Google has revealed that it has obtained FDA clearance for the Pixel Watch 3’s “Loss of Pulse Detection” feature, with a scheduled launch in the United States by the end of March.

This feature is capable of detecting when a user’s heartbeat ceases due to a cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, circulatory failure, overdose, or poisoning. If the watch detects a loss of pulse, it will prompt the user to respond. If the user remains unresponsive, the watch will automatically contact emergency services, potentially saving a life.

The Loss of Pulse Detection feature was initially introduced in the European Union in September 2024 and is currently available in 14 countries.

When Google initially unveiled the feature at the previous year’s Made By Google event, the company explained that the watch identifies a loss of pulse event by analyzing not only the user’s pulse but also other physiological and motion data, which are then integrated through a sophisticated AI-driven algorithm.

Google emphasizes that “Loss of Pulse Detection may not identify every instance of a loss of pulse and is not designed for users with pre-existing heart conditions or those who require cardiac monitoring. It does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, nor does it provide follow-up care. The emergency calling function relies on factors such as the phone or watch being charged and having adequate cellular connectivity.”

This new feature complements the Pixel Watch’s existing safety and health features, including Car Crash Detection, Fall Detection, Irregular Heart Rhythm Notifications, and the ECG app.