Strava, a popular fitness tracking platform, has announced significant changes to its API agreement, restricting the data that third-party apps can access and display. The updated terms, effective November 11, aim to provide users with greater control, security, and a consistent experience.

The new policy prohibits third-party apps from using Strava user data for artificial intelligence model training or similar applications. Additionally, third-party apps may only display a user's Strava activity data to that specific user, and are not allowed to replicate Strava's look and feel.

The move has sparked concerns among developers and users, with some apps, such as VeloViewer and Final Surge, needing to find alternative ways to provide features that Strava's users have come to expect. Strava, however, claims that the changes will only affect a small fraction (less than 0.1%) of applications on its platform.

The company's decision to limit data sharing and prohibit AI model training is seen as a move to prioritize user control and security, as well as to protect its own unique features and functionality. The changes come as Strava is beta testing its AI-generated "Athlete Intelligence" summaries, which have been met with mixed reviews.