Google Pixel Watch gets lifeguard fall detection feature: all the details here
When Google launched its Pixel Watch in October last year, the reception was mixed. While some issues such as poorer battery life and random errors were to blame, the lack of safety features such as fall detection also contributed significantly. However, the company has now released the fall detection update much earlier than expected. Although Google previously announced a winter 2023 rollout, it has kept its promise and made the feature available to users – bringing the Pixel Watch in line with Apple and Samsung’s offerings.
Like popular smartwatches from Apple and Samsung, the Pixel Watch uses motion sensors to detect if the user has had a hard fall. The fall detection feature is based on the device’s machine learning and these motion sensors determining whether a fall has occurred. If the watch detects that the user has not moved or reacted within a certain time after the fall, it will automatically call the emergency center.
“If you take a hard fall and the watch detects that you haven’t moved for about 30 seconds, it will vibrate, sound an alarm, and display a notification on the screen to check on you. If you can, either tap ‘I’m fine’ on your watch face to dismiss the notification or tap ‘I’m falling and need help’ to get in touch to emergency services immediately,” Google claimed in a blog post.
After the first alarm, the alarm volume gradually increases until it reaches its loudest level in the last few seconds. And if there’s still no answer – the Pixel Watch will automatically call emergency services and send an automated message asking for help at your location. In addition, you can also speak directly to the emergency center and tell them about your situation and if you need help.
Google claims that the company has paid a lot of attention to preventing false triggers. So the Pixel Watch can distinguish between hard drops, minor stumbles, and when you’re just doing a demanding activity like lifting or skiing. “We tested this process using a wide variety of human and simulated fall data and other motion patterns to accurately detect real falls and minimize potential false alarms,” Google claims.
However, the feature is optional, so Google gives you the option to turn it off. To enable it, go to the Updates page in the Watch Companion app or directly on the Pixel Watch in the Personal Safety app.
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