Google Pixel Watch Emergency SOS Update Enhances Safety
Emergency SOS is a critical feature on smartwatches like the Google Pixel Watch, designed to quickly connect you with emergency services in life-threatening situations. However, its effectiveness can be thwarted by accidental triggers, leading to potential delays in actual emergencies. To mitigate this, Google has rolled out an update that adds an extra step to the Emergency SOS process on all Pixel Watch models.
New Emergency SOS Procedure
Previously, triggering the Emergency SOS on a Pixel Watch required pressing the crown five times. Now, after these initial presses, users must hold the screen for an additional three seconds to complete the call. This modification aims to reduce the likelihood of accidental activations and streamline the process during genuine emergencies.
The new update, available in supported regions through version 2025.01.23.721858245.2-release-wear of the Personal Safety app, alters the Emergency SOS screen to include the touch and hold requirement. This change is designed to ensure that emergency services are contacted only when a user intends to initiate the call.
Why the Update?
Google’s decision to implement this update was driven by the need to balance safety with emergency accessibility. In a community post, the company explained that the tweak makes it “less likely to accidentally trigger an Emergency SOS call during activities like exercise, while ensuring fast and easy access to initiate a call when you need it the most.”
How to Adjust Your Settings
If you prefer not to use the new “touch and hold” feature, you can manually set your Pixel Watch to start the SOS call automatically after a five-second countdown. To do this, navigate to Safety and emergency > Emergency SOS in your watch’s settings. Then, select Ways to start SOS and choose Automatically call. This option allows you to custom-tailor the feature to best meet your needs.
Usage Tips
When using the Emergency SOS feature, remember that it requires location sharing and a network connection. Additionally, the feature is limited to specific countries and regions. For more information on how to use Emergency SOS on your Pixel Watch, you can refer to the Android Central guide.
Conclusion
Google’s recent update to the Emergency SOS feature on the Pixel Watch is a commendable effort to enhance safety without compromising the speed and ease of access during emergencies. By requiring an extra step—holding the screen for three seconds—users can minimize the risk of accidental triggers, while the flexibility to change settings provides a personalized experience. This update underscores the ongoing commitment of Google to improving the functionality and reliability of its smartwatches.
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