Google launches Emergency Live Video for Android: A new lifeline for faster, smarter emergency response

Google has introduced a new feature for Android called Emergency Live Video that allows first responders to see in real-time what is happening in crisis situations. The feature is being made available in certain areas and it allows dispatchers to ask for a live video stream during a phone call or a text message, thus helping them to evaluate the situation more precisely and to take action more quickly.

The Emergency Live Video is intended to cover various emergency scenarios where communication is a key issue — for instance, in calls when the person is panic-stricken, hurt, or is unable to tell what exactly is going on.

The working of Emergency Live Video

In the case of a call or text message, the dispatcher may send a secure request that asks the person on the other end to share video live from their mobile phone. The users will get a simple notification on-screen and then they can decide whether to give access or not. After the permission is granted, the video streaming will be activated instantly and the transmission will be secured with end-to-end encryption.

Google guarantees that the user has full control at all times --- the user can end the stream with just one tap. There is no need for any extra installation and it operates through Google Play services on devices that have Android 8 or superior.

Importance of this feature

As per Google, live video could be a major factor in the emergency decision process, as it can give the visual context that voice descriptions often fail to provide. The responders can use the video to:

- Determine the amount of damage caused by the accident

- Spot fire or other types of hazards

- Get confirmation of any medical symptoms that are clearly visible

- Lead the callers through the process of CPR or first aid in a step-by-step manner

Having the situation monitored by dispatchers, they can give out more definite directions and also make the teams ready for the site in a more efficient way.

Accompaniment of Emergency Live Video with Android’s safety ecosystem

Emergency Live Video which is a new feature adds to the Android's already existing safety technologies portfolio that includes Emergency Location Service, Car Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and off-grid Satellite SOS for emergency messaging.

According to Google all these new features have one and the same purpose — to minimize the time for emergency responders to get the needed information and be able to act.

Areas where the feature is launching

Emergency live video will be available in:

- The United States

- Certain parts of Germany

- Certain parts of Mexico

Google is already in collaboration with public safety organizations in these regions and plans to bring the feature worldwide with more agencies in tow.

With this release, Android has made another giant leap toward the turning of smartphones from merely communication means to crucial safety companions during threatening moments.