How to Use Loss of Pulse Detection on the Pixel Watch 3

The Google Pixel Watch 3 introduces a cutting-edge health and safety feature called Loss of Pulse Detection. This innovation leverages biometric monitoring to detect when a user’s pulse stops and, if no response is received, automatically contacts emergency services. The feature underscores Google’s commitment to transforming its smartwatch from a fitness companion into a potentially life-saving device.

This guide explains what the feature is, how it works, how to set it up, and what to keep in mind when using it.

1. What Is Loss of Pulse Detection?

Loss of Pulse Detection is a health monitoring feature exclusive to the Pixel Watch 3. It uses advanced optical sensors and machine learning algorithms to continuously monitor your pulse when the watch is worn on your wrist.

If the watch detects an absence of pulse and no motion or user interaction within a specific time frame, it triggers an automatic emergency response protocol. This includes vibrating the watch, sounding a loud alert, and contacting emergency services—providing them with your location to facilitate faster assistance.

This feature builds on Google’s existing health toolkit, which includes fall detection, emergency SOS, and heart rate tracking, by offering a more advanced and reactive health monitoring system.

2. How the Feature Works

The Loss of Pulse Detection system is designed to activate under extreme circumstances—primarily when the watch cannot detect a heartbeat and the user does not respond.

Here’s how the logic flow works:

• Initial Detection: The watch identifies a loss of pulse using its sensor suite.
• User Prompt: A prompt appears on the screen asking, “Are you OK?”, while the device gently vibrates.
• Countdown Phase:
  
  • If no motion or interaction occurs in 15 seconds, the watch plays a loud alert to get attention.
  • A 20-second countdown begins, during which the user can still cancel the alert.
• Automatic Emergency Call: If there’s still no response, the watch places an emergency call and transmits the user’s location.

This system ensures multiple fail-safes to reduce false alarms while prioritizing urgent response for critical health incidents.

3. Requirements Before Setup

Before you can activate the Loss of Pulse Detection feature, your device and applications must meet the following requirements:

Device Requirements

• A Google Pixel Watch 3 (Wi-Fi or LTE version)
• Wear OS 5.1 or higher

App Requirements

• Pixel Watch App on your smartphone, fully updated
• Personal Safety App, version 2025.03.19.x or newer

User Requirements

• Must be 22 years of age or older
• Must not be classified as high-risk for sudden cardiac arrest (the feature is not intended for those with known heart conditions)

If any of these conditions are not met, the feature may not be available or could be limited in functionality.

4. How to Enable Loss of Pulse Detection

Once your device and apps are up to date, follow these steps to activate the feature:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Pixel Watch App on your smartphone.
2. Go to “Safety & Emergency” in the settings menu.
3. Tap “Loss of Pulse Detection.”
4. Click “Set Up” to begin the setup process.
5. Enter your date of birth to confirm eligibility (must be 22+).
6. Answer whether you are classified as high-risk.
7. Read the information provided about how the feature works and how your data is used.
8. Tap “Continue” after reviewing the terms.
9. On the final screen labeled “Things to remember,” tap “Turn On” to activate.

Once completed, your Pixel Watch 3 will monitor your pulse in the background and act only in emergencies.

5. Emergency Response Process Explained

Here’s a closer look at what happens during an emergency:

Stage 1: Pulse Loss Detected

• The watch begins tracking signs of responsiveness (movement, button press, touch).

Stage 2: Vibration + On-screen Prompt

• You’ll receive a subtle vibration and a message on the screen asking if you’re okay.

Stage 3: Loud Alert + Countdown

• After 15 seconds of no response, a loud sound is triggered.
• A 20-second on-screen countdown begins.
• During this time, the emergency alert can still be canceled.

Stage 4: Emergency Call Initiated

• If no action is taken, the watch will:
  
  • Automatically place a call to emergency services
  • Send them your real-time location
  • Inform them that a loss of pulse was detected

For LTE models, the watch can call independently. For Wi-Fi models, the paired smartphone must be nearby and connected.

6. Device and Region Compatibility

Device Compatibility

• Available only on the Google Pixel Watch 3
• Not supported on earlier Pixel Watch models or non-Pixel smartwatches

Regional Availability

As of April 2025, Loss of Pulse Detection is supported in the following countries:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Austria
• Belgium
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Ireland
• Italy
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Portugal
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

Network Requirements

• LTE Models: Can operate independently to call emergency services
• Wi-Fi Models: Require a paired smartphone to complete the emergency call

7. Limitations and Safety Considerations

Though this feature can be life-saving, there are several important limitations to note:

Not a Medical Device

• The Pixel Watch 3 is not a substitute for certified medical equipment or professional monitoring systems.
• It should not be relied upon for managing diagnosed heart conditions or emergencies requiring guaranteed response accuracy.

High-Risk Users

• The feature is not intended for those who are classified as high-risk for sudden cardiac events.
• Users with preexisting conditions should consult a medical professional before relying on this technology.

False Positives

• Although the detection system is robust, there may still be occasional false alarms or detection errors, especially in cases of sensor misplacement or motionless rest.

Data Usage

• To function, the feature requires you to be signed into your Google Account via the Personal Safety App.
• Location data and alert details are shared only in emergencies and handled according to Google’s privacy standards.

8. Summary: Should You Enable It?

Loss of Pulse Detection adds a powerful layer of safety to your daily life. Whether you're out running alone, sleeping, or living with a chronic condition but not classified as high-risk, this feature can offer peace of mind. While it’s not meant to replace medical-grade devices, it could play a crucial role in responding to unexpected health emergencies.

If you own a Pixel Watch 3, meet the eligibility criteria, and live in a supported region, enabling this feature is a smart way to enhance your personal safety.

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