Hajra Naz
Announced Wednesday, Android Emergency Live Video lets people stream real-time footage from their phone’s camera to first responders when they contact emergency services.
Dispatchers can send a one-time request during an emergency call or text; users then choose whether to start streaming. The video feed is encrypted and can be stopped at any time by the person sharing it.
Google says the live view will help responders quickly understand what’s happening, for example, at crash scenes, fires, or medical emergencies and even allow them to coach callers through lifesaving steps like CPR.
“With a single tap, you can start securely streaming from your camera, allowing responders to quickly assess the situation and get you the right help in the moment,” the company said in a blog post.
The feature requires no prior setup and will work on phones running Android 8 or newer. It’s initially launching in the U.S. and in parts of Germany and Mexico.
Google joins Apple in expanding device-based safety tools, things like emergency SOS, crash and fall detection, and satellite location services aimed at getting faster, more informed help to people in crisis.
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FAQ’s
Do I need to install anything to use Android Emergency Live Video?
No. The feature is built directly into Android devices running Android 8 or later. If a dispatcher needs video during an emergency call or text, your phone will receive a request, and you can choose whether to accept it.
Is the live video stream recorded or stored anywhere?
Google says the video is encrypted and only shared with emergency services while you’re streaming. You control when it starts and stops, and responders only see the feed in real time.
Will this work if I don’t have a strong signal?
Like any video stream, quality depends on your network connection. If the connection is weak, dispatchers may receive lower-quality video or none at all, but your call or text will still go through.
Which devices support this feature?
Any phone running Android 8 or newer can use Emergency Live Video. There’s no special hardware required.
5. Where is the feature available?
The rollout is starting in the United States and select regions of Germany and Mexico. Availability may expand as local emergency systems adopt the technology.
