Pixel Watch 3: Life-Saving Pulse Detection Arrives in the US
Great news for Pixel Watch 3 users in the US! Google has officially begun rolling out the potentially life-saving **loss of pulse detection** feature. This feature, which has already been available in Europe, is designed to automatically check for a pulse and contact emergency services if no pulse is detected.
The feature works by using **advanced algorithms** to passively monitor your pulse once every second. If a pulse isn't detected, the watch activates additional sensors to rule out false positives, such as the watch being removed. Only then will the watch enter an alert phase.
During this initial "Stage 1" alert, the watch will send a **haptic notification** to your wrist asking you to confirm "I'm OK". If you fail to respond, the watch will escalate the alerts with sounds and a countdown before contacting emergency services.
Google emphasizes the importance of this feature, especially in situations where every second counts, such as during a **cardiac arrest**, respiratory arrest, or poisoning. In these scenarios, immediate assistance is crucial, but help isn't always readily available. Google states that a significant number of cardiac arrest-related loss of pulse events occur without witnesses. This feature can help bridge that gap, ensuring that you receive prompt medical attention and potentially preventing long-term damage.
Source: Engadget