FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Straight answers, including the ones that are not flattering.
Is Ureka Lantern available yet?
No. It is in development and coming soon to iPhone and Android. We will not show store links until it is approved.
Does it call 911?
No. It is not an emergency service. Call 911 or your local emergency number in an emergency. See the safety notice.
Is it really one tap?
One tap prepares everything. Then your phone asks you to press Send, because iPhone does not allow apps to send texts silently and Google Play restricts it on Android. We would rather say so than overpromise.
Will my contacts definitely get the message?
We cannot promise that. Signal, battery, carrier problems and your contacts’ phones can all get in the way. The app tells you what it can truthfully confirm: prepared, handed to your messaging app, or cancelled.
Who can see my location?
Only the people you send the message to, and the services that carry it (your messaging app and carrier). Ureka does not receive it. See the privacy promise.
Do I need an account?
No. There is no sign-up. Your subscription is handled by Apple or Google.
How many people can I share with?
Up to three trusted contacts, by phone number or email.
Can my contacts see each other?
Not by default. The app plans to prepare a separate message to each person, so numbers are not shown to one another, which means you may confirm up to three sends.
What about photos?
Optional and off by default. If you turn them on, the app uses your phone’s normal, visible camera after your location is ready. It never takes photos secretly. How photos arrive depends on your messaging app and your contacts’ phones.
Does it track me in the background?
No. It uses location only when you open it and tap. There is no recurring or background tracking.
Can someone use it to track me or someone else?
It is not built for that. Nothing runs in the background and there is no remote activation. Anyone with your unlocked phone could open the app, so use a passcode. See safety notice.
How much does it cost?
Planned: $3.99 a month after a free first month, billed and cancelled through the App Store or Google Play. See pricing.
Why is there no free version?
No ads and no selling data means the app is paid for by the people who use it. We want it small, calm and dependable.
Does it work without cell service?
Your phone can still find GPS, but sending needs a connection. If you cannot send, the app says so and lets you retry.
What phones does it need?
Supported versions will be listed in the store when it launches.
Is it for kids?
No. It is intended for adults 18 and over.
Who makes it?
An independent developer with a small team. Contact: support@urekalantern.com.
Not answered here? Contact support.