Google Suspends Android Earthquake Alerts System in Brazil Due to False Alarm
Google has temporarily disabled its Earthquake Alerts System in Brazil after a false alarm led to unnecessary notifications about a potential quake. This system, designed to provide early warnings by detecting P-waves through smartphones, has had mixed results in the past. The company is investigating the incident while apologizing to affected users.
Google’s Earthquake Alerts System, available on Android devices, was temporarily disabled in Brazil after a false alarm was triggered. This system, launched in 2020, utilizes sensors from smartphones to detect the initial seismic P-wave, offering crucial early warnings ahead of a quake. While it previously exhibited success when alerting users during the Philippine earthquake in 2021, it also faced criticism during a significant earthquake in Turkey in 2023, which it reportedly failed to alert users about.
On a recent occasion at approximately 2 AM local time, Android users across Brazil received notifications indicating a potential earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale. The cause of this false alarm remains uncertain, however, Google is investigating the incident.
In an official statement, Google explained that the Earthquake Alert System is designed to supplement official alert systems, estimating earthquake vibrations through Android devices. Following the false alarm triggered by cell phone signals nearby the coast of São Paulo, Google has since disabled the alert system in Brazil and is taking measures to rectify the issue.
Despite the system’s suspension, it remains unclear how long this measure will last. Google has expressed its commitment to enhancing its tools and has apologized for any inconvenience caused to the users.
In summary, Google’s Earthquake Alerts System faced a significant challenge following a false alarm in Brazil, which led to its temporary suspension. Originally intended to provide early warnings to users during seismic events, the incident highlights the complexities and potential failings of early warning systems. As Google investigates the issue and seeks improvements, the future of the service in Brazil remains uncertain.
Original Source: 9to5google.com
