Google Pixel 6 Reportedly Getting Heart Rate Tracking Feature; Magic Eraser Tool Said to Be Getting Erased

Google is reportedly bringing heart rate tracking and respiratory tracking features on the Pixel 6 via the Google Fit app. These features were available on Pixel 5 and Pixel 4a for a while, and now Pixel 6 owners can reportedly take advantage of them too. It is said to be out of “early access” phase, meaning a broad rollout is underway. Separately, few Pixel 6 users are reporting the removal of the Magic Eraser tool after the latest Google Photos update. Again, this seems to have affected only a few users as the update rollout has been stopped.

9to5Google reports that Google Pixel 6 units are now getting heart rate and respiratory tracking features via the Google Fit app. The app uses the phone's camera to measure heart rate and respiratory rate. Google reportedly warns that this feature is “not for medical use” and that it is “being fine-tuned and may be removed.” The report adds that while testing the heart rate tracking feature, its results were accurate and matched that of a Fitbit tracker and a Pixel 5 in a “well-lit area.” However, the reading was roughly off by 30 beats per minute in a darker room.

On Google Fit, Pixel 6 users can check if they've received the feature by going to Browse > Vitals. The two cards will appear at the bottom of the Home tab.

In addition, Some Pixel 6 users are reporting that the Magic Eraser tool was removed after the latest Google Photos app update. This feature lets users remove unwanted objects from photos. However, according to Android Central, the Google Photos app version 5.67 has removed the useful feature for several Pixel 6 users. The rollout of this update has reportedly been stopped and those who haven't updated their Google Photos app can still use the Magic Eraser tool on their Pixel 6.

Google spokesperson Alex Moriconi told The Verge that the company has “identified an issue early in the rollout of [its] latest Photos update and are providing a fix shortly.”