Key Highlights
- Google is introducing Earthquake Alerts for Android in India
- Users who use this function will receive earthquake alerts in their area
- It will be compatible with Android OS 5 and newer OSes
Google has introduced Earthquake Alerts on Android smartphones in India through a partnership with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC). This system harnesses smartphone data to detect early signs of earthquakes and notify users in affected areas.
Also Read | Want To Get Weather Alerts On Your iPhone? Here’s How To Do It
How It Works: Smartphone Seismometers
In a blog post, Google explained that Android smartphones are equipped with accelerometers that act as mini seismometers. When a charging phone detects initial earthquake tremors, this data is relayed to Google’s servers. If multiple phones detect similar shaking simultaneously, the system estimates the earthquake’s occurrence, epicenter, and magnitude. Subsequently, alerts are sent to nearby phones.
Two Types Of Alerts For Android Users
Android users will receive two types of alerts based on smartphone data:
Be Aware Alert: This alert is designed to inform users about light shaking, providing additional information upon tapping the notification. It respects the user’s volume, Do Not Disturb, and notification settings.
Take Action Alert: Geared toward warning users before they experience moderate to heavy shaking, this alert interrupts Do Not Disturb settings, activates the screen, and emits a loud sound to prompt users to take protective measures.
Also Read | How To Use Missed Call Alert Feature: Check All Steps Here
How To Enable Earthquake Alerts On Android Phones
While Google is rolling out this feature to Android devices running Android 5 and newer OS versions, users must manually enable it. Here are the steps to activate Earthquake Alerts on Android smartphones in India:
Step 1: Turn on mobile data or Wi-Fi on your Android phone.
Step 2: Open the Settings app.
Step 3: Access Safety & emergency settings.
Step 4: Choose the Earthquake Alerts option.
Step 5: If you can’t find Safety & emergency, navigate to Location, then Advanced, and finally Earthquake alerts.
Step 6: Toggle the Earthquake Alerts option to enable it.
Google’s Earthquake Alerts aim to enhance safety and preparedness for seismic events among Android users in India.
