How to measure your heart rate with your iPhone camera
You don't need a watch or a chest strap to check your pulse. Your iPhone's rear camera and flash can read it from a fingertip, the same way a clip-on pulse oximeter does.
Take a reading
- Open the app and tap Measure your heart on the Home tab. Allow camera access the first time.
- Rest one fingertip flat over the rear camera, covering the flash as well.
- Keep the finger resting there — don't press. Pressing squeezes out the very blood being measured.
- Hold still and breathe normally for about 45 seconds, until the ring completes.
- Read your pulse, variability, stress, energy and Heart Score on the result screen.
Tips for a clean signal
- Sit down and rest for a minute or two first.
- Warm cold hands — poor circulation weakens the signal.
- Indoor light is fine; avoid direct sunlight on the phone.
- Rest your hand and phone on a table so neither moves.
FAQ
- Which finger should I use?
- Any finger that comfortably covers the lens and flash. Most people use an index finger. Use the same one each time for comparable readings.
- Why does the flash stay on?
- The light has to shine through your fingertip so the camera can see blood volume change with each beat. It turns off when the measurement ends.
Your pulse in 45 seconds
Heart Rate & Health - Novaz reads your heart rate from your iPhone camera, with HRV, stress, energy and a Heart Score. No account — your data stays on your phone. A wellness app, not a medical device.
Download on the App Store