Samsung Galaxy Watch5 devices

When Samsung announced Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro smartwatches last year, Samsung announced that both these wearables now have a skin temperature sensor (infrared-based). However, until now this sensor did not provide any useful experience to the end users.

Today, Samsung announced that a skin temperature measurement feature is now added to its existing calendar-based Cycle Tracking feature. This temperature measurement will enable users to get even deeper insights to manage their menstrual cycles and overall health.

Basal body temperature (BBT) varies by menstrual phase. Samsung’s new feature is dependent on this basic concept. The Cycle Tracking feature is powered by Natural Cycles. The advanced Cycle Tracking based on skin temperature helps users track ovulation and better predict when their next period will begin.

Here’s how the feature works:

  • To activate, users select Cycle Tracking in the Samsung Health app, add their most recent cycle information into the calendar and then turn on “Predict period with skin temp” in the settings.
  • Readings collected over the prior month are displayed as a graph in Cycle Tracking, showing users their period as well as their predicted ovulation and fertile window.
  • Cycle Tracking also evaluates symptoms entered into the daily log and provides relevant information and tips based on them, such as scheduling a day to relax to address fatigue or exercising gently to relieve premenstrual pelvic pain.

The new skin temperature measurement feature will be released in phases via Samsung Health app updates in Korea, the U.S. and 30 European markets.