Google is pushing an update to Android’s earthquake alert system that will show more information while expanding support to more than 200 regions around the world.
Launched in 2021, Android’s earthquake alert system uses Android smartphone sensors to detect the first signs of an earthquake and provide a few precious seconds of warning before destructive impacts. Although the system has had some incidents, it has also saved lives and Google claims to have sent more than a billion alerts.
Effective today, the Android seismic alert system is now operational in more than 200 regions around the world, up from 98 previously. Google specifically cites Panama and Guatemala as new additions.
Beyond regional expansion, Google is also updating the design of earthquake alerts. Concretely, the “Be prepared” step will offer more information on the location of the epicenter of the earthquake and its estimated magnitude.
Google says:
- Know: A simple alert for an estimated slight shaking, informing you that an earthquake has been detected nearby.
- Be prepared: A detailed alert for stronger shaking, alerting you to prepare to take action.
- Take action: A full-screen alert for moderate to strong shaking, giving you immediate advice on how to stay safe.
We’ve created our Be Prepared alert with helpful new tips. In the coming months, you’ll see a map with a radius of where we detected shaking, an estimate of the earthquake’s magnitude, actions you can take, and a button to learn more about the earthquake as information comes in.
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