System for broadcasting messages across mobile networks becomes active in Latvia
Latvia Launches Cell Broadcast System for Emergency Alerts
After years of preparation and a delay in its initial launch, Latvia has finally introduced the cell broadcast system for emergency alerts as part of the EU-Alert emergency warning system in July 2025 [3]. This system, developed by SIA Meditec, is designed to provide timely alerts during natural disasters, military threats, or other crises.
How it Works
The cell broadcast technology sends emergency alerts to mobile phones in a geo-targeted way, ensuring messages are received even during network congestion. The system works on all generations of mobile networks, and alerts will be received on mobile phones operating in Latvia. Notification names will be displayed in Latvian, with some English translations in certain cases.
Participating Parties
The implementation of this system aligns with the European Telecom Standards Institute (ETSI) and EU regulations under the EECC transposition. This involves the national communications regulator and mobile network operators working together to set up and operate the system [1][3].
Delayed Launch
Although the Electronic Communications Code, which guides such implementations, was finalized in mid-2022 [1], the actual deployment of the cell broadcast-based EU-Alert system took place only three years later in mid-2025 [3]. The reasons for this delay are not explicitly detailed in the available sources.
Successful Implementation
All mobile operators - LMT, Bite, and Tele2 - have acknowledged that the project has been successful. Developers of operating systems also ensure that messages are received and displayed on smartphones.
Additional Features
Cell broadcast messages are not SMS messages but a separate feature that displays alerts on mobile phones in a special format with a distinctive sound signal. The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) will make the decision to issue an alert, marking the endangered area, and automatically sending a message to everyone within or entering this area.
The '112' app, developed by the State Fire and Rescue Service, can also be used to receive notifications and warnings. Red and orange alerts are sent as cell broadcast signals, while the others are sent as SMS messages.
An information campaign is planned for November, followed by a public opinion poll in December, to increase awareness and understanding of this new system. It's important for residents to regularly update their phone's operating system to ensure they receive cell broadcast notifications correctly and in a timely manner.
Cell broadcast works similarly to radio, does not provide feedback, and does not interfere with normal communication. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take appropriate action during an emergency situation.
- The cell broadcast system in Latvia, a part of the EU-Alert emergency warning system, operates in compliance with the European Telecom Standards Institute (ETSI) and EU regulations under the EECC transposition.
- The cell broadcast technology, used for emergency alerts, sends messages in Latvian and sometimes English to mobile phones during crises, working effectively even during network congestion.
- In addition to the '112' app, residents can also receive cell broadcast notifications on their smartphones during emergencies, similar to how radio broadcasts operate.
- Beyond emergency alerts, the cell broadcast system in Latvia, which functions across all generations of mobile networks, can also be utilized for broadcasting general-news, finance, technology, science, and media updates to the public.
