Google introduced an Android earthquake alerts feature in 2020, using sensor data from millions of phones to detect unusual seismic activity. This system sends users alerts about earthquakes, including details like magnitude and epicentre distance. Now, this feature is expanding to WearOS smartwatches, ensuring users receive life-saving alerts directly to their wrists.

The initial hint of this update was found in the Google System Release Notes page, indicating that users will receive alerts on WearOS devices when an earthquake is expected to cause shaking. This update is expected to roll out with Google Play Service version 25.21, although Google has not officially announced it yet.

When an earthquake is detected, compatible smartwatches will vibrate with an alert, providing information on magnitude, epicentre distance, and a warning of expected shaking. This feature will be particularly useful when users are away from their phones, such as during a run or when their phone is in another room charging.