Before expected attacks by Russian forces happen, Google announced that Android users in Ukraine will now receive raid alerts on their phone. This feature was adapted from Google’s earthquake alert system. By deploying the air raids alert feature, Ukrainians will be able to prepare themselves to safety from incoming airstrikes. They will get notification when an air raid alert is issued as well as when the raid alert is cancelled.
“This feature uses only your device’s approximate location to send notifications about potential air raids. Google does not use this location information to track or identify you.”
Kent Walker, Google’s President of Global Affairs, said they rolled out this alerts system at the request and help of the Ukrainian government. “Air raid alerts and sirens in Ukraine are a tragic daily reality, and we’re doing all we can to help people get these crucial alerts as many ways as possible”.
The air raids alert feature will work on phones running Android 5 or later. The device must have Internet connection and location must be turned on.
