To take an ECG on a Google Pixel Watch, install the Google ECG app from the watch’s Play Store, complete setup in the Google Health phone app, then sit still and follow the watch’s instructions while touching the crown for the 30-second reading. The result is a rhythm assessment, not a diagnosis; availability depends on your watch model and country.
Google’s help pages are the source for the setup and eligibility details below: Google Health: What is the Google ECG app? and Google Pixel Watch Help: Track your health, heart rate and ECG.
Check that ECG is available to you
Google lists Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3, Pixel Watch 4, and Pixel Watch 5 as compatible with the Google ECG app. The feature is intended for people aged 22 and older and is available only in supported countries. Japan is listed as an exception for the original Pixel Watch. Check Google’s current country list before relying on ECG availability, since it may change.
| Check | Google’s stated requirement |
|---|---|
| Watch | Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3, Pixel Watch 4, or Pixel Watch 5 |
| Age | 22 or older |
| Location | A country where the Google ECG app is available; Japan excludes the original Pixel Watch |
| Phone app and syncing | Google Health set up on the phone; the watch needs LTE or Wi-Fi to sync results to the phone |
Google says unsupported locations produce an error and that more locations may be added as regulatory clearance is obtained. See the Google ECG help page for the current supported models and countries.
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#1 Best Overall
- The new Google Pixel Watch 5 offers a smarter way to a healthier you.[1,2]; Designed for Gemini Intelligence, get proactive help, and personalized insights from Google Health[3,4]; watch is compatible with Android devices only; not compatible with iOS devices
- Precision-crafted to do it all: The Google Pixel Watch 5 features the domed Actua 360 display with scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass and up to 40 hours of battery life[1,5]
- Metrics that matter: Advanced sensors help you stay ahead of your health and wellness; and Google Pixel’s most accurate heart rate tracking is fine-tuned for your activity[6,7]
- Understand your sleep like never before: Your watch captures insights like the time spent in sleep stages to breathing regularity, then summarizes it all in a personalized Sleep Score[8,9]
- Detects loss of pulse, then calls for help: Pixel Watch 5 is the only smartwatch to feature Loss of Pulse Detection, which can prompt a call to emergency services[10]
Set up the Google ECG app
- On the Pixel Watch, open the Play Store, search for Google ECG, and install it. If you install from the phone’s Play Store, select the watch as the device.
- Open ECG on the watch. If prompted, install and sign in to Google Health on your phone. Google notes that Google Health was previously called the Fitbit app, so older instructions or screens may still use that name.
- In Google Health on your phone, tap Health, then ECG under Health checks. Tap Get started and follow the setup instructions.
How to take an ECG on Google Pixel Watch
- Wear the watch snugly but comfortably, about a finger’s width above your wrist bone, with its back resting securely against your skin.
- Sit down and open ECG on the watch. Follow the on-screen instructions to start the assessment.
- Place a finger on the crown as shown on the display. Rest your forearms and wrists on a solid surface, keep your feet on the floor, and avoid touching other parts of the watch or wrist.
- Stay still, breathe regularly, and maintain steady contact until the 30-second countdown finishes.
- Review the result on the watch. To see past readings in Google Health, tap Health in the phone app. The watch needs LTE or Wi-Fi to sync ECG data to the phone.
What the results mean
| Result | What Google says it means |
|---|---|
| Normal sinus rhythm | The app says your heart rhythm appears normal during the assessment. |
| Atrial fibrillation (AFib) | The app found signs of AFib. Contact a doctor; only a doctor can diagnose AFib. |
| Inconclusive | The app could not get a usable reading or classify the rhythm confidently. |
An inconclusive result can occur if your heart rate is below 50 bpm or above 120 bpm, or if the signal is inadequate. Google also lists movement, loose fit, poor contact, uneven or strenuous breathing, using a different wrist than the one selected, and nearby electronics as possible causes. Recent exercise, sweat or water, dry skin, or electrodes that have not warmed to skin temperature can affect signal quality.
If a reading is inconclusive, sit calmly, rest your arms, check the fit and skin contact, hold your finger steadily on the crown, and try again. If readings remain inconclusive or you feel unwell, contact a healthcare provider.
Rank #2
- The new Google Pixel Watch 5 offers a smarter way to a healthier you.[1,2]; Designed for Gemini Intelligence, get proactive help, and personalized insights from Google Health[3,4]; watch is compatible with Android devices only; not compatible with iOS devices
- Precision-crafted to do it all: The Google Pixel Watch 5 features the domed Actua 360 display with scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass and up to 40 hours of battery life[1,5]
- Metrics that matter: Advanced sensors help you stay ahead of your health and wellness; and Google Pixel’s most accurate heart rate tracking is fine-tuned for your activity[6,7]
- Understand your sleep like never before: Your watch captures insights like the time spent in sleep stages to breathing regularity, then summarizes it all in a personalized Sleep Score[8,9]
- Detects loss of pulse, then calls for help: Pixel Watch 5 is the only smartwatch to feature Loss of Pulse Detection, which can prompt a call to emergency services[10]
What the Pixel Watch ECG can and cannot do
The Google ECG app is qualitatively similar to a Lead I ECG and can help distinguish signs of AFib from normal sinus rhythm. It cannot detect all heart conditions, and a normal result is not general clearance of your heart health. A 12-lead ECG in a doctor’s office provides electrical information from 12 different angles, unlike the watch’s single-lead assessment.
Google reports a study of 440 people in which each participant completed a 30-second 12-lead ECG while using the Google ECG app. In that study, the app’s software algorithm correctly identified 98.7% of participants with AFib and 100% of those with normal sinus rhythm. These are study-specific results, not a guarantee of an individual reading or a universal real-world accuracy rate. Google’s help page does not state the study’s publication year.
Rank #3
- The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning display of precision craftsmanship, with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, Google’s longest-lasting battery, and comprehensive tools for next-level health and fitness performance[1,2,3,4]
- See it all and do the most with the Actua 360 domed display; it’s 10% larger and 50% brighter than Pixel Watch 3, and as durable as ever with scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass[1]
- The Google Pixel Watch 4 has Gemini built in[4]; just ask questions and your ultra capable AI assistant will deliver quick responses for personalized help; and stay connected when you’re texting with AI-powered quick replies that are hyper-relevant[5,6]
- Get up to 30 hours of battery life or up to 48 hours in Battery Saver mode[3]; plus, the new side charging dock gives you 15 hours of battery in 15 minutes or less[7]
- Train smarter with 40+ exercise modes and real-time stats on your wrist[8]; and with high-precision dual-frequency GPS, you get more accurate route tracking on runs and hikes[1]
Safety and implanted medical devices
The ECG assessment is not a diagnosis, and only a doctor can diagnose AFib. Do not use a watch result to rule out a heart problem or delay care if you feel unwell. Google also warns that the Pixel Watch emits electromagnetic fields and contains magnets that may interfere with pacemakers and other implanted medical devices. Keep the watch and charger at a safe distance from an implanted device and ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about using the watch.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.FAQ
How do I install the Google ECG app?
Open the Play Store on your Pixel Watch, search for Google ECG, and install it. Open the app and follow its prompts to set up Google Health on your phone and complete ECG setup under Health and Health checks.
Rank #4
- Google Pixel Watch has a beautiful circular, domed design and new experience with Wear OS by Google, so it’s easy to get help at a glance
- Stay on top of activity, calories burned, and more with Fitbit activity tracking
- Track your heart rate and get insight into your sleep
- Save time with things like Google Wallet for contactless payments, turn-by-turn directions using Maps, and event notifications from Calendar
- Stay connected and productive wherever you go; respond to messages, manage your inbox, and make calls right from your wrist
Why did I receive an inconclusive result?
The app may not have captured a usable signal, or your heart rate may have been below 50 bpm or above 120 bpm. Movement, poor contact, a loose fit, breathing irregularly, using the other wrist, nearby electronics, sweat, water, or dry skin can also affect a reading. Follow the on-screen instructions, sit calmly, check contact, and try again.
How do I look at my ECG results again later?
Open Google Health on your phone and tap Health to find past ECG results. The watch needs LTE or Wi-Fi to sync ECG data to the phone.
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Best Value
- The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit[1,2]; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info[1]
- Maximize your performance with advanced running features; build custom run workouts and get real-time guidance and advanced form tracking[3]
- Enhance your run routine with Fitbit Premium; Google AI uses your goals, past runs, and readiness to power personalized run recommendations[3]
- Know what your body is ready for each day with readiness; it uses sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to show if you’re ready to take on a workout or prioritize recovery[3]
- Cardio load measures how hard your heart works so you can see how hard you’ve pushed; compare trends to see if you’re under- or over-training[3]
Does an AFib result mean I have AFib?
No. The result means the app found signs of AFib during the assessment; it is not a diagnosis. Contact a doctor to discuss the result.
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