Google and Samsung have both pledged support and partnership for the creation of Health Connect. The partnership between both tech giants would birth a platform and application programming interface (API) that gives developers a toolset to sync users’ health data between Android apps and devices. Reports say the initiative would be beneficial to users of both platforms as it would be easier to keep track of health and fitness data across several different platforms.
Once a user opts-in the platform and then gives their consent, developers can therefore compile user health data in an encrypted hub located on a user’s device. According to Google, users gain full control over the kind of data they want to be shared and what apps they share it with once opt-in is complete. If the app collecting this user data is more than one, users can choose to share with one app over the others. Health Connect supports many common health and fitness data types and categories, including activity, sleep, nutrition, body measurements, and vitals like heart rate and blood pressure.
Samsung Executive Vice President TaeJong Jay Yang in a press release said “We’re working alongside Google and other partners to realize the full benefits and potential of Health Connect.” Jay Yang further said that “I’m excited to confirm that Samsung Health will also adopt Health Connect later this year. With users’ permission, this will enable app developers to take advantage of accurate and optimized data measured on Galaxy Watch for Samsung Health and use it in their apps as well.”
Currently, Health Connect is already in an open beta stage, and accessible to all Android developers. Google has also disclosed that aside from Samsung, it is also working with the developers of MyFitnessPal, Leap Fitness, and Withings in a bid to gain early access to the program. Google isn’t stopping there as well, Google Fit and the Google-owned Fitbit are all set and in that phase to adopt Health Connect, what this therefore translated to is that, later in the year when the Pixel Watch debut, the tech should be ready to roll out with it by then.
Reports say that the Health Connect API is just another example of Google’s willingness to collaborate with other companies. Google has always supported an open approach to its products, unlike Samsung and Apple. Google isn’t known to force users into its ecosystem — but concerns are that with the Pixel Watch and Pixel Tablet on the way, Google may subtly start nudging users towards its own products as its lineup of Pixel devices continues to expand.
Olagoke Ajibola is a creative writer and content producer with an eye for details and excellence. He has a demonstrated history of telling stories for TV, Film and Online. Aside from being fascinated by the power of imagination, his other interest are travel, sport, reading and meeting people.
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