How to Enable Step Counting on Android
Check if Google Fit is installed
Most Android phones come with Google Fit pre-installed. If not, download it from the Play Store.
- •Search 'Google Fit' in Play Store
- •It's free to download and use
Open Google Fit and sign in
Launch the app and sign in with your Google account. This syncs your data across devices.
- •Use the same account on all your devices
Grant permissions
Allow Google Fit to access your physical activity. This enables the step counter to work.
- •Enable 'Physical Activity' permission
- •Allow background activity for automatic tracking
Enable step tracking
In Google Fit settings, make sure 'Track your activities' is turned on. Steps will now count automatically.
- •No need to open the app—it tracks in background
Set your daily goal
Tap your profile, then 'Daily goals' to set a step target. Google Fit will track progress toward this goal.
- •10,000 steps is a common goal
- •Start lower if you're just beginning
How Accurate Is Android Step Counting?
Android phones use accelerometers to detect the motion pattern of walking. When your phone is in your pocket, it's typically 90-95% accurate. Here's what affects accuracy:
Best: In your pocket
Hip pocket gives most accurate results
Good: In a bag
Still works, slightly less accurate
Fair: Hand-held
Arm swinging may affect counts
Poor: On a desk
Won't count steps if not moving with you
Using Android Steps with WeMove
WeMove connects to Google Fit to read your step data. Once connected, your steps automatically sync to team challenges.
- 1Set up Google Fit step tracking (steps above)
- 2Download WeMove from the Play Store
- 3Connect WeMove to Google Fit when prompted
- 4Join a team challenge and start walking!
FAQ
Does step counting drain my battery?
Minimal impact—modern Android phones have low-power motion coprocessors that handle step counting efficiently. Expect less than 5% battery drain per day.
Do I need the phone on me at all times?
Yes, your phone needs to be with you (pocket, bag, or armband) to count steps. It won't count steps taken without the phone.
Can I use Samsung Health instead of Google Fit?
Yes! Samsung phones have Samsung Health built in. WeMove can connect to either Google Fit or Samsung Health.
Why are my step counts different from my friend's?
Different phones have different sensors and algorithms. Small variations (5-10%) are normal. Stride length and phone placement also affect counts.