Google hosted its highly awaited Made by Google event last night, where it launched the Pixel 9 series, along with other devices. Among the new releases was the Pixel Watch 3, which brings an impressive new feature that could potentially save lives. This smartwatch introduces a first-of-its-kind Loss of Pulse Detection feature. Read along to know all about the Loss of Pulse Detection feature.
The Loss of Pulse Detection feature on Pixel Watch 3 is designed to automatically call emergency services if it detects a drop in pulse rate to zero and you’re unresponsive. The feature uses multiple sensors, AI, and signal-processing algorithms to detect signs of pulselessness. If your pulse drops and the watch detects no movement, it triggers a series of checks to see if you’re okay.
Initially, the Pixel Watch 3 uses its existing Heart Rate sensor, which emits green light to detect a pulse. If the sensor doesn’t find a pulse, the watch activates infrared and red lights for further checks and uses a motion sensor to look for any movement. If the AI algorithm confirms a loss of pulse and you don’t respond to a check-in or move, the watch will escalate the situation with an audio alarm and a countdown.
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If you don’t respond to the countdown, the Pixel Watch 3 smartwatch or phone your watch is connected to automatically places a call to emergency services. It will share your location and inform them that your pulse has dropped to zero, ensuring that help is on the way even when you can’t make the call yourself.
Google emphasized that developing this feature required a thoughtful approach. Due to the rarity and critical nature of such emergencies, they couldn’t test it in real-world scenarios. Instead, they collaborated with cardiologists, used AI, and tested the feature with data from clinical settings. They even partnered with stunt actors to simulate pulselessness and test the watch’s response.
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It’s important to note that the Loss of Pulse Detection feature will be available on Pixel Watch 3 in September in various countries in Europe, including the UK, France, Austria, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland. Google is also working to expand availability to more regions.