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Can I Use Apple Watch with Pulses (via iPhone bridge apps)?

  • Writer: Athlete Analyzer
    Athlete Analyzer
  • Aug 12, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Aug 14, 2025

Quick Answer

Yes — Apple Watch can work with Pulses by using an iPhone bridge app (e.g., HeartCast, BlueHeart, NPE heartbeatz) that re-broadcasts your heart rate as Bluetooth Heart Rate. For large team sessions or formal tests, a chest strap is still the most reliable choice.


Apple Watch sends heart rate to an iPhone bridge app, which broadcasts Bluetooth HR that Pulses reads in real time.
Apple Watch sends heart rate to an iPhone bridge app, which broadcasts Bluetooth HR that Pulses reads in real time.

How it works (in simple terms)

Apple Watch → iPhone bridge app → broadcasts as a standard Bluetooth Heart Rate device → Pulses pairs with it like any normal HR sensor.


Note: We don’t own or support third-party bridge apps. Results can vary by iOS/watchOS version and phone/watch models.


Key facts


  • Works via bridge apps (examples: HeartCast / BlueHeart / NPE heartbeatz).

  • The iPhone must stay nearby the athlete (armband or pocket works well).

  • Most bridges support one receiver at a time — pair only with Pulses.

  • For team sessions and testing days, a dedicated chest strap is recommended.

  • Pulses live monitoring: follow up to 20 athletes simultaneously.



Step-by-step setup (5 minutes)


  1. Install a bridge app on the iPhone (HeartCast / BlueHeart / heartbeatz).

  2. Allow permissions in the Watch companion (Heart Rate access).

  3. Start broadcast in the iPhone app (it should advertise as a Bluetooth HR device).

  4. In Pulses, Add heart-rate sensor and select the broadcasting device.

  5. Test for 60–90 seconds before training.



When to use this


  • Great for: solo workouts, small groups, quick trials, athletes already wearing Apple Watch.

  • Less ideal: crowded team sessions, HIIT intervals, or formal Beep/Yo-Yo tests — use chest straps for the most consistent data.


Troubleshooting tips


  • Keep the iPhone on the athlete, not on a bench across the room.

  • Don’t force-quit the bridge app; some need to stay on-screen or in the foreground.

  • Ensure only Pulses is paired (disconnect smart bikes/treadmills temporarily).

  • If you see dropouts, close other apps using heart rate, then retry.



FAQs


Does Pulses officially support Apple Watch?

Pulses supports standard Bluetooth Heart Rate devices. Apple Watch doesn’t broadcast that natively; bridge apps are a practical workaround.


Do I need to carry the iPhone?

Yes. The iPhone receives HR from the Watch and re-broadcasts it for Pulses.


Can multiple coaches receive the same Watch signal at once?

Usually no. Most bridge apps allow one active receiver. Pair with Pulses only.




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