Frequently Asked Questions
Plain answers to the basics.
What does it offer while I have internet?
A full messaging app: end-to-end encrypted messages plus voice and video calls at any distance. When the internet drops, the same app keeps working nearby over Bluetooth.
What is the communication range?
In open air, 100m+ can be possible. Walls, rubble, and phone model can shorten that a lot.
Do I need to set up contacts before an emergency?
For private chats, yes. You add trusted people ahead of time with a QR scan. For SOS, no.
Which permissions does it need, and why?
Bluetooth and Nearby Devices so phones can find each other, location on Android because the OS requires it for Bluetooth scanning (your location is not shared), and notifications so you don't miss messages. Location sharing and map features access location only when you use them.
How does it affect battery life?
In standby it is lighter. If you keep chatting, sending SOS, or using voice, battery use goes up.
Messages arrive late, or the app stops in the background. Why?
Android's battery optimization can restrict the background Bluetooth link. Exempt Crisis Connect from battery optimization in Settings and the device keeps its link to nearby phones even with the screen off.
I can't find a nearby device. What should I do?
Make sure Bluetooth is on, permissions are granted, and the app is open on both devices; then reduce the distance between them. Walls and crowds shorten range. If it persists, closing and reopening the app on both devices refreshes discovery.
Can I make voice calls?
Yes. With internet you can make voice and video calls. Without internet, you can still hold a voice call with someone nearby over Bluetooth; quality can drop if the link gets weak.
What exactly happens when I send an SOS?
Three things at once: a Bluetooth signal broadcasts to nearby devices; with internet, your location, battery level, and status reach authorized response panels (deliberately unencrypted so teams can read them); and your emergency contacts get an end-to-end encrypted alert with live location updates. Without internet, the panel report is queued and sent when connectivity returns.
Is my data private?
Yes. Messages are end-to-end encrypted on both paths: Bluetooth messages go directly device to device, and internet messages travel encrypted so the server cannot read their content.
Do I need an account?
No. Basic nearby messaging needs no account. You sign in optionally when you want online features such as internet messaging and calls.
Do iOS and Android work together?
Yes. Nearby Bluetooth communication and internet messaging and calls work across both platforms.
Do I need downloaded maps?
No. You can still share your location without a full map. The offline map is just an added convenience.
Does Crisis Connect use mesh networking?
Default civilian messaging uses direct Bluetooth links. Mesh modes are separate and controlled: secure responder mesh for authorized teams, and an opt-in nearby public coordination channel only when the user explicitly enables it.