Pulse Detection on Google Pixel Watch 3 Cleared for US | Technology Headlines

 From CNET

Google has received clearance from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for its latest safety feature on the Pixel Watch 3 – Loss of Pulse Detection. This innovative feature can detect when your pulse is lost and automatically call emergency services if you're unresponsive. It's a first-of-its-kind capability that's not available on other smartwatches.

Google first announced the Loss of Pulse Detection feature back in 2024, initially launching it in select European countries. Since then, it has become available in a total of 14 countries. Now that Google has received the green light from the FDA, they can bring this opt-in feature to the US market as well. Customers can expect to see the Loss of Pulse Detection functionality start rolling out on Pixel Watches in the US by the end of March.

This new safety enhancement from Google is designed to provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for Pixel Watch users. By quickly detecting and responding to a loss of pulse, it has the potential to save lives in emergency situations.

The Pixel 3 watch uses an AI-based algorithm and signals from the existing multipath heart rate sensor (the flashing green light on the back) to monitor your pulse. If it suspects your pulse was lost, it will activate additional sensors to search for your pulse or identify movement.

When no pulse or motion is detected, the watch will prompt you with an initial check-in message. If you don't respond and no motion is detected, a loud alarm will sound and a countdown will appear on the screen. The watch will then place an emergency call, sharing an automated message about the loss of pulse and your location with emergency operators.

While the Loss of Pulse Detection feature wasn't made for a specific health condition, it's another impressive safety and health feature added to the Pixel 3, joining fall detection and irregular heart rhythm notifications. As a Pixel user, I'm glad to see this potentially life-saving addition to the watch's medical capabilities.