During this Friday, March 10, 2023, hundreds of Colombians woke up at dawn as a result of a tremor of more than 4 points on the Richter scale.. To the scare was added a technological element that for many is totally new and is that Google on Android devices alerts its users of tremors.
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The alert that is activated in movements above 4.5 points on the scale caught the attention of dozens of Colombians who minutes before received the alert on their mobile device. To activate this tool It is necessary to have the latest Android update and in the configuration section it is enabled with the location permissions.
According to Linda Patiño, Google Communications Manager in Colombia, the android seismic tool uses the accelerometers that are present in smartphones with the Android system, the functionality You can identify seismic waves and recognize patterns that match the frequencies and vibration generated in an earthquake, using the phones as a network of mini-seismometers.
Now, taking into account that this tool is a novelty for Colombians in Publimetro Colombia We share other “hidden” features on your Android device that could help you in an emergency.
Hidden tools for emergencies on your Android device
Products like the Google search engine, Google Maps or Android have SOS Alerts, functionalities to bring relevant information closerwhich in some cases includes maps, top stories, official local information or emergency care services phone numbers and websites.
Another of the tools active in the devices is the translatorwhich although for many may be an old acquaintance, is also an active function within the device that it can bail you out if you are traveling and need to communicate despite not understanding the language of your destination.
In a similar tone to the seismic alert, it is also that Google allows accident detection from the device. When this function is activated the smartphone It will vibrate and ring to ask if the owner needs help.
Time For its part, it was also updated and allows Android users to find a 10-day forecast, hour by hour and with advanced information on wind, precipitation and daylight hours.
Also read: Impressive videos of the tremor at its epicenter in Santander: there are effects in the department
Finally, another very useful tool when talking about endangered situations is emergencies. To activate it, you only have to answer some fields related to the user’s identity, such as the blood group and some emergency contacts to communicate in cases of danger or risk to integrity.
Unlike the previous tools, in this one the owner of the device can set the response to this interaction, that is to say can dream an alarm, call a number emergencyshare the location in real time or record a video.