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Enable SOS Trigger

The SOS Trigger feature lets you send an emergency alert simply by pressing your device’s volume buttons—no need to open the app or unlock your screen.

Enable Volume Button SOS

  1. Open your phone’s Settings.
  2. Navigate to AccessibilityInstalled Services.
  3. Tap SOS App.
  4. Turn on the Allow SOS triggers toggle.
tip

You can also search for “SOS App” directly in Settings to find this option quickly.

Configure Shortcut in Device Settings

Depending on your Android version or OEM skin, the shortcut menu may be located in different places. You can typically find it under Settings → Gestures or Settings → Accessibility → Shortcut.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Use the search icon and enter “volume shortcut” or “gesture” to locate the correct menu.
  3. Tap Volume key shortcut (or similar option).
  4. Select SOS App from the list of available actions.
  5. Confirm to bind the volume button combination to the SOS App.
note

On older Android releases, this may appear under Settings → Accessibility → Installed Services. On newer releases, using the Settings search helps you quickly locate “Shortcut” or “Gestures.”

Trigger SOS Alert

Hold both the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons together for 3 seconds to instantly send an SOS alert.
This works even when your phone is locked.

Example Use Cases

  • Personal Safety in Public
    Quickly alert your emergency contacts if you feel threatened or unsafe in unfamiliar surroundings.

  • Medical Emergency
    Trigger an SOS without accessing your phone when experiencing sudden health issues like a fall or seizure.

  • Discreet Activation
    Victims of domestic violence can silently send an alert without drawing attention by using the volume buttons.

  • Elderly or At-Risk Users
    Seniors or caretakers can summon help immediately if they lose balance or require assistance.

FAQs

How do I activate the Volume Button SOS feature?

Steps to enable SOS triggers:

  1. Open SettingsAccessibilityInstalled Services
  2. Tap SOS App
  3. Turn on the Allow SOS triggers toggle

💡 You can also search “SOS App” in Settings to find it more quickly.

How can I trigger an SOS alert using the volume buttons?

Hold both the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons together for 3 seconds to instantly send an SOS alert.
This works even when your phone is locked.

Troubleshooting

IssueSolution
SOS toggle not visibleEnsure Accessibility services are enabled; use Settings search to locate “Installed Services.”
Volume buttons not triggering alertConfirm you held both buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds and that no other app is intercepting.
Shortcut binding failedRevisit Settings → Gestures/Shortcut and reassign SOS App to the volume key action.
Alert sent accidentallyAdjust press duration or disable the volume shortcut in Settings → Gestures/Shortcut.

What's Next

Learn how to secretly record audio during emergencies for critical evidence.