HeartRateMonitor

HeartRateMonitor is a heart rate measurement app for iPhone that uses PPG (photoplethysmography) technology through the camera and flashlight to measure your pulse in real time.

When you place your fingertip over the camera lens with the flashlight on, the app detects tiny color changes in your skin caused by blood flow. This technique is called photoplethysmography (PPG) and is the same principle used by medical pulse oximeters and smartwatch sensors.

Camera-based PPG provides a reliable estimate of your resting heart rate. For best results, sit still, place your finger gently over the lens, and wait for the signal quality indicator to show a strong signal. Results are comparable to consumer wearables, though this is not a medical device.

Simple mode gives you a quick BPM reading with minimal UI — perfect for daily measurements. Advanced mode shows a real-time PPG waveform chart, signal quality indicator, session statistics (min/avg/max), torch brightness control, lens selection, and a debug panel for enthusiasts.

No. HeartRateMonitor is 100% private. Zero data is collected, no data leaves your device, and there are no accounts, analytics, or third-party SDKs. Your heart rate measurements stay entirely on your iPhone.

Yes. You can start a measurement via Siri Shortcuts or Home Screen Quick Actions. The app also offers full VoiceOver support, Reduce Motion support, and high-contrast semantic colors (WCAG AA compliant).

HeartRateMonitor supports multi-lens selection. It works with both the back camera (torch-illuminated, recommended) and the front camera (screen as light source). The app provides a device-specific finger placement guide to help you position your finger correctly.

Yes. HeartRateMonitor is completely free with no ads, no subscriptions, and no in-app purchases.