Select Android phones will receive a literal life-saving update that will allow users to instantly share crucial medical information with first responders.
The feature will be available in the Personal Safety app and the way it works, according to developer RapidSOS, is that the software sends the information when a call is made to a “supported emergency number – such as 911.” Or if they prefer, people can choose to send everything via text message. What that set of data houses is is completely up to you, but it can include your name, allergies you have, pre-existing conditions, emergency contacts, what type of medication you take, and more.
Everything listed will be seen by first responders and you'll know what's being shared as it will all appear in the app, along with other important information. If this sounds familiar, it's because iPhones have something similar called Medical ID. It was even made by the same company: RapidSOS.
Nasty activate this functionLaunch Personal Safety, go to Your Info, enter Access Emergency Info, then enable Share During Emergency Call.
Various restrictions
As great as this update is, there are several limitations.
First off, it looks like this will only be available in certain regions in the United States. The announcement does not mention any other emergency number besides 911. We couldn't find a complete list of supporting locations, although the post does reference Baltimore, Maryland as one of the cities.
Second, Personal Safety is not a widely used app. It is currently exclusive to both the Nothing Phone 1 and the full Google Pixel lineup. Please note that Pixel 4a and later models automatically come with the software (older devices will need to download it manually). It's important to note that the Pixel Watch features personal security, but may not be included in the rollout. It looks like the patch is purely for smartphones. Additionally, these phones must run Android 12 or later.
We tried reaching RapidSOS to ask which US regions will support data sharing and whether it plans to roll out the feature to other countries. This technology runs on Android Emergency location service that exists in other global regions. However, the company doesn't seem to have an easy way for members of the press to contact them. That's why we sent our question to Google. Hopefully they can shed some light soon.
Until then, check out Ny Breaking's list of the best Pixel phones for 2023.