Android's emergency alerts just got a major map upgrade - but change this setting first

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• Android Wireless Emergency Alerts now include a map.
• The map shows the affected area and your location.
• Not all alerts override volume settings unless you choose to do so.

Android users just got a potentially life-saving update that makes their phone's Wireless Emergency Alerts significantly more useful.

If you've ever been jolted by a shrill alert about a dangerous storm or a missing child, you know what these alerts are. But you've probably had your share of alerts about a severe storm or tornado watch, only to look outside and see blue sky.

Also: How to set up and and use your phone's lifesaving emergency features

The recent update should make it much easier to see if an alert affects you.

Google hasn't made an official announcement ...