Samsung introduces new health sensor for Galaxy Watch 7: What is it and how it works

Samsung is expected to launch its next-generation smartwatch lineup, the Galaxy Watch 7 series at the Galaxy Unpacked event this week. The South Korean tech giant has showcased its new BioActive health sensor for the upcoming Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra ahead of the launch.
In a blog post, the company revealed that it is launching a new generation of its BioActive health sensor in the “next Galaxy Watch” -- which is expected to be the Galaxy Watch 7 series, as well as the Galaxy Watch Ultra.

Samsung claims that the new sensor not only improves the reception of existing photodiodes but also adds new LEDs that emit blue, yellow, violet, and ultraviolet light.
The company explained: “Samsung more than doubled the performance of each photodiode, successfully decreasing the number needed to maintain capacity from eight to four. This redesign freed up additional space for the integration of a larger number and variety of LEDs and ensured their optimal placement across the sensor. The new sensor now includes Blue, Yellow, Violet, and Ultraviolet LEDs in addition to an increased number of Green, Red, and Infrared LEDs. With the integration and arrangement of these LEDs and specially designed photodiodes, Samsung is taking innovation one step further and is now able to pursue unexplored aspects of health monitoring on wearables.”
To explain how this new sensor will work, the company has also shared a video on YouTube. Watch the video here:


The new BioActive sensor will boast improved hardware, allowing it to track existing health metrics like heart rate and blood oxygen with up to 30% more accuracy compared to previous Galaxy Watches. But the benefits go beyond better numbers.
This upgraded sensor unlocks new functionalities, starting with the introduction of an 'Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) Index'. This index provides a clearer picture of your metabolic health by monitoring AGEs within your body.
According to Healthline, AGEs are formed through glycation (both in your bloodstream and during food preparation). They can accumulate in your system and potentially contribute to health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. Some medical professionals even consider AGEs a marker of overall health.
While Samsung has announced the AGEs Index for upcoming Galaxy Watches, it might not be available right away. This launch timing, along with regional availability, seems similar to how new health features are often rolled out.