Google is expanding its Android Earthquake Alerts System to more than 200 countries and regions to help more people receive early warnings during earthquakes. The system previously covered 98 countries and regions.

Announced on October 15, the update also brings improvements to the system’s “Be Ready” alert, which will provide users with additional information.

According to Google, the system has sent more than one billion alerts since its launch in 2021. It uses Android phones to help detect earthquake activity and send warnings that may give people a few seconds to take cover before tremors begin. The expanded coverage includes Panama, Guatemala and other regions.

Google began rolling out the alerts in newly supported regions on October 15, with the rollout expected to be completed within the following week.

Google says Android users in areas where the service is active may receive one of three types of earthquake alerts.

The “Be Aware” alert notifies users when an earthquake is detected nearby and light shaking is expected. The “Be Ready” alert provides more detailed information when stronger shaking is anticipated, helping users prepare to take action. For moderate to heavy shaking, users may receive a “Take Action” alert. This appears as a full-screen notification.

Google is also updating its “Be Ready” alert to provide users with more information about an earthquake. The new features, expected to roll out in the coming months, will include a map showing the area where shaking has been detected, along with an estimated earthquake magnitude.

The updated alert will also offer actions users can take and a button to access more information about the earthquake as details become available.

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