Samsung called the research the "world's first study" to demonstrate the potential for a commercial smartwatch to provide early prediction of syncope. The findings were published in European Heart Journal - Digital Health.

Vasovagal syncope is one of the most common types of fainting, with "up to 40% of people" experiencing it in their lifetime, according to Junhwan Cho, a professor in the department of cardiology at Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital.

It happens when heart rate and blood pressure abruptly drop, often because of stress, dehydration, standing too long, or another trigger. The fainting itself is not life-threatening, but the resulting fall can lead to a concussion, fracture, or other injury.

"The injuries from sudden falls can be very real," Dr. Sam Setareh, director of cardiology and cardiovascular performance at Beverly Hills Cardiovascular and Longevity Institute told ZDNET. "Even a few minutes of warning could be meaningful: sit or lie down, hydrate, perform counterpressure maneuvers, or call for help. That could reduce falls, fractures, concussions, and other secondary injuries."