iPhone and Android users in India receive emergency test alerts
What's the story
Android and iPhone users in India have just received emergency test alerts from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), following similar notifications sent last month. These alerts showed up as quick flashes on lock screens, displaying a standard test message with a long beep. Users have shared screenshots of these alerts on social media platforms like X. The primary goal of these alerts is to enhance the government's readiness for natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and flash floods.
Details
Here are the contents of the alert message
The first test alert, sent out at 11:30am, read, "Emergency alert Extreme. This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through Cell Broadcasting by the Department of Telecommunication, Government of India. Please ignore this message as no action is required at your end." Another alert appeared at 11:40am but in Hindi text. Sent by the NDMA, these alerts have sparked various reactions from users. Some praise the government's initiative, while others express curiosity and question the purpose of these notifications.
Twitter Post
Take a look at the alerts users have received
Did you also get this alert today? pic.twitter.com/qldcIKykmw
— Mukul Sharma (@stufflistings) October 10, 2023
Insights
Alert systems will play a vital role in disaster management
The introduction of emergency test alerts for users in India highlights the government's dedication to improving disaster preparedness and response capabilities. By using mobile technology for emergency communication, authorities can rapidly share vital information during crises. As this feature becomes more widely available, it holds the potential to save lives and lessen the impact of natural disasters on affected communities.
Twitter Post
While some expressed curiosity, for others it's a meme fest
Live look at the people in charge after sending out the #EmergencyAlertSystem TWO MINUTES EARLY: pic.twitter.com/oq17SzUj7s
— Gavendra Chaudhary (@GavendraChaudh4) October 10, 2023
Scenario
Setting up emergency alerts on your device
To access emergency alerts on your smartphone, users can go to the Notifications section under Settings. Swipe down to find "Wireless emergency alerts," and enable/disable notifications. Accessing this feature might not be available on iPhones in India, even after the latest iOS 17 updates. Apple Support previously stated that if users can't find this option, it may not be available in their country/region. Nevertheless, recent events suggest that this feature will soon be accessible to all iPhone users in India.