Google launches Android earthquake alerts in India: Here’s how to enable it

By Ayushi Jain | Updated on 27-Sep-2023

Ayushi Jain

27-Sep-2023

HIGHLIGHTS

Google has launched its Android earthquake alert system in India.

Google's earthquake alert system issues two types of notifications: "Be Aware" and "Take Action."

Here's how you can enable earthquake alerts on your Android devices.

Google has introduced its earthquake alert system for Android devices in India. This system utilises smartphone sensors such as accelerometers, which can act as small seismometers and detect tremors.

The tech giant said that it has developed this system with consultation from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC), reports TechCrunch.

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It will offer early earthquake notifications to Android users located in regions at risk of earthquakes. These notifications will be available in various local Indian languages supported by the Android platform.

Google’s earthquake alert system issues two types of notifications: “Be Aware” and “Take Action.” The “Be Aware” alerts are sent to users who experience MMI 3 & 4 shaking during an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or higher. It just displays an alert on the screen and doesn’t play any sound if the phone is on Do Not Disturb mode or in silent mode.

Also read: Indian Government mandates registration of IMEI numbers to avoid mobile phone theft

Meanwhile, the “Take Action” alerts are sent to users who encounter MMI 5+ shaking during an earthquake of 4.5 magnitude. In these situations, the alert will bypass the system’s notification settings, including Do Not Disturb, and play a loud sound to get the user’s attention. Additionally, the alert provides guidance to users on recommended safety actions, such as taking cover under a table.

According to the tech giant, it detects a potential earthquake through many Android phones noting seismic activity in an area. The company also claims that the alerts often reach users several seconds before shaking.

How to enable earthquake alerts on Android

Step 1: Go to the device’s Settings.

Step 2: Tap on the Safety & emergency option.

Step 3: Select Earthquake alerts.

Alternatively, you can also enable earthquake alerts through Settings > Location > Advanced > Earthquake alerts.

Google already issues AI-powered flood alerts to all regions in India. The company initiated its flood alert pilot program in Patna in 2018. Later, in 2020, Google expanded its flood alerts to cover all of India.