Fall Detection Finally Rolls Out to Google's Pixel Watch
Google is now rolling out a fall-detection feature to all Pixel Watch users.
Starting today, folks can toggle on the function via Google's Watch Companion or Personal Safety mobile apps. The Google Pixel Watch's built-in motion sensors and on-device machine learning can then identify if the wearer takes a tumble and connect them with help, if necessary.
A modern version of medical alert systems, a smartwatch with fall detection can be stylish, and potentially stigma-free, way to monitor those at risk of falls.
When a slip, trip, or fall is detected, and 30 seconds pass without movement, the device vibrates, sounds an alarm, and displays an on-screen notification to see if you need help. If you're able, tap "I'm OK" on the watch face, or "I fell and need help" to be connected to emergency services.
Assuming neither of those options are feasible, the alarm continues for about a minute, getting louder in the final seconds. If you still haven't responded, the watch automatically attempts to call emergency services and plays an automated message requesting help to your location.
"This feature has been extensively tested to ensure your Pixel Watch knows the difference between taking a hard fall and performing a vigorous physical activity, or even quickly recovering from a small stumble," Google says. "So you don't have to worry about burpees causing an accidental emergency call."
That's likely a reference to Apple, which has fall detection on the Apple Watch, as well as crash detection on newer watches and its iPhone 14 lineup. This has reportedly resulted in a surge of 911 calls from people who have taken a tumble on ski slopes in places like Colorado and Idaho. Others have reported their iPhone 14 calling 911 while they were
Read more on pcmag.com
