Google has announced a new feature called Android Emergency Live Video, and it’s pretty much what you’d assume it would be based on the name – the ability to share live video with emergency services. And it works “in a single tap” too, because in an emergency every second counts.
During an emergency call or text, a dispatcher can request live video from your phone, and you can start securely streaming with just one tap. The video will let emergency responders quickly assess the situation and get you the help you need. With the real-time view they can also guide you through life-saving steps like CPR until help arrives.
The feature requires no prior setup, it’s encrypted by default, and you decide whether to share video and when to stop sharing. This is now rolling out in the US as well as “select regions” of Germany and Mexico for Android phones running Android 8 and later with Google Play Services. Google says it’s “closely working with public safety organizations around the world” to expand to more regions in the future.