Last fall, Google introduced the Pixel Watch 3 alongside the new Pixel 9 series, featuring the same sleek design as its predecessors. A standout addition to the Pixel Watch 3 is the innovative Loss of Pulse Detection feature, designed to identify critical health events linked to cardiac failure. Although this capability could not be activated in the US until official approval was received, the Food and Drug Administration has finally authorized Google to enable Loss of Pulse Detection.

Many smartwatches, including the Pixel Watch and the Apple Watch, are equipped with health monitoring sensors that can flag sudden medical issues. These devices can detect atrial fibrillation (AFib), a form of irregular heartbeat that might signify an approaching stroke or heart attack. According to Google, the Loss of Pulse Detection feature extends the capabilities of consumer wearables even further.

Similar to the EKG functionalities that became prevalent in recent years, the Loss of Pulse Detection feature required regulatory clearance. Google successfully secured permission to roll out the Pixel Watch 3 with this feature in several European countries, later expanding availability to 14 nations, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Google has indicated that additional countries will gain access as they receive regulatory approval, with the FDA being notably the first outside of Europe to provide clearance, bringing the total to 15 countries.

The Pixel Watch 3 does not come equipped with any new or specialized sensors for its Loss of Pulse Detection feature; instead, it utilizes existing smartwatch sensors in a novel manner. The watch employs a “multi-path” heart rate sensor that can take readings every second. If the sensor fails to detect a pulse, it typically indicates that the watch has been removed. This determination is made rapidly, with the watch locking itself in about one second—a feature that enhances security but may cause minor inconvenience if the wearer is merely adjusting the watch on their wrist.