In a vibrant display of technological advancement, Bangkok recently hosted a pivotal test of a state-of-the-art virtual cell broadcast entity (CBE) mobile emergency alert system. This endeavor saw the intersection of expertise from major telecom operators – Advanced Info Service (AIS), True Corp, and the state-owned National Telecom – alongside the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). Together, these entities demonstrated the system’s capability to dispatch emergency alerts to a wide array of smartphones, both Android and iOS, now possible due to Apple’s strategic inclusion of cell broadcast support in its iOS 18 for iPhones in Thailand.
This cell broadcast service, a beacon of speedy communication in times of crisis, relies heavily on a robust framework composed of the CBE system and cell broadcast centres (CBCs). The need for such a system became glaringly obvious after the devastating 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, propelling Thai governments into action, albeit slowly. The seismic jolt on March 28, causing considerable upheaval in Bangkok, reignited fervent demands for a fully operational alert system, spotlighting the cruel irony of its initial absence. Heading the urgent establishment of this crucial infrastructure is the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), responsible for curating warnings, deciding the alert content, and designating notification areas. Presently, the DDPM is deep in the development trenches, crafting the CBE system to serve as the linchpin of emergency communications.
Meanwhile, private telecom operators step into the role of CBCs, ensuring that DDPM-sanctioned messages travel seamlessly through established cell towers within outlined alert zones. Dr. Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, chairperson of the NBTC, proudly stated that all three operators have the CBC system fully installed, a crowning achievement in the pursuit of nationwide safety.
Setting itself apart from traditional SMS, the cell broadcast service possesses the advantage of bypassing specific phone numbers, thus expediting the spread of critical information across entire affected regions without necessitating application downloads. Compatible Android devices include those running version 12 or newer, while iPhone users must have models updated to iOS 18. Alas, this excludes devices clinging onto bygone 2G and 3G capabilities, as well as vintage iPhones predating the iPhone 11. For these outmoded contraptions, reliable fallback on SMS alerts remains vital. It’s worth noting that AIS counts around 1.6 million of these legacy service users, while True claims 900,000, casting light on the ongoing challenge of comprehensive alert dissemination.
The alert system delineates messages into distinct categories: national alerts, emergency alerts, and amber alerts. Specifically, the Meteorological Department and DDPM dispatch warnings for seismic activities, sidestepping NBTC intervention. Conversely, for calamities such as floods or storms, a collaboration between DDPM and NBTC ensures telecom operators are instructed to rapidly put the public on alert. Trairat Viriyasirikul, the acting secretary-general of the NBTC, recounted select aspects of this seamless coordination with discernible pride.
Waroonthep Watcharaporn, AIS’s business relations guru, heralded the trial as a revolutionary leap, meticulously enhancing Thailand’s readiness for emergencies by formulating an intricate web to disseminate vital information promptly. Meanwhile, True’s chief corporate affairs officer, Chakkrit Urairat, underscored the gravity of recent tectonic events, citing them as stark reminders of the necessity for such a sophisticated early warning mechanism.
The NBTC is also in deep consideration of marvellous synergy by integrating an emergency alert system into the digital TV network. Sophisticated deliberations are underway to determine the feasibility of dedicating an exclusive digital TV Channel 1, curated expressly for disaster warnings and up-to-the-minute updates, fortifying the web of nationwide safety nets.
It’s about time Bangkok caught up with modern tech for emergency alerts. Why did it take so long after the 2004 tsunami?
Right? The delay is honestly ridiculous. Lives could have been saved!
Absolutely, hope they maintain and update it regularly.
Implementing technology in government is slow everywhere, and it’s not just Bangkok.
The integration with digital TV is clever. Many older people still rely on TV for updates.
I think it’s a great idea, but not everyone has iPhones with iOS 18 or Android 12. Some people are going to miss out!
Totally! Those with older phones might be left in the dark. More inclusive solutions are necessary!
Exactly, we can’t ignore the millions with legacy devices.
That’s why they must keep the SMS system too. It’s not perfect but better than nothing.
The collaboration between public and private sectors is really impressive. It’s a model other countries should adopt.
Amazing how far technology has come, yet there’s always the gap with people not on the latest tech.
This is a step forward for Thailand, but what about areas with poor phone signal? How will they get alerts?
Good point. Without coverage, even the best systems can’t function.
Yeah, rural areas are often the last to get upgrades.
I wonder about privacy concerns. Broadcasting messages without phone numbers feels invasive.
It’s all about balance. Safety over privacy sometimes, but that’s a slippery slope.
I agree, but there should be strict regulations to protect users.
As a mum, I find Amber Alerts essential. I hope they optimize this for child safety.
Hopefully, the test went well. I can’t trust a system until it has proven itself multiple times.
Developing the CBE system tackles disasters head-on! We can’t leave emergency prep to chance.
Can we really rely on telecoms to prioritize public safety over profits?
And when there’s a false alarm, what’s the backup plan then?
A lot of old devices will be left out. The government should subsidize upgrades.
Good to see Apple stepping up with iOS support in Thailand. Android set the bar ages ago.
Broadcasting across TV and phones is revolutionary. Dual-system improves reach!
Yes, a multifaceted approach is key to covering all bases.
Finally, something good from telecom mergers! Hope they use funds wisely.