Google has launched a new system that enables Android users in India to receive alerts for earthquakes. The system utilizes your smartphone's sensors, such as the accelerometer, to detect an earthquake and alert you in advance.

In numerous nations around the globe, the Android Earthquake Alerts System has already been implemented to provide an early warning when earthquake trembling begins. In consultation with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC), Google is now introducing it to India.

Android Earthquake Alerts: How it works ?

According to Google, this system transforms your smartphone into a miniature earthquake detector by using the accelerometer as a seismograph. When your phone is charging and stationary, it can detect the onset of an earthquake. If multiple phones detect earthquake-like shaking at the same moment, Google's server can determine the earthquake's location and magnitude.

The Google server then transmits alerts to nearby phones. The notifications are divided into two categories depending on the magnitude of the earthquake. The 'Be Aware Alert' is sent to users who experience MMI 3 and MMI 4 trembling during an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or greater. The 'Take Action Alert' is sent to users who experience MMI 5+ trembling with a magnitude of 4.5 or greater.

Stronger earthquakes circumvent Change the Do Not Disturb settings, activate the screen, and play a booming tone. Additionally, the alert suggests safety precautions, such as taking refuge under a table.

What you'll require for enabling Earthquake Alert System on android ?

For enabling Android Earthquake Alerts System version 5 or later Android smartphone with Wi-Fi or cellular internet connectivity is required.

How to enable Android's Earthquake Alert System ?

It will detect earthquakes around the world and alert Android users before the trembling begins.Here are the steps you must take in order to use the feature to receive earthquake alerts in advance:

1. First of all enable Location Services in the device's Settings .

2. This will help Google detect the device's location, and based on that, it will notify users if an earthquake is imminent in their area.

3. Then, activate the Earthquake Alert System on your mobile device.

4. To enable Earthquake Alerts, navigate to the device's Settings, tap the Safety & emergency option, and then select Earthquake Alerts.

5. That is all. The Earthquake Alert System is now enabled on your Android device, and you will begin receiving earthquake-related notifications.

The feature has two categories of alerts: Take Action and Be Aware of Alerts

Be Aware Alert 

• Be Aware Alert Intended to warn you of mild shaking and provide additional details when you tap the notification.
• Only sent to users who will experience MMI 3 and 4 tremors during a magnitude 4.5 or greater earthquake.
• Respects the device's volume, Do Not Disturb, and notification settings.

Take Action Alert 

• Take Action Alert Intended to get your attention before you experience moderate to severe shaking, so that you can protect yourself by taking action.

• Only sent to those who will experience MMI 5+ trembling during a magnitude 4.5 or greater earthquake.
• Will bypass Do Not Disturb settings, activate the screen, and produce a deafening noise.