts and some reported successes in sideloading apps on the Fitbit Versa 4, these are largely experimental and not widely documented or supported. The community continues to explore these possibilities, but official app development remains limited.
Citations:[1] https://github.com/cmengler/fitbit-app-versa4
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MC_4AQKfc1w
[3] https://cerre.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CERRE.BOOK_.DMA_.17JAN.pdf
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/fitbit/comments/151cx3p/versa_4sense_2_sideloading_via_api_anyone_done_it/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Aa_70SusG0
[6] https://cand.uscourts.gov/wp-content/uploads/cases-of-interest/epic-games-v-apple/Epic-Games-20-cv-05640-YGR-Dkt-410-Apple-Proposed-Findings-of-Facts-and-Conclusions-of-Law.pdf
[7] https://community.fitbit.com/t5/SDK-Development/Unofficial-approach-to-sideload-app-on-Versa-4/td-p/5338575
[8] https://support.google.com/fitbit/answer/14237121?hl=en
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwRdxKvZin0