Why Does My Galaxy Watch Have Inaccurate Heart Rate Readings

Inaccurate Heart Rate Readings on Galaxy Watches: A Persistent Issue

Users of Samsung's Galaxy Watch series have been reporting a recurring problem with inaccurate heart rate readings, a issue that seems to persist across different models and software updates. This problem has been documented by numerous users on various forums and discussion platforms.

Common Issues and User Experiences

1. Doubling of Resting Heart Rate:
   Many users have reported that their Galaxy Watches, including the Galaxy Watch 4 and 5, consistently double their resting heart rates. For instance, a user with a normal resting heart rate of around 40 BPM found that their Galaxy Watch 5 was reading 70-80 BPM at all times, whether they were sitting, sleeping, or engaging in light activities.

2. Inaccuracies During Exercise:
   Some users have noted that the heart rate sensor on their Galaxy Watches becomes even more inaccurate during physical activities. One user mentioned that while biking or running, the watch's heart rate readings were significantly higher than actual values.

3. Impact of Software Updates:

Software updates have sometimes exacerbated the issue. A user reported that after an update, their Galaxy Watch 4 Classic began showing a resting heart rate of 120 BPM, which is more than double their actual resting heart rate of 45-60 BPM.

4. Variability in Readings:
   The accuracy of heart rate readings can vary significantly depending on how the watch is worn and the conditions under which the measurements are taken. Users have found that taking the watch off for a few seconds and putting it back on can temporarily correct the readings, but the issue often returns.

Potential Causes and Solutions

1. Wearing the Watch Correctly:
   Samsung advises users to wear the Galaxy Watch snugly around the lower arm, just above the wrist, to ensure accurate heart rate measurements. However, even when worn correctly, some users still experience inaccuracies.

2. Physical Factors:
   The accuracy of the heart rate sensor can be affected by various physical factors, including skin condition, blood circulation, and the presence of body hair or other obstructions between the watch and the wrist. Users are advised to ensure the sensor area is clean and free from obstructions.

3. Software and Settings Issues:

Some users have found that adjusting settings or disabling and re-enabling the heart rate sensor can temporarily resolve the issue. For example, a user found that disabling and re-enabling the heart rate sensor after an update to Wear OS 4 helped in getting more frequent readings, although the issue was not completely resolved.

4. Hardware Compatibility:
   There is speculation that some users may be incompatible with the Galaxy Watch's heart rate sensor due to individual physiological factors. For instance, users with very low resting heart rates or specific skin conditions may find that the watch's sensor does not work accurately for them.

Recommendations for Users

1. Check and Adjust Fit:
   Ensure the watch is worn snugly but not too tightly, as this can cause skin irritation or affect the accuracy of the readings.

2. Clean the Sensor Area:
   Regularly clean the heart rate sensor area to remove any dirt, sweat, or body hair that might interfere with the readings.

3. Avoid Certain Activities During Measurement:

Avoid talking, yawning, or breathing deeply while taking heart rate measurements, as these activities can cause inaccuracies.

4. Consider Alternative Devices:
   For users who find the inaccuracies persistent and problematic, using alternative heart rate monitoring devices such as chest straps or other smartwatches may be a more reliable option.

The ongoing issue of inaccurate heart rate readings on Galaxy Watches highlights the need for Samsung to address these concerns through software updates or hardware improvements to ensure that their devices provide reliable health monitoring features.