Samsung says its Galaxy Watch can predict fainting with 'high accuracy'

The most common type of fainting called vasovagal syncope (VVS) is normally not dangerous in itself, but it can cause sudden falls that results in severe secondary injuries like concussions. Now, Samsung says that it has figured out how to predict VVS "with high accuracy" via biosignals from its Galaxy Watch 6. Such early warnings could allow users to get into a safe position or call for help. 

Samsung worked with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital in Korea to develop the new monitoring technique, as detailed in a European Heart Journal paper. Vasovagal syncope fainting happens when someone's heart rate and blood pressure drop abruptly after your "body overreacts to certain triggers... [like] the sight of blood or extreme emotional distress," according The Mayo Clinic. Up to 40 percent of people may experience these episodes, said one of the paper's researchers, Professor Jun Hwan Cho. 

The joint research ...