Google has launched its Emergency Location Service (ELS) on Android devices in India, with Uttar Pradesh being the first state to fully incorporate this advanced caller location technology into its 112 emergency services. ELS, a built-in feature on Android phones, automatically shares the caller’s precise location with emergency responders when a 112 call or SMS is initiated. By utilizing GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile network signals, the service can accurately pinpoint the caller’s location within a 50-meter radius.
The activation of ELS by Google is crucial in situations where emergency calls may abruptly disconnect after being connected, allowing responders to swiftly locate individuals in need. This service, which is activated only during emergency calls, is cost-free, does not necessitate additional apps or hardware, and ensures user privacy by directly transmitting location information to emergency services without Google storing or collecting it.
Before its full implementation in Uttar Pradesh, ELS underwent a successful pilot test phase, handling over 20 million emergency calls and SMS messages. Even in cases where calls disconnected within seconds, the system effectively identified caller locations. Powered by Android’s machine learning-based Fused Location Provider, ELS guarantees accurate location data regardless of whether the callers are indoors, outdoors, or in motion.
Compatible with all Android devices running version 6.0 and above, the service instantly displays the caller’s location to responders through the UP112 command system upon initiating an emergency call. This visibility, coupled with routing intelligence from Pertsol, enables authorities to promptly assess the required emergency services—be it police, medical, or fire—and dispatch assistance without delay.
