Google has prepared a comprehensive update for the earthquake alert system used on Android devices. The system, which utilizes sensors in smartphones, aims to detect the initial tremors of an earthquake and send alerts to users shortly before the shaking begins.
Launched in 2021, the Android earthquake alert system has sent more than one billion notifications worldwide to date. With this latest expansion, the number of regions where the system is active has been increased from 98 to over 200. According to information shared by Google, Panama and Guatemala are among the newly covered locations.
ALERTS WILL BE DISPLAYED IN THREE LEVELS
One of the prominent aspects of the update is the changes to the notification interface. Users will now be informed with different alert levels based on the intensity of the shaking. For light tremors, the “Be Aware” alert will be presented as a simpler message informing the user that an earthquake has been detected nearby.
In the “Be Ready” stage, which will be activated for stronger tremors, the user will be reminded to take precautions. These notifications are planned to be supported with information such as the epicenter and estimated magnitude.
The “Take Action” level will operate with full-screen alerts for moderate to severe shaking. This screen will include short and actionable guidance to help users stay safe.
In the coming months, Google plans to make “Be Ready” notifications even more functional. The goal is for users to be able to see the region where the shaking was detected on a map, access the estimated magnitude, and be directed to an additional button for more information.
Although the system has faced some technical glitches in the past, it is seen as an important safety tool because it provides early warning time measured in seconds during an earthquake. Google states that the accuracy of sensor data and user feedback play a critical role in the development of the system.
News Source: 12punto
