How to monitor earthquakes using your smartphone

Installing an earthquake alert app is one of the most effective ways to receive early warnings. Several free and reliable applications are available on both iOS and Android platforms.

One widely used app is MyShake, developed by the Seismological Laboratory at the University of California, Berkeley, U.S. It uses a phone’s built-in accelerometer to detect tremors and issues early alerts if an earthquake occurs near the user’s location, according to Thanh Nien.

The app notifies users of earthquakes with magnitudes of 4.0 or higher, displays real-time maps filtered by time and intensity, and collects seismic data from users to support global research. It also features illustrated safety guidance. Location access and an internet connection are required for full functionality.

Other notable apps include Earthquake Network, which emphasizes community-based early alerts; LastQuake, developed by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre; Earthquake Alerts Tracker; and Earthquake Zone. These platforms provide real-time maps, push notifications for nearby tremors, detailed data on magnitude and depth, and allow users to report perceived shaking.

Android users can also access earthquake warnings through the Android Earthquake Alerts System, built into newer versions of the operating system. In Android 15, for instance, Google has integrated an Earthquake Detector feature that sends early alerts in supported countries, India TV News reported.

To activate the feature, users must ensure their device is running Android 15, which is available on select models from Google Pixel, Samsung, and OnePlus. Then, they can go to Settings > Safety & Emergency > Earthquake Alerts and switch on the toggle to enable the alerts.

The system focuses on stronger tremors and does not notify users of low-intensity earthquakes.

For those who prefer not to install apps, earthquake updates are available on official websites. In Vietnam, the Institute of Geophysics provides real-time information on earthquakes and tsunamis. Globally, the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earthquake Hazards Program offers live earthquake maps, with filters by time, location, and magnitude. Users can select Vietnam or other regions of interest for monitoring.

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on Friday afternoon caused buildings to collapse and sent tremors and panic sweeping across Vietnam and Thailand.

At least three people have died after a mosque in Myanmar partially collapsed, Reuters quoted two eyewitnesses as saying. In neighboring Thailand, Bangkok has been declared a disaster area, Bangkok city hall said on Friday.