MyShake

A New Approach to Seismic Monitoring

Most earthquake data services rely on fixed, professional sensor networks. The MyShake application, developed by the UC Berkeley Seismological Laboratory, introduces a different methodology. It creates a dynamic detection network by aggregating data directly from the smartphones on which it is installed. This transforms personal devices into scientific instruments, contributing to a crowdsourced early-warning system.

Core Functionality and Data Validation

The app operates by utilizing your device's built-in accelerometer to continuously monitor for vibrations consistent with seismic waves. It analyzes this motion data locally to distinguish potential earthquake signals from everyday movement. For validation, the system anonymously compares readings from multiple devices in a geographic area. An event is confirmed and analyzed when a significant cluster of devices report similar data patterns simultaneously, ensuring measurement accuracy before any alert is issued.

Utility and User Benefits

This setup provides a dual-purpose tool. For the individual user, it offers real-time awareness of seismic activity and can provide early notification of confirmed events. From a research perspective, each opted-in device becomes a data point that helps seismologists at UC Berkeley rapidly calculate an earthquake's magnitude, location, and intensity. The application processes data efficiently in the background, with a focus on minimal battery impact.

• Real-time earthquake detection network
• Uses smartphone motion sensors
• Contributes to scientific research
• No advertising within the application

Download the MyShake mobile app now and turn your phone into a part of a global seismic safety net. Don't wait for the next tremor to take action—get it immediately!

Heads up: you'll need wifi or mobile data for receiving alerts and uploading sensor data. Some advanced features and regional alerting capabilities may vary.