Google Pixel Watch 3's Loss of Pulse Detection could save your life – here's how the company created it

Google Pixel Watch 3's Loss of Pulse Detection could save your life – here's how the company created it

  • 21.03.2025 11:02
  • techradar.com
  • Keywords: Cardiac arrest, Heart stoppage

Google's Pixel Watch 3 uses photoplethysmography and accelerometer data for Loss of Pulse Detection, alerting emergency services during cardiac arrest to save lives. The feature minimizes false positives and is available in the U.S. and several European countries.

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Google

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Developed the Loss of Pulse Detection feature in their Pixel Watch 3, which can alert emergency services and bystanders during a cardiac arrest. Google partnered with medical experts to ensure accuracy and minimize false positives.

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Published an article about Google's Pixel Watch 3 and its Loss of Pulse Detection feature.

Context

Analysis of Google Pixel Watch 3's Loss of Pulse Detection Feature

Overview

  • Product: Google Pixel Watch 3
  • Feature: Loss of Pulse Detection (LOPD)
  • Availability: Launched in the US after FDA clearance in February
  • Key Benefit: Detects cardiac arrest and triggers emergency alerts

Technical Details

  • Algorithm:

    • Uses photoplethysmography (PPG) to measure blood volume changes via light.
    • Combines PPG with accelerometer data for detection.
    • Multiple "gates" ensure accuracy, minimizing false positives.

  • Development:

    • Partnered with cardiac electrophysiologists and patients.
    • Tested using planned temporary heart stoppages from implanted devices.

  • Design Considerations:

    • Optimized for battery life by leveraging existing sensors.
    • Ensures compatibility across different skin tones.

Business Insights

  • Market Positioning:

    • Strengthens Google's position in the health-focused smartwatch market.
    • Differentiates Pixel Watch 3 from competitors like Apple and Samsung, which lack similar features.

  • Competitive Landscape:

    • Competitors (e.g., Apple with ECG) focus on general health monitoring, while Google targets rare but critical events.
    • Potential to attract health-conscious consumers and medical professionals.

Market Implications

  • Consumer Demand:

    • Appeals to users prioritizing emergency response features.
    • Could drive higher adoption rates among individuals at risk of cardiac events.

  • Regulatory Impact:

    • FDA clearance enhances credibility and trust in the feature.
    • May influence regulatory standards for health monitoring devices.

Strategic Considerations

  • Potential Expansion:

    • Feature could expand to other regions beyond the US and Europe.
    • Integration with Google's ecosystem (e.g., Nest, Google Assistant) may enhance emergency response capabilities.

  • Long-Term Effects:

    • Sets a precedent for smartwatch innovation in critical health monitoring.
    • May prompt competitors to adopt similar technologies, raising the bar in the industry.

Challenges and Risks

  • False Positives:

    • Risk of over-alerting due to technical limitations (e.g., watch removal).
    • Potential legal/liability issues if false positives occur.

  • Adoption Barriers:

    • Limited availability outside the US may hinder global market penetration.
    • High price point could restrict accessibility for some consumers.

Conclusion

Google's Loss of Pulse Detection feature in the Pixel Watch 3 represents a significant leap in smartwatch technology, with profound implications for public health and competition in the wearable device market. Its success could redefine emergency response capabilities in wearables and influence future regulatory and technological developments.