Despite Google announcing a new Pixel Watch this month, the response has been pretty tepid, mainly because not much has changed from the previous version. Sure, if you’re diving into the genre for the first time, the Pixel Watch 4 is a compelling option, but if you’re upgrading from the previous model, there’s not much to look forward to.
Luckily, it looks like Google is working on things behind the scenes in order to make its watches more compelling. A new report from 9to5Google shares that Google may be looking to introduce “hypertension screening with the Pixel Watch.” It’s important to note that this is still very early in the process, with information extracted from the code of Fitbit version 4.53 for Android.
Something new for the future
The code shows that at some point, Google will be looking to collect data from willing participants for its “Fitbit Hypertension Study.” This data will come from the Pixel Watch, while others will also be required to strap on a blood pressure monitor during the experience.
As far as compensation goes, according to 9to5Google, Google will offer $50 for participation and return of the blood pressure monitoring device. Again, this isn’t something that’s active at this point, and is just something found in the code of the latest Fitbit app for Android.
So don’t go hunting for this feature quite yet, because none of the current Pixel Watches have this feature right now. This could be a pretty big deal if it comes to fruition, because it isn’t all that common to see on Wear OS devices.
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch can take measurements, but you will need a separate device to take initial readings and also perform calibrations. So, while you can get it to work, it’s not all that convenient.
Although the Pixel Watch is a pretty complete device at this point, people have been wanting more from their wearables for some time now. If Google is able to get this in place, the Pixel Watch could offer something new for Wear OS users.
But we’ll have to wait and see just how this feature manifests in the future. While Google can get its part done, there’s also regulatory bodies that need to verify whether it is appropriate to release and advertise. Of course, when it comes out, we’ll be sure to report it.
