Android to Get iPhone-Like Live Emergency Video Sharing Feature

Google is reportedly working on introducing a major new safety feature for Android users — live video sharing during emergencies, similar to a feature Apple launched for iPhone users in 2024. According to a recent report by Android Authority, newly discovered code in the latest beta version of Google Play Services hints at this upcoming capability.

The code includes references such as “Emergency services will use your camera to view this emergency” and “Share live video”, indicating that Android users may soon be able to stream live video directly to emergency responders during critical situations. This feature could allow dispatchers to view the real-time environment of the person in distress, enabling faster and more informed responses.

The concept appears to mirror Apple’s “Emergency SOS Live Video”, which allows users to share video or photos with emergency services at the request of dispatchers. In Apple’s system, however, the footage is only accessible to emergency personnel and is not saved on the user’s device — prioritizing privacy and data security.

While Google has not officially announced the feature, speculation suggests that it may be rolled out initially to Pixel devices, where Google traditionally pilots new safety tools. Currently, Pixel phones support an emergency video recording function within the Personal Safety app, which automatically records up to 45 minutes of footage and sends a download link to predefined emergency contacts. However, this feature only sends pre-recorded video, not live footage, and does not connect directly with emergency services.

If implemented, the upcoming live emergency video sharing feature could mark a significant advancement in Android’s safety ecosystem. It may help emergency responders assess and react to situations more effectively, potentially saving lives in time-sensitive incidents such as accidents, medical crises, or assaults.

As of now, it’s unclear whether the feature will expand beyond Pixel devices to other Android manufacturers like Samsung, OnePlus, or Xiaomi. The release timeline also remains unknown, but the presence of this feature in beta code suggests that Google is actively developing it.

With growing emphasis on personal safety features across mobile platforms, Google’s step toward real-time communication during emergencies could be a game-changer for Android users worldwide.