Earthquake Early Warning App Developed at Caltech to be Added to Android Operating System

The state’s MyShake app, which provides smartphone users earthquake early warning alerts based on the ShakeAlert system developed with help from Caltech and the USGS in Pasadena, will be included as part of Google’s next iteration of its Android operating software, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday.

ShakeAlert was launched last year, followed by the MyShake smartphone app. But until now, users needed to manually download the app before receiving the alerts, the governor’s office said in a written statement.

“While the state’s application has been downloaded more than a million times since being launched, the new Google technology will automatically be included in millions of Android phones used in California, without the need to download a separate app,” according to the statement.

The app is intended to give Californians vital seconds notice before a large earthquake that can help prevent injuries.

“This announcement means that California’s world-class Earthquake Early Warning System will be a standard function on every Android phone – giving millions precious seconds to drop, cover and hold on when the big one hits,” Newsom said.

“It’s not every day that Silicon Valley looks to state government for state-of-the-art innovation, but that’s exactly what is happening today,” he added.

While other countries, including Mexico and Japan, have long had earthquake early warning alert systems, California is the first state in the U.S. to roll out such a system, officials said 

The system analyzes seismic activity, calculates the preliminary magnitude, and then determines what areas are likely to feel shaking.

The MyShake app is available for download for free in both the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store.