FDA Clears Google Pixel Watch 3 Loss of Pulse Detection Feature

Google received clearance from the US FDA for its Loss of Pulse Detection feature starting with the company's Pixel Watch 3, allowing the smartwatch to detect when a user’s heart has stopped beating and alert emergency services, the company announced on Wednesday.1

The feature, which has been available in Europe since the device’s launch in 2024, had been disabled in the US pending regulatory approval. Google stated that rollout in the US is expected to begin at the end of March 2025.1

Loss of Pulse Detection uses the device’s optical heart rate sensor to identify signs of pulselessness, employing infrared and red light sensors for further confirmation. If no pulse is detected, an artificial intelligence algorithm assesses movement signals before triggering a check-in prompt. If the user does not respond, an audio alarm and countdown are activated, followed by an automatic call to emergency services providing the user’s location.2

“Many loss of pulse incidents happen when the person is alone, leaving them with effectively no chance of receiving resuscitation,” Google said in an August 2024 press statement. “Loss of Pulse Detection on Pixel Watch 3 can detect loss of pulse and automatically place a call to emergency services, potentially saving lives.”2

The approval allows Google’s smartwatch to offer a feature not currently available on the Apple Watch, which provides notifications for high or low heart rates and includes fall detection. Other health and safety tools on the Pixel Watch 3 include irregular heart rhythm notifications for atrial fibrillation detection, a Safety Check app for location-sharing in unsafe situations, and fall and car crash detection.2

Google stated that the feature is not intended for individuals with preexisting heart conditions or those requiring continuous cardiac monitoring.2

References:

1. Edward Shi. Loss of Pulse Detection has received U.S. FDA clearance, and is now available on Pixel Watch 3. Google press release. February 26, 2025. Accessed February 28, 2025. https://blog.google/feed/pixel-watch-3-loss-of-pulse-detection-fda/

2. Rudrapatna P, Gadh T. Loss of Pulse Detection: A first-of-its-kind feature on Pixel Watch 3. Google Web site. Updated February 26, 2025. Accessed February 28, 2025. https://blog.google/products/pixel/pixel-watch-3-loss-of-pulse-detection/