# **Google Pixel Watch Introduces Additional Step for Emergency SOS to Minimize Accidental Activations**
The Google Pixel Watch has undergone a significant update aimed at decreasing unintentional Emergency SOS calls. This modification adds an extra confirmation step to guarantee that emergency services are contacted only when absolutely necessary.
## **Key Information**
– The Pixel Watch now necessitates users to **press and hold the screen for three seconds** after pressing the crown five times to initiate an Emergency SOS call.
– If the user fails to complete this action within **20 seconds**, the Emergency SOS screen will automatically shut down.
– Users have the option to **manually tweak** this setting to permit automatic emergency calls following a five-second countdown.
This enhancement is part of Google’s initiative to mitigate accidental emergency calls, which could detract resources from genuine emergencies.
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## **Reasons for the Update**
Emergency SOS is an essential safety feature on smartwatches, enabling users to swiftly seek assistance in perilous situations. Conversely, accidental activations—often occurring during exercise or routine tasks—can result in unnecessary emergency calls.
To confront this challenge, Google disclosed last month its intention to implement an additional confirmation step. Now, with the recent update to the **Personal Safety app (version 2025.01.23.721858245.2-release-wear)**, this modification is being rolled out to all Pixel Watch models in areas where it is supported.
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## **Functionality of the New Emergency SOS**
Previously, pressing the Pixel Watch crown **five times rapidly** would instantly contact emergency services. With the update:
1. Pressing the crown five times will **display the Emergency SOS screen**.
2. Users must then **touch and hold the screen for three seconds** to validate the call.
3. If the confirmation is not completed within **20 seconds**, the SOS screen will automatically close.
This extra step ensures that emergency calls are made only when necessary.
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## **Adjusting Emergency SOS Settings**
For users who favor the earlier method, Google permits manual modifications to the Emergency SOS settings. To enable automatic emergency calls without the additional confirmation step:
1. Access **Settings** on your Pixel Watch.
2. Go to **Safety and emergency** > **Emergency SOS**.
3. Tap **Ways to start SOS** and choose **Automatically call**.
This setting allows emergency calls to proceed following a **five-second countdown**, bypassing the new “press and hold” requirement.
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## **Availability and Prerequisites**
The revised Emergency SOS feature is available via the **Personal Safety app update** on the Google Play Store. However, it is only operational in **supported countries and regions** where emergency calling services are accessible. Additionally, the feature necessitates **location sharing** and a **network connection** for proper functionality.
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## **Concluding Thoughts**
Google’s initiative to incorporate an additional confirmation step to Emergency SOS on the Pixel Watch is a positive adjustment for users who have encountered accidental activations. While this update emphasizes preventing false alarms, it continues to ensure that emergency services remain readily available when required.
For those who prefer the previous method, Google has offered an option to revert to automatic emergency calling. This equilibrium between safety and convenience enhances the reliability of the Pixel Watch’s Emergency SOS feature more than ever.
Do you favor the extra confirmation step, or do you believe emergency calls should stay instant? Share your thoughts in the comments!
