Google brings 911 RCS texting capabilities to messages across the US

What do you want to know

• Google says it will begin “gradually rolling out” texting to 911 capabilities via RCS on Android later “this winter.”
• Users will soon be able to text 911 emergency responders and see when they start responding while sending images and videos to help them.
• This feature will join drop and crash detection on Android.

Google offers Messages a useful emergency services feature that allows users to contact the relevant authorities via RCS.

According to a Press release, Google has partnered with RapidSOS to bring SMS 911 capabilities to messages via RCS-enabled chats. Contacting data centers via this method will allow users to “confirm receipt” of their emergency requests and see when authorities are actively responding to them. Google hopes this will take the guesswork out of wondering if 911 received your text message.

Additionally, RCS-enabled chats allow users to send high-quality images and videos to 911, which could help them better understand your situation. Finally, location sharing becomes possible thanks to Google’s partnership with RapidSOS, as SMS, the old method of texting authorities, did not have this capability.

Data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) shows that only 53% of 911 centers in the United States can accept text messages as a means of communication.

Google announced today (June 6) that it will bring its 911 RCS functionality to “all 911 agencies in the United States” for free. Affected companies are expected to begin rolling out this new feature to call centers across the United States later this winter.

QuickSOS recently launched a host of new features designed to ensure public safety, involving messaging, multimedia and its HARMONY AI co-pilot for emergency response.

Brian Fontes, president of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), said: “For too long, we have asked our first responders to handle millions of emergencies with little more than a voice connection. I’m excited to see the paradigm shift for 911 agencies across the United States.

On the other hand, Google adds that it will continue to refine its efforts to improve access to emergency centers via RCS. The company hopes to make RCS the “standard for emergency services everywhere.”

This new feature will come to Android devices later this year, with Google’s eyes set on the winter season.

RCS, as most Messages users may know, helps keep our texts private between us and the other person. With this modern texting solution joining 911 centers for emergency communications, Google sees this as a way to enhance our personal safety and security. The company has already rolled out other features to connect Android users to authorities, such as fall detection on the Pixel Watch and crash detection on Pixels.