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

The Google Pixel 8 Pro can now measure body temperature. Previously, the phone’s temperature sensor could only scan objects while Google waited FDA approval for body temperature functionality – that approval has now been granted.

The sensor was one of the features touted when the Pixel 8 Pro was announced in October. But at the phone’s launch, the sensor could only measure the temperature of objects, not people. Now, measuring body temperature is one of the new updates included in the latest feature drop, with Google calling it a β€œmedical feature.”

Users can scan their forehead with the pre-installed thermometer app, and the temperature data is then saved to their Fitbit profile, adding an extra layer of information for health-conscious users. Please note that the feature is only available on the Pixel 8 Pro. The update is rolling out now, but it may take a few weeks for the update to reach your phone.

The thermometer app used on the Google Pixel 8 Pro

(Image credit: Google)

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