Google is launching emergency live video support on Android in the US, Germany and Mexico
Google is launching Emergency Live Video on Android, enabling users to securely stream live video from their phone camera during emergency calls or texts. When you contact emergency services, dispatchers can request a live video stream, allowing them to see the situation in real time. This feature is intended to help responders better assess emergencies and guide users through urgent actions, including giving remote instructions for potentially life-saving steps like CPR.
The video feature is encrypted by default and requires no prior setup. During a call or text, you receive a prompt if video sharing is deemed helpful and safe. Accepting the prompt starts the secure stream with a single tap. Importantly, participation is voluntary and you can end sharing at any moment for full control over your privacy and safety.
The Emergency Live Video feature is being released on Android phones running Android 8 or higher with Google Play services in the United States, select regions of Germany, and Mexico. Google is collaborating with public safety organizations and intends to expand availability to additional regions as the program develops.
Related news
External links
- Android Emergency Live Video: Share video with dispatchersGoogle • Official source
- You can now share live video with emergency services on AndroidTechCrunch
- Google Launches Android Emergency Live Video in the USThurrott
- Android users can now share a live video on 911 callsThe Verge
- New Android Feature Lets You Beam Live Video to Emergency ServicesCNET
- Android's new Emergency Live Video feature helps responders see exactly what you're facingDigital Trends
Comments
Another thing I am concerned about is this may have pros and cons. In some cases it may speed up emergency operators but in other cases it may slow them and who is on call by trying to keep things on camera and looking through their phone instead of the situation right in front of them. It was already bad enough I had one waste time asking if I had a defibrillator, which who owns that but rich people with heart problems? They cost $5,000 for a cheaper one.
The concept is not bad if that is the real intent but this also likely can be exploited if not properly locally controlled and safegaurded.
This is the “utopia” part of Big Tech that they should be focusing on. But no, controlling people's devices that they paid for, the websites/apps they can access, and violating privacy rights in ways that will probably be greater than 1984 levels through manipulation is all they care about.
PS: Utopia, a perfect society, cannot be created by imperfect beings.