News in short

• Google is expanding Android’s earthquake alert system from 98 to more than 200 countries and regions.
• The system has sent more than one billion alerts since its launch in 2021.
• New coverage includes Panama, Guatemala and additional regions.
• Android offers three alert levels: Be Aware, Be Ready and Take Action.
• An upcoming update will add shaking maps, estimated magnitude and safety guidance to Be Ready alerts.

Google is expanding its Android Earthquake Alerts System to more than 200 countries and regions. The company announced the expansion on October 15, alongside updates that aim to give users clearer information during earthquakes.

Google says the system has sent more than one billion alerts since launching in 2021. The expansion increases its coverage from 98 countries and regions. Panama, Guatemala and several other locations are among the newly covered areas.

The system uses Android phones to help detect earthquakes and deliver early warnings. Even a few seconds of warning can give people time to take cover before shaking begins.

Android earthquake alerts: Three warning levels explained

Google provides three types of earthquake alerts, depending on the estimated shaking intensity.

Be Aware: This alert notifies users when the system detects an earthquake nearby and estimates light shaking. It helps users become aware of potential tremors.

Be Ready: This alert provides more detailed information when the system estimates stronger shaking. It encourages users to prepare for possible impact and take precautions.

Take Action: This full-screen alert warns users about estimated moderate to heavy shaking. It also provides immediate guidance on how to stay safe.

The system’s warnings depend on factors such as the detected earthquake and estimated shaking at a user’s location. Alert availability and delivery can vary by region and device settings.

Google is adding maps and safety guidance

Google is also updating the Be Ready alert to provide more useful information during an earthquake.

In the coming months, users will begin seeing a map showing the area where the system has detected shaking. The alert will also display the estimated earthquake magnitude and recommended safety actions.

A button will let users access additional information as details about the earthquake become available. These additions aim to help people understand the potential impact and decide what to do next.

The updates build on Google’s existing earthquake warning system. However, early warnings do not guarantee that users will receive an alert before shaking starts. Warning times can vary, and some earthquakes may not trigger an alert.

How Android’s earthquake alert system works

Google describes the Android Earthquake Alerts System as the world’s largest mobile-based earthquake detection network. It uses compatible Android devices to help detect seismic activity and send warnings in supported areas.

The system aims to provide an additional source of information when earthquakes occur. Its alerts can complement official emergency guidance, but users should continue following instructions from local authorities.

Google has published information about the system, including its active coverage areas, through its official Android support resources.

The latest expansion could bring earthquake warnings to more communities worldwide. The upcoming Be Ready improvements should also make alerts more informative when users need to respond quickly.