Technology giant Google scheduled to launch a new feature which will allow users to measure their heart rate and respiratory rate using only the cameras on their smartphones. According to a Google news release, the feature is part of the Google Fit app, uses sensors built into smartphone cameras to track precise movements and color changes to measure one's respiratory rate and pulse, respectively. Users can measure their respiratory rate by placing their head and upper torso in view of the camera and measure their pulse by placing their finger on the camera lens.
“Google Fit will allow you to measure your heart rate and respiratory rate using just your phone’s camera. These features will be available in the Google Fit app for Pixel phones, with plans to expand to more Android devices," said Shwetak Patel, director of Health Technologies, Google Health.
"This technology could be incorporated into prehospital medical devices," Greg Friese, EMS1 editorial director, said. "A camera in the ambulance patient care compartment or cardiac monitor could be programmed to measure respiratory rate and pulse detection technology could be built into the patient cot siderails."
The initial clinical studies have been completed in the development of the upcoming Google Fit feature. The feature will be available first to Pixel phone users, with plans to expand compatibility with more Android devices.
