In addition to the ECG functionality, the Apple Watch Series 4 incorporates a very interesting functionality which can prove to be vital in certain situations. This is the fall detection function.
For a few years now, Apple has been seeking to integrate health solutions into its products. An orientation which was notably noticed with the introduction of the electrocardiogram function on its last connected watch, but it is not the only vital functionality of this watch.
In fact, the Apple Watch Series 4 also incorporates a fall sensor which, in the event of a sudden fall being detected, can prevent rescue and emergency contacts. It is particularly useful for users of a certain age , who may fall badly.
This function is based - as its name suggests - on the fact of being able to detect significant and brutal falls. If this is the case, it will then emit an alarm and a vibration and an alert message will then be displayed on the screen.
If the user is actually in a bad position, he can then select "Emergency call" to contact the emergency services and notify his emergency contacts of the situation and its location. A precious help when your phone is not in your hand and you no longer really know how to move.
In the event that the user does not carry out any manipulation - select "Emergency call" or "I am fine" - and if the watch does not detect any movement on the part of its wearer, it will then launch an automatic call to emergency services. This call is launched after a 30-second countdown during which the watch vibrates and emits an alarm signal.
When the communication is made, an automatic audio message is broadcast, informing the emergency services of the situation and providing the geographic coordinates of the victim.
For this vital functionality to launch in the event of a fall, it must however be activated.
Activate "Fall detection"
From your Apple Watch, select the "My watch" tab, then "Emergency call" and activate or deactivate the "Fall detection" option. It's that simple.
You can also configure your emergency contacts and health data. For users 65 and older, the feature is automatically activated.
Add emergency contacts
From your iPhone, access the Health application and select "Medical file" to modify it. Add your date of birth and other important health information.
Finally, in "Emergency contacts", press the "+" to add contacts who will be contacted in the event of a fall detection.