Does Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Have a Temperature Sensor?
Yes, the Galaxy Watch 5 includes a new skin temperature sensor that wasn't available on the Galaxy Watch 4. This infrared sensor is integrated into the improved BioActive sensor array on the back of the watch.
How It Works
The temperature sensor primarily activates during sleep for automatic tracking.
- Technology: Infrared skin temperature sensor
- Accuracy: ±0.2°C when properly worn
- Measurement: Wrist skin temperature (not core body temperature)
- Activation: Automatic during sleep sessions
The sensor tracks temperature throughout the night and integrates the data with your sleep analysis in Samsung Health.
What It Measures
The sensor provides skin temperature data, not core body temperature.
- Skin temperature: Typically 30-34°C at the wrist
- Core temperature: 36-37°C (not measured by this sensor)
- Best for: Tracking personal trends over time, not fever detection
This is a wellness feature, not a medical thermometer. It's designed to show how your temperature varies relative to your personal baseline.
Sleep and Recovery Insights
Temperature data enhances sleep tracking and recovery monitoring.
Sleep Quality Analysis:
- Tracks temperature variations throughout the night
- Correlates with sleep stages (REM, deep, light)
- Identifies temperature-related sleep disruptions
- Shows baseline deviations
Recovery Monitoring:
- Elevated nighttime temperature may indicate overtraining
- Temperature returning to baseline suggests good recovery
- Athletes can assess workout readiness
Accessing Temperature Data
View your temperature insights in the Samsung Health app on your phone.
- Open
Samsung Health - Tap the Sleep tile
- Select a recent sleep session
- Scroll to the Temperature during sleep section
You'll see your nightly average, temperature curve graph, deviation from baseline, and correlation with sleep quality.
Limitations
The temperature sensor has specific constraints to understand.
- Not for fever detection: Not designed for illness screening
- Not medical-grade: Cannot diagnose health conditions
- Sleep only: Currently only works during sleep sessions
- Requires consistency: Need nightly wear to establish baseline
Samsung positions this as a wellness feature, not a medical device. Consult healthcare providers for health concerns.
Optimizing Accuracy
For the most accurate readings, follow these best practices.
- Proper fit: Snug but comfortable on wrist
- Consistent wear: Same wrist position each night
- Clean sensor: Keep BioActive sensor clean and dry
- Stable environment: Consistent bedroom temperature
- Allow acclimation: Give watch 30 minutes to adjust after putting on
It takes about one week of consistent nightly wear to establish a reliable temperature baseline.
For Athletes and Health Enthusiasts
Check your temperature trend before hard workouts to assess recovery status. Elevated nighttime temperatures often indicate the body is still recovering from previous training.
See Also: What's New in Galaxy Watch 5|How to Measure Temperature