Google is introducing Android Emergency Live Video today to let users in three countries share their camera feeds with dispatchers.
You call or text (if available) your country’s emergency number like normal from your Android phone. The dispatcher can send a request to your device to share video if they determine that “seeing the scene would be helpful and it’s safe to do so.”
Video can help them “quickly assess the situation and get you the right help in the moment.” This might include guiding you through CPR or other life-saving steps:
In an emergency, every second counts. But it can be hard to describe exactly what’s happening, especially when you’re stressed or in danger. Whether it’s a car accident, a medical crisis or a rapidly moving wildfire, giving emergency responders eyes on the situation can make all the difference.
It’s up to you to approve (“Share” or “No thanks”) the video request, with Google noting how the “feature is encrypted by default.” The feed opens as a picture-in-picture window that you can expand, with “Stop sharing” available throughout. Other controls include turning on your flashlight and switching to the front-facing camera.
Emergency services will be able to view and record video of this event using your camera.
Emergency Live Video is rolling out starting today “across the U.S.” on Android 8+ with Google Play services. It’s also available in “select regions of Germany and Mexico.”
Google is “closely working with public safety organizations around the world to expand this capability to more regions,” and has partner documentation available here for those interested in participating.
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