Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: Skin temperature feature now fully operational
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 range has launched its skin temperature monitoring during sleep feature, which was initially in Beta. This enhancement bolsters the smartwatch’s health-monitoring functions.
Released a few weeks prior, the Galaxy Watch 6 already included skin temperature tracking as a standard feature. This naturally led to speculation about whether and when its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro, would follow suit.
The Beta Phase: Honing in on skin temperature
We actually knew the feature would be enabled at some point. Skin temperature tracking had been in Beta testing since July, allowing Samsung to fine-tune its accuracy and gauge user response before a widespread launch.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro now offer a nuanced approach to health monitoring by focusing on this additional metric during sleep. The feature, already present in competitor products from Fitbit and Whoop, enables users to spot deviations from their normal readings. Such insights serve as an early warning system for potential health concerns, assist in managing fitness routines, and offer personalized health advice.
Cycle Tracking: Distinct yet complementary
Last spring, Samsung rolled out a fully functional cycle tracking feature for women. Created in partnership with Natural Cycles, this feature leverages the watch’s infrared sensors to provide menstrual cycle insights. Info includes predictions for fertile windows and period start dates.
The feature has been designed to offer a user-friendly experience. To this end it comes with intuitive interfaces and easy-to-understand visualizations, making it accessible for individuals regardless of their familiarity with menstrual cycle tracking.
While the feature itself is distinct, it complements other health metrics monitored by the Galaxy Watch 5 range, such as heart rate and sleep patterns. What’s more, the successful deployment of cycle tracking showcased the versatility of the watch’s sensors, paving the way for additional features like skin temperature monitoring.
What’s new: The evolution beyond Beta
The skin temperature monitoring has now started rolling out to users of the Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro. To enable the feature, make sure all your software is up to date. Then you need to navigate to the Health app on the watch. Once inside the app, the option for skin temperature monitoring should be visible, allowing you to activate the feature. It should be a straightforward process.
The rollout of skin temperature tracking on the Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro signals Samsung’s intent to keep its older models relevant. Although the Galaxy Watch 6 had an initial advantage, the Galaxy Watch 5 range is catching up. It has come well after the watch’s initial unveiling – but better late than never!
While initial reactions to the feature have been mostly positive, its practical utility remains a subject of discussion. Is this feature a meaningful addition to health monitoring, or merely another bullet point on the spec sheet? As more users engage with this feature, its long-term value and utility will become clearer.
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