Pixel Watch Users Can Track Blood Oxygen | Latest Update

Pixel Watch users are elated to discover a crucial functionality that was absent during its initial release.

Prominent smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, Fitbit, and Garmin possess the capability to measure levels of blood oxygen saturation (SpO2). The Google Pixel Watch also incorporates a blood oxygen sensor; however, its functionality remained disabled upon launch. Fortunately, this circumstance seems to be changing presently.

Based on several Reddit posts (as reported by 9to5Google), the SpO2 tracking feature has been activated on certain units of the Pixel Watch. Previously, users were only able to measure estimated oxygen variation (EOV), which provided an indirect estimation of alterations in blood oxygen saturation levels. The Heart Metrics dashboard was used to indicate that the SpO2 feature was unavailable for the watch.

Oxygen saturation represents the proportion of oxygen carried by red blood cells in relation to those that do not transport oxygen. Maintaining an appropriate level of oxygen in the bloodstream is crucial for the body to function optimally. This value is expressed as a percentage, with anything above 92 percent considered normal.

In contrast to EOV, measuring oxygen levels via SpO2 is a more accurate and dependable method. Smartwatches and health trackers achieve this by illuminating the skin with light. In medical settings, a small clip-like device called a pulse oximeter is typically affixed to the fingertip to gauge blood oxygen levels.

The Pixel Watch’s blood oxygen sensor is now being put to effective use, much to the relief of Pixel Watch users who initially encountered its absence during launch.

According to reports from certain Reddit users, a novel Oxygen saturation card has emerged beneath the Sleep score within the Fitbit Today app on their Pixel Watch. This card displays the percentage for the Last sleep session, and further details are provided upon tapping.

The rollout of this feature appears to be gradual, hence the limited number of individuals who have received its functionality. Nevertheless, this development is exceedingly gratifying for owners of the Pixel Watch.

Monitoring blood oxygen saturation levels can aid in assessing sleep quality and identifying conditions such as sleep apnea. Furthermore, during waking hours, it may assist in detecting potential respiratory issues.

It is important to bear in mind that smartwatches cannot replace medical diagnosis and should solely be employed for general well-being and fitness tracking purposes.