How to check your pulse with your Pixel phone

You can now use your Pixel phone to check your pulse and respiratory 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 fitness device, they had to go to the Google Play Store and grab apps. While some of these types of apps are free, it’s hard to judge their accuracy, which obviously is extremely important when checking your cardiovascular health. A wellness app can’t help you stay healthy if it gives you bad data. The Pixel’s new features at least seem very reliable; Google says the heart rate monitor is accurate to less than 2%, according to its tests.

The new heart rate and breathing monitors will roll out today for “supported” Pixel devices, but they are also planned for non-Pixel Android devices in the future. Google’s announcement didn’t list specific devices, but it’s likely that all phones from the Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, and 5 lineups will be included.

The new vital 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 of your finger to calculate your heart rate, while the front camera uses facial recognition to count the number of 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. To select “Check your heart rate.”
3. Tap “Following” to browse the on-screen instructions.
4. Allow the Mobile Vitals app to take photos and videos.
5. Place your finger on the rear camera when prompted.
6. Wait while the app takes 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. Tap “Save” to store the results in Google Fit, or “X” to close.

Check your respiratory rate

1. To select “Check your respiratory rate” in the Google Fit app.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to properly configure your camera. You will need to prop the phone up to keep it completely still during the test.
3. Allow the app to record a video when prompted
4. Use the guides to make sure your face and chest are visible, then stand still.
5. The app will measure your breaths as the progress bar fills up.
6. You will see your results when the test is complete. Tap “Save” to store the results in Google Fit, or “X” to close.

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