Microsoft Groups replace on Android fixes bug that breaks 911 calls

Android customers, go examine the Google Play retailer for an replace in case you’ve received the Microsoft Groups app put in. You could possibly be saving a life.

Wait, what?

An odd confluence of bugs impacting Microsoft Groups and the Android working system as a complete has put 911 calls positioned from Android telephones (OS model 10 or later) vulnerable to being blocked. The problem was was first spotlighted a pair weeks in the past in a Reddit submit, after which examined and summed up in a subsequent Medium submit penned by former XDA-Builders editor-in-chief Mishaal Rahman (h/t Android Police).

“In line with Google’s investigation, the problem can happen when the person has the Microsoft Groups app put in however not logged in,” Rahman wrote. That ends in what Google described as an “unintended interplay” between the app and the working system, which results in the blocked emergency calls.

For many who are affected by it, it isn’t the obvious glitch to detect. If you name 911 on a telephone impacted by the problem, it appears to undergo. The telephone says there’s an energetic name and it even rings as soon as. However the connection by no means occurs, and the the decision by no means exhibits up in a name log.

Whereas the Groups replace is already reside to deal with the problem on the Microsoft facet — an Android replace can also be approaching Jan. 4, in accordance with Google — there’s additionally a comparatively simple workaround for many who, for no matter motive, cannot get their app up to date. In case you have the Groups app put in however aren’t signed in, first uninstall and re-install it, after which register. That is it. Customers are suggested to stay signed in till they’ve nabbed the Microsoft replace.

The reason for the problem is moderately difficult and technical, but it surely mainly stems from the best way the app and the OS “speak” to one another. If you happen to’re curious, you will discover a full rundown in Rahman’s Medium submit. The necessary factor is, the problem is not less than partially fastened, and it is sufficient to make the Groups vs. Android software program battle go away. The upcoming Android replace feels like extra of a proactive transfer meant to make sure this challenge does not spring up with different apps that may make calls.

So go replace your Groups app pronto in case you have it, whether or not or not you are signed in.