Smartphones have evolved into essential tools during crises. Over time, both Apple and Google have implemented features aimed at enhancing user safety in emergencies. It appears that Google may be preparing to introduce a capability similar to Apple’s, allowing Android users to share live video directly with emergency services. In 2024, Apple launched its Emergency SOS Live Video feature, which enables dispatchers to request a live video feed or photos from an iPhone. While users cannot save this footage, dispatchers can store it for documentation purposes. This innovation has received acclaim for providing first responders with real-time visuals, which aids in effectively assessing and responding to emergencies.
Reports from Android Authority suggest that Google is developing a comparable feature for Android. The latest beta version of Google Play Services contains code indicating this functionality, with phrases like “Share live video” and “Emergency services will use your camera to view this emergency” being identified, hinting at forthcoming capabilities. Currently, Google has a limited emergency video feature available exclusively on its Pixel phones, allowing users to record videos for up to 45 minutes during urgent situations. After recording, the device shares a link to the video with selected emergency contacts after a brief delay of 15 seconds. These contacts have a week to download the footage.
However, this feature has limitations: videos cannot be shared directly with emergency services, and live streaming is not an option. In critical situations where every second counts, even a short delay could be detrimental. The new feature observed in the beta code indicates that Google is addressing this issue. By enabling a live video link to be sent directly to emergency services, dispatchers could gain real-time insight into the situation, thereby better guiding users and coordinating assistance. Nonetheless, several questions remain unanswered. Google has not yet confirmed or officially announced this feature, leaving the timeline for its launch uncertain.
It’s also unclear if this live emergency video feature will be available on all Android devices or initially limited to Google’s Pixel phones. If the feature is extended to the broader Android market, it could significantly enhance the role of smartphones as safety tools. Similar to the value provided by Apple’s feature, a corresponding initiative from Google could assure millions of Android users that help is merely a video call away. For now, users must await further information. However, given the indications in the beta of Google Play Services, the prospect of live video sharing with emergency responders for Android devices seems increasingly plausible.