Android phones in more than 200 regions can now receive earthquake warnings, up from 98 countries and regions, according to Google's announcement on Oct. 15.
Google lists Panama and Guatemala among the additions. The company says the Android Earthquake Alerts System, which launched in 2021, has sent more than one billion alerts. 9to5Google reports the expansion is effective now.
The three alert levels
Google says an Android user in an active region will see one of three alerts. Be Aware is a straightforward alert for estimated light shaking, saying an earthquake has been detected nearby.
Google describes Be Ready as a detailed alert for stronger shaking, telling you to prepare to take action. Take Action is a full-screen alert for moderate to heavy shaking, with immediate advice on how to stay safe.
What changes for Be Ready
Google says the Be Ready alert is being rebuilt "in the coming months." It will show a map with a radius of where shaking has been detected, the estimated magnitude, an action you can take, and a button to learn more as information comes in. Google gave no date.
How to check alerts are on
Google's Android Help page says earthquake alerts are on by default and that you need Wi-Fi or mobile data turned on to get them. To check or change the setting:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Safety & emergency, then Earthquake alerts.
- If Safety & emergency is missing, tap Location, then Advanced, then Earthquake alerts.
As of Oct. 15, that page gives these two routes and does not list separate steps by phone maker.
How it works in the US
Google's help page says US alerts in California, Oregon and Washington are based on data from ShakeAlert.
Where an event crosses a state border, the page says you get alerts only from the system authorized to alert in each state, and the alert names that system.
Limits Google lists
Google's help page says alerts cover nearby earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 and above. It says not all earthquakes can be detected, magnitude and shaking estimates may have errors, and an alert may arrive before, during or after shaking begins. It adds that you may occasionally get an alert without feeling an earthquake.
Why it matters
Our assessment: the biggest change is reach, not design. A warning only helps where it is switched on, so the jump from 98 to more than 200 regions, per Google, is the part most likely to matter outside the US. Google's Oct. 15 announcement gives no date for the Be Ready update, so check the setting is on.
