Android users can now share live video with emergency services
What's the story
Google has launched a new feature called Emergency Live Video for Android devices. The innovative tool lets users stream real-time video to the emergency responders during a call or text. The idea is to give the first responders an immediate view of the situation, and helping them provide timely assistance.
Functionality
How does Emergency Live Video work?
The Emergency Live Video facility works by sending a request from a dispatcher to the user's phone during an emergency call or text. If the user agrees, they can start streaming live video from their phone's camera with just one tap. The firm says this stream is encrypted and can be stopped at any time by the user.
Expansion plans
What about availability?
The new feature is available on Android devices running version 8 or higher (with Google Play Services) in the US, select areas of Germany and Mexico. Google plans to expand this service globally in the near future. The company says Emergency Live Video will work with other safety facilities like Emergency Location Service, Car Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and Satellite SOS to enhance your phone's emergency toolkit.