Emergency call function SOS on smartphones Android can save lives in critical situation, but sometimes it works accidentally - for example, when you press the power button or in your pocket. If you encounter false alarms or simply want to disable this option, it is important to know how to do this correctly without risking security.

Many users are unaware that setting up emergency calls depends on device manufacturer and version Android. On Samsung Galaxy the algorithm differs from Xiaomi Redmi, and on a "clean" Android (for example, Google Pixel) the menu may look different. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to disable SOS, including hidden settings and nuances for popular brands.

Before making changes, please note: completely disabling SOS deprives you of the ability to quickly call for help in an emergency. If the problem is only random activations, it is enough to reconfigure the combination of buttons or calibrate the sensor - this will also be discussed below.

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Why does SOS work by itself?

Most often false calls occur due to:

  • 🔄 Pressing the power button multiple times (on most devices, pressing 5 times activates SOS).
  • 👖 Accidental pressing in a pocket or bag, especially on smartphones with sensitive side buttons.
  • 🔧 Incorrect gesture settings (for example, on Xiaomi can be triggered when holding the volume buttons).
  • 📱 Firmware failures after updating or resetting the settings.

On some models Samsung (for example, Galaxy S22 or A54) the SOS function is activated when hold the power button + volume up within 3 seconds. This is done for convenience, but often leads to false positives. On Google Pixel the algorithm is different: you need to press the power button 5 times in a row.

If your phone calls the rescue service without your participation, first check:

  • 📦 Case or bumper - they can put pressure on buttons.
  • 🔄 Software updates —in new versions Android sometimes the combinations for SOS change.
  • 🧩 Third-party applications (for example, Bixby on Samsung or Google Assistant), which may conflict with system settings.
📊 How often do you get SOS triggered by accident?
Never
1-2 times a month
Once a week
Constantly

How to disable SOS on Samsung Galaxy

On smartphones Samsung (series Galaxy S, A, Note etc.) the SOS function is configured through the menu Safety and emergency situations. Here are step-by-step guide:

1. Open Settings and go to the section Security and emergency situations (on some models - Emergency functions).

2. Select item Send SOS messages (or Emergency call SOS).

3. Disable slider next to the option. If it is not there, tap on the line and deactivate the function in a new window.

On new devices (for example, Galaxy S23 or Z Flip5), additional confirmation via PIN code or fingerprintmay be required. This is done to protect against accidental disconnection.

If your menu does not have the "Send SOS messages" item, try an alternative way: 

Settings → Additional functions → Shortcuts → Emergency SOS call

Make sure the case does not press on the buttons|

Check for software updates|

Remember an alternative way to call emergency services (for example, voice assistant)|

Back up contacts for SOS

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⚠️ Attention: On some models Samsung s One UI 5.0+ completely disabling SOS may block access to the function emergency video (recording from the camera during an emergency call). If this is critical, it is better to reconfigure the button combination rather than disabling SOS completely.

Disabling SOS on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO

On smartphones Xiaomi (including Redmi i POCO) the SOS function is called "Emergency call" and is hidden in the security settings. deactivate:

1. Go to Settings → PaSSWORD & SECURITY (or Passwords and security on Russian firmware).

2. Scroll down and select Emergency SOS call.

3. Disable. slider next to the option. If a warning appears, confirm the action.

On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 or Redmi Note 12) you can additionally configure:

  • 🔕 Number of presses to activate (by default - 5 times the power button).
  • 📞 Automatic dialing (can be disabled, leaving only sending messages).
  • 👥 List of contacts for notification (if SOS is triggered, but calls not the rescue service, but relatives).

If after disconnecting The SOS function continues to work, check the settings gestures: 

Settings → Additional settings → Buttons and gestures → Emergency call gesture

Here you can disable the reaction to holding the volume buttons.

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On Xiaomi s MIUI 14+ can be assigned double press of the power button to launch the camera instead of SOS. This will reduce the risk of accidental triggering.

Instructions for Google Pixel. and “pure” Android

On smartphones with pure Android (for example, Google Pixel 7, Motorola Moto G or Nokia) the SOS function is called Emergency call and is configured through the security menu. Here's how to disable it:

1. Open Settings → Security and emergency situations → Emergency call.

2. data-i="160">(or Emergency call SOS (or Call emergency services).

3. Disable option or change the button combination (for example, increase the number of presses from 5 to 7).

On Google Pixel there is also a function "Emergency information sharing" (Emergency Sharing), which sends location data to contacts. It can be disabled separately: 

Settings → Security and emergency situations → Emergency communication

If your menu does not have the "Emergency call" item, try an alternative path: 

Settings → System → Gestures → Emergency call
⚠️ Attention: On Google Pixel c Android 13+ when SOS is turned off, the function accident detection (Car Crash Detection) is also deactivated. If you drive often, it is better to reconfigure the button combination rather than disabling SOS completely.
Manufacturer Path to SOS settings Additional options
Samsung Settings → Security and emergency situations → Send SOS messages Setting up contacts for notification, recording emergency video
Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO Settings → Passwords and security → Emergency SOS call Changing the number of presses, disabling automatic dialing
Google Pixel Settings → Security and emergency situations → Emergency call Emergency information exchange, accident detection
Huawei/Honor Settings → Security → Emergency SOS call Voice settings for emergency call
OnePlus/Oppo/Realme Settings → Security and privacy → Emergency call Send location when battery is low

Disable SOS on other brands (Huawei, OnePlus, Oppo)

On smartphones Huawei i Honor the SOS function is called "Emergency call" and is located in the security menu. To disable it: 

Settings → Security → Emergency SOS call

Here you can not only deactivate the function, but also set up a voice command for an emergency call (useful if the buttons are triggered randomly).

On devices OnePlus, Oppo i Realme the path is a little different: 

Settings → Security and privacy → Emergency call

On some models (for example, OnePlus 11) there is an option "Send location information" —it can also be disabled separately.

If you do not find the item you need, try use search by settings (magnifying glass icon in the upper right corner). Enter the request SOS or emergency call —the system will show the direct path to the menu.

What to do if SOS does not turn off?

If after all the manipulations SOS continues to trigger, the reason may be:

1. Firmware failure — try resetting the settings to factory settings (don't forget to make a backup).

2. Conflict with the shell will help (for example, on Xiaomi with custom firmware). In this case, flashing via Fastboot.

3. Hardware problem —if the power button is “stuck” or damaged, SOS will be triggered constantly. In this case, a repair is needed.

How to reconfigure SOS instead of completely disabling it

If you do not want to completely disable SOS, but need to reduce the number of false positives, try the following settings:

1. Change the button combination

  • 🔢 To Samsung: increase the number of presses from 3 to 5 or disable the response to holding buttons.
  • 🔄 To Xiaomi: reassign the gesture to another action (for example, launching the camera).
  • 🎵 On Google Pixel: disable the response to the volume buttons.

2. Set up your contact list

If SOS calls not to the rescue service, but to your relatives, check the list of emergency contacts: 

Settings → Users and accounts → Emergency information → Emergency contacts

Delete unnecessary numbers or add only those who really need to receive alerts.

3. Disable automatic data sending

On some devices, SOS not only rings, but also:

  • 📍 Sends location coordinates.
  • 🎥 Records audio or video s cameras.
  • 📋 Sends medical information (if it is filled in the profile).

These options can be disabled separately, leaving only the basic call.

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If SOS is triggered because of a case or bumper, try calibrate the button sensors. To do this, remove the case, restart the phone and press the power button several times - the system will recalculate the sensitivity thresholds.

What to do if the SOS triggered accidentally?

If the phone has already started an emergency call, you can interrupt it in the following ways:

1. On Samsung:

  • 🛑 Press Cancel on the call screen (if you have time).
  • 🔕 If the call has already started, end it with the button End call.
  • 📵 If the screen is locked, unlock the phone and quickly swipe on the call notification.

2. On Xiaomi and other brands:

  • 🔙 Press the button Back or Hometo interrupt the countdown to the call.
  • 🔕 If the call has started, use the standard end call button.

If SOS sent a message to your contacts by mistake, immediately notify them about a false alarm. In some countries (for example, the USA or Europe) repeated false calls to emergency services may result in a fine or blocking of the number.

⚠️ Attention: On some operators (for example, MTS or Beeline in Russia) the number for emergency calls (112) can remain active even after turning off SOS in the phone settings. This is due to the requirements of local legislation.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the SOS function on Android

Is it possible to disable SOS on all Android devices?

No, on some models (for example, Google Pixel s Android 14+s) the SOS function does not turn off completely due to security requirements. In this case, you can only reconfigure the button combination or disable additional options (for example, sending location).

Why does it still work after turning off SOS?

Possible reasons:

  • 🔄 Software update the settings have been reset - check the menu again.
  • 📱 A third-party application (for example, Bixby or Google Assistant) intercepts button presses.
  • 🔧 Hardware failure — the power button is stuck or damaged.

How to return SOS after shutdown?

To reactivate the function, repeat the path from the instructions for your brand and turn on the slider. Some devices (for example Samsung) will require confirmation via PIN or biometrics.

Will SOS work without a SIM card?

Yes, on most modern ones Smartphone emergency call 112 even works without SIM cardif the phone supports the networks of your region. However, sending messages or location to contacts requires an active SIM card or Wi-Fi connection.

Can SOS be configured to send a message to only one contact?

Yes, on most devices (except Google Pixel) you can edit your contact list for notification. To do this: 

Settings → Security → Emergency SOS call → Emergency contacts

Delete unnecessary numbers, leaving only one.