Google Launches Hypertension Study Using Pixel Watch 3
Google is recruiting participants for a new research study, the Hypertension Study Lab, utilizing the Pixel Watch 3 to gather data related to high blood pressure, a condition affecting nearly half of U.S. adults.
The study aims to explore how smartwatch data can potentially identify early indicators of hypertension, and “could one day help users take proactive steps toward better heart health,” according to Google. Currently, the research is open to 10,000 U.S.-based Pixel Watch 3 (45mm LTE) owners aged 22 and older. Some participants will be provided with an ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) cuff to wear for a 24-hour period as part of the six-month study.
Participants should note that the study will not provide individual health analysis or feedback, and may temporarily impact the Pixel Watch 3’s battery life. Interested individuals can enroll through the Fitbit app by navigating to You > Fitbit Labs > See all; however, the questionnaire may not be visible to all users immediately. For more information on hypertension and its impact, resources are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Google has been increasingly focused on health tracking features within its Wear OS ecosystem. Only those selected to participate will be contacted by Google, with no confirmed timeline yet available for study commencement or participant notification.
Google is currently recruiting for a new Hypertension Study Lab. The research study is available for a limited number of Pixel Watch users, with the feature aiming to help users spot early signs of hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. The company states that this research “could one day help users take proactive steps toward better heart health.”
US-based users of the Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm LTE curr. $349.99 at Amazon), who are 22 years of age or older, are eligible to join the trial. Google is looking for 10,000 people to take part in its six month research project. Some participants will be sent an ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) cuff, which they will be required to wear for 24 hours as part of the experiment.
During the Hypertension Study, it seems that users will not be provided with analysis or feedback on their health. It is also worth noting that Google indicates that users may temporarily experience a decrease in the smartwatch’s battery life. If you want to sign up for the Fitbit Hypertension Study Lab, you can do so via the Fitbit app. Go to You > Fitbit Labs > See all; the Fitbit Hypertension Study Lab questionnaire may not appear if it is not yet available for your account. Only successful applicants will hear back from Google, though it is unclear when that may be or when the study is expected to begin.
I’ve been interested in technology for as long as I can remember. From a young age, I have loved gadgets and understanding how things work. Since graduating, I have worked for several technology companies across FinTech, AdTech and Robotics.
