TL;DR The Android earthquake detection system allegedly failed during a Turkish quake in February, with no one receiving an alert before the first tremor. Google claims the system worked and has now released a statement. Update, July 28, 2023 (2:07 PM ET): Google’s spokesperson expressed sadness over the loss of life in the recent earthquakes in Turkey and emphasized that the Android Earthquake Alerts System is a supplemental service that estimates earthquake shaking and provides early warnings. The system detected major earthquakes and aftershocks in Turkey. However, various factors such as the characteristics of the earthquake and internet connectivity can affect users receiving and acting on an alert. Google is committed to improving the system by investing in technology advancements and collaborating with experts. When confronted, Google initially defended the system, but the BBC report contradicted this. Original, July 28, 2023 (2:49 AM ET): Google launched an Android earthquake detection system in 2020, providing seconds’ notice before a quake. Recent reports suggest the system may have failed during a Turkish quake earlier this year. In February, nearly 60,000 people died in a morning earthquake in Turkey, and the BBC claims that the Android earthquake detection system failed to notify many residents before the first tremor. The system uses accelerometer data from smartphones to accurately detect the epicenter of a quake and send warnings to users. The BBC found no evidence of alerts for the first quake but a few notifications for the second tremor. Google defended the system, but the BBC found no support for this claim. Google provided social media posts mentioning a warning about the quake, but only one mentioned a warning for the first tremor. Residents contradicted Google’s suggestions and stated they did not receive an alert. Google cited user surveys showing the system’s effectiveness but did not share details. Google later stated that various factors can affect users receiving and acting on an alert during a devastating earthquake. Improved reliability of the system is crucial. Google’s system successfully worked during a quake in San Jose, California, beating iPhones. Confirmation from Google regarding the system’s performance in Turkey is awaited.
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