Earlier this week, Rogers, Telus and Bell started texting customers to let them know Canada’s Alert Ready system is set to debut on April 6, 2018, and their networks are ready for the launch, for those with compatible devices.
Freedom Mobile has started to similarly inform customers about Alert Ready via text message, saying “As of April 6, capable phones will receive emergency alerts from the government Alert Ready service. More info/capable devices: freedommobile.ca/alertready”
According to Freedom Mobile, the following devices will be able to receive alerts:
Google Pixel 2
Google Pixel 2 XL
Motorola Moto G Play
Motorola Moto E4
Motorola Moto G4 Plus
Samsung Galaxy S9+
Samsung Galaxy S9
Samsung Galaxy S8+
Samsung Galaxy S8
Samsung Galaxy Note8
Samsung Galaxy J3
Samsung Galaxy A5
Samsung Galaxy Xcover 4
Sony Xperia XZ1
Sony Xperia XA1
Sony Xperia XA1 Ultra
While Apple’s iPhone is not on the official list yet, devices starting from iPhone 5 or newer (i.e. supports LTE) should eventually support Alert Ready once it launches (as per what Rogers stated).
Freedom Mobile explains here’s what you can expect when you receive an alert:
On compatible wireless devices, the emergency alert will display an “EMERGENCY ALERT/ALERTE D’URGENCE” banner, followed by text that describes the situation and provides instructions on what actions to take and where to find more information. At the top of each emergency alert, the issuing government agency will be clearly indicated.
The Alert Ready system allows authorities to send LTE alerts to compatible devices within specific geographic areas, in times of impending disasters or emergencies, such as tsunami warnings (or false incoming ballistic missiles; #hawaii #neverforget).
Last year, the CRTC mandated all wireless carriers in Canada to support Alert Ready, setting a one year deadline for a system to be setup, which will fall on April 6, 2018.
Thanks Ryan
