Subj : Google update adds a handy health feature to the Pixel 8 Pro
To   : All
From : TechnologyDaily
Date : Thu Jan 25 2024 18:00:05

Google update adds a handy health feature to the Pixel 8 Pro

Date:
Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:55:55 +0000

Description:
The Google Pixel 8 Pro can now measure body temperature following the latest 
update.

FULL STORY
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The Google Pixel 8 Pro is now able to measure body temperature. Previously 
the phones temperature sensor was only able to scan objects while Google 
awaited FDA approval for the body temperature functionality  that approval 
has now been granted.



The sensor was one of the features touted at the Pixel 8 Pros announcement 
back in October. But at the phone's launch, the sensor could only take the 
temperature of objects not humans. Now, body temperature measurement is one 
of the new updates included in the latest feature drop, with Google referring 
to it as a medical-grade feature.



Users can scan their foreheads using the pre-installed thermometer app, and 
the temperature data will then be saved to their Fitbit profile, adding an 
extra layer of information for health-conscious users. Just bear in mind the 
feature is only available on the Pixel 8 Pro. The update is being rolled out 
now, but it may be a few weeks before the update lands on your phone. (Image 
credit: Google) 

The Pixel 8 Pro is believed to use the Melexis MLX90632 temperature sensor, 
and Google states it can detect heat of up to 392F / 200C or as cold as -4F / 
-20C by measuring the infrared radiation emitted by the subject. 

According to a Reddit user , the thermal infrared sensor may also have some 
difficulty reading from shiny or reflective surfaces, or in high humidity, 
and could receive interference from other sources that may confuse the 
sensor, unless Google has taken specific steps to overcome these problems 
since the Pixel 8 Pro's release. 

This is the first time Google has included a temperature sensor in its Pixel 
line-up. Google claims the feature has many practical applications , 
including baby feeding, checking on pets, checking bath temperature, scanning 
overheating devices, and seeing if cooked food has cooled.



Time will tell whether the temperature sensor proves to be a valuable health 
tool or a gimmick  and whether we see its widespread adoption in other 
devices, or it ends up heading to the Google graveyard . You may also like 
Google Pixel 9: latest news, rumors and everything we know so far Google 
Pixel 8a packaging leak points to a potential design change Google's new 
update could be breaking Pixel phones again  here's what you need to know



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Link to news story:
https://www.techradar.com/phones/google-update-adds-a-handy-health-feature-to-
the-pixel-8-pro


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