How to check the pulse with your Pixel smartphone

You can now use your Pixel smartphone to check your pulse and breathing rate without using a third-party app or fitness device.

Until now, if Android users wanted to check their heart rate or breathing without a smartwatch or wearable fitness, they needed to go to the Google Play Store and pick up some apps. While some of these types of apps are free to use, it’s difficult to judge their accuracy – which, of course, is extremely important when you’re checking your cardiovascular health. A wellness app can’t help you stay healthy if you’re providing bad data. The new features of the Pixel appear to be highly reliable, at least; Google says that the heart rate monitor is need within 2%, according to your tests.

The new heart rate and breathing monitors were launched today for “compatible” Pixel devices, but are also planned for Android devices other than Pixel in the future. The Google ad does not list specific devices, but it is likely that all phones on the Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a and 5 lines are included.

The new vital signs tests appear in the Google Fit app. Both features use your device’s cameras to check your vital signs. Your rear camera will measure the color changes on your finger to calculate your heart rate, while the front camera uses facial recognition to count how many breaths you take. You can also save your results after each test if you want to track your vital signs over time.

Check your heart rate

1. Open Google Fit.
2. Select “Check your heart rate.”
3. Touch “Next” to scroll through the instructions on the screen.
4. Allow the Mobile Vitals app to take photos and record videos.
5. Place your finger on the rear camera when prompted.
6. Wait while the application makes its measurements. You will see the progress bar fill up on the screen.
7. When the test is complete, you will see your heart rate. Touch “Save ” to store the results in Google Fit, or “X” close.

Check your respiratory rate

1. Select “Check your respiratory rate” in the Google Fit app.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen to set up your camera correctly. You will need to support the phone so that it is completely immobile during the test.
3. Allow the app to be allowed to record video when prompted
4. Use the guides to make sure your face and chest are in view, then stay still.
5. The app will measure your breath while the progress bar is being filled.
6. You will see your results when the test is finished. Touch “Save ” to store the results in Google Fit, or “X” close.

Note that these monitors are for occasional testing – you still need a smartwatch or fitness bracelet if you want constant readings.