Android Expands Earthquake Alerts System to Thailand
26 Oct 2026
Google is expanding its Android Earthquake Alerts System, a service that sends earthquake alerts through Android smartphones, to more than 200 countries worldwide, including Thailand. The rollout is scheduled to begin on October 15, 2026, with full availability expected within approximately one week. The system aims to help people become aware of potential risks and prepare for ground shaking more quickly.
How Does Android Detect Earthquakes Through Smartphones?
The system uses accelerometers built into Android phones to detect ground vibrations. When multiple devices in nearby areas detect unusual movements, the system processes the data to assess whether an earthquake may be occurring before sending alerts to users in areas expected to be affected.
The system uses approximate device location to determine where alerts should be sent. Google states that this information is not intended to identify individual users or pinpoint their exact locations.
Since its launch in 2021, the system has sent more than one billion alerts. Google describes it as the world's largest earthquake detection network powered by mobile phones.
Three Alert Levels with Safety Guidance
The system divides earthquake alerts into three levels:
Be Aware: Notifies users of nearby earthquakes that may cause light shaking.
Be Ready: Provides additional information to help users prepare for stronger shaking.
Take Action: Displays a full-screen alert for areas that may experience moderate to severe shaking, along with instructions on what to do immediately.
In the coming months, Google plans to add more details to Be Ready alerts, including maps showing the areas where shaking has been detected, estimated earthquake magnitudes, safety recommendations, and a button for accessing additional information.
How to Enable the Feature and What to Know
On supported Android phones, earthquake alerts are enabled by default. Users must keep Wi-Fi or mobile data turned on to receive alerts.
To check the settings, go to Settings > Safety & emergency > Earthquake alerts. On some devices, the feature may be located under the location settings menu. Menu names may vary depending on the device and Android version.
However, the system cannot guarantee that every earthquake will be detected, and initial estimates of an earthquake's magnitude or severity may be inaccurate. Users may receive alerts before, during, or after they begin to feel the shaking.
When an earthquake occurs, people should follow the Drop, Cover, and Hold On procedure by dropping to the ground, protecting their head and neck under a sturdy table if it is safe to do so, and holding on until the shaking stops. They should also prioritize official announcements from government agencies.
The expansion of this service provides another channel for delivering emergency alerts through smartphones. However, people should continue monitoring information from official authorities and maintain an earthquake preparedness plan.
Source: Google Blog
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