The Jawbone UP app is now available for Android users. Previously available only for iOS users, the $130 fitness bracelet will initially be compatible with 15 Android devices with firmware between 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and 4.2.2 Jelly Bean.
A partial list of the supported Android phones includes the HTC Droid DNA, LG Nexus 4, LG Optimus G, Samsung Galaxy Note 2, Samsung Galaxy S3 and Sony Xperia TL.
Jawbone's UP has had a pretty troubled history. Shortly after releasing the device in late 2011, the company was forced to issue full refunds to any customers unhappy with their orders, which was most of them.
The device suffered from faulty circuit-board capacitors that prevented it from keeping a decent charge, or simply rendered the wristband totally inoperable. At the time, the company's CEO, Hosain Rahman, issued this statement:
"We've found an issue with two specific capacitors in the power system that affects the ability to hold a charge in some of our bands. We're also fixing an issue with syncing related to the band hardware. Typically, these issues surface within the first seven to ten days of use. The glitches are purely performance related and do not pose any safety risk."
The company not only instituted a "no questions asked" refund policy, it even allowed people to keep their wristbands.
In addition to the Android release, the iOS version of the app will add international support for 25 new countries. The UP is also set to debut in Asian and Australian markets next month.
"We are excited to expand the UP community by introducing support for Android, 11 new languages for iOS, and product availability in more than 25 additional countries around the world," said Travis Bogard, Jawbone vice president of product management and strategy, in a statement.
