Key Highlights

• Google launches Emergency Location Service in India for Android users

• Uttar Pradesh becomes the first state to fully operationalise ELS• ELS shares precise location during emergency calls or SMS

• Works on Android 6.0 and newer devices

• Location data goes directly to emergency responders

Google has officially rolled out its Emergency Location Service in India. The feature is now active on compatible Android devices. It aims to improve emergency response by sharing a user’s precise location during distress calls or messages.

This move brings India closer to global safety standards. It also marks a major upgrade in how emergency services locate callers in critical situations.Uttar Pradesh is the first state to activate the service.

How Google Emergency Location Service Works

Google’s Emergency Location Service, also known as ELS, automatically sends a user’s location when they call or text emergency services. The feature activates only during an emergency interaction.ELS uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks to detect location.

Google says it can identify a user’s position with an accuracy of up to 50 metres. This happens even if a call drops within seconds.The service works quietly in the background. Users do not need to install any separate app.

Uttar Pradesh Becomes the First State to Enable ELS

Uttar Pradesh has fully integrated Google’s ELS with the national emergency number 112. The state police worked with Pert Telecom Solutions to enable the system.Once a user dials 112 from an Android phone, ELS sends the location automatically.

The service is free and only activates during the emergency call. It does not track users otherwise.This integration allows faster response times. It also reduces confusion during high-stress situations.

Android Support and Privacy Safeguards

Google confirmed that ELS works on Android 6.0 and newer versions. The feature was already available globally but required local government support to function.Google says ELS does not share location data with the company itself. The information goes directly to emergency service providers. Only authorised responders can access it.

According to Google, ELS has already supported over 20 million emergency calls and messages worldwide.

Emergency Live Video Adds Another Safety Layer

Alongside ELS, Google recently introduced Emergency Live Video for Android. This feature lets users share live camera footage with responders during an emergency.

However, responders must request access first. Users can approve it with a single tap. This adds visual context and can help authorities respond better.

What This Means for Android Users in India

Google’s Emergency Location Service could change how emergencies are handled in India. Faster location sharing can save time. It can also save lives.More states are expected to integrate ELS soon.