Now, Pixel phones can detect car crashes: Here's how
What's the story
Google is working on bringing a handy new capability into the Pixel phones - the ability to detect car crashes. The feature, which sounds pretty similar to Uber RideCheck, will come as part of a 'Personal Safety' app that will call for help as and when a car accident is detected. Here's more about the app and its working.
App
Personal Safety spotted on Google Play Store
Just recently, the folks at XDA Developers spotted the unannounced Personal Safety app on the Google Play Store. The screenshots and demo of the service indicated that it will utilize a combination of sensors of the Pixels to detect a possible car accident. It will sound an alarm on the detection and call first responders and emergency contacts if the user doesn't respond timely.
Working
How the app will know an accident has happened?
Google says the app will utilize the location data of Pixels (like if the phone suddenly stops moving), sounds collected by microphones, and readings from motion sensors to determine when a vehicle is involved in an accident. However, we think, it won't probably listen to audio all the time and only look for ambient sounds like those related to the breaking of glass, collisions.
Post detection
After detection, it seeks confirmation, calls help
After picking up a car crash, the app will sound an alarm at maximum volume and check with the user if they had been involved in an accident and need help. From here, you could either confirm that you're fine or tap to call 911 emergency services. If no response is given, the app will automatically alert emergency services with your location.
Added capability
You could also call first responders, emergency contacts
Among other things, the app will also provide one-touch options - Medical, Fire, Police - to alert appropriate responders in the case of an accident. You can even configure the service with your emergency contacts, be it your friends or family members, so that they are automatically informed in case you somehow end up in a dangerous situation or a crash.
Availability
US-based Pixel users to get personal safety
Having said that, you should know that Personal Safety would be rolling out only for Pixel users in the US. The app could come as an exclusive feature for the upcoming Pixel 4 and later slip down to older Pixels. Either way, there's a good chance that we'll learn more about Personal Safety and its crash detection capabilities at the upcoming Pixel launch event.