UK to Blast Emergency Alert Test to Nearly Every Mobile Phone in 2025
Get ready for a jolt—next year, almost every smartphone in the UK will suddenly emit a loud, 10-second siren and show an immediate warning message right on the screen. That’s because the government is running the latest—and last—UK emergency alert test of 2025, a drill that could reach tens of millions of people all at once. The exact date isn’t out yet, but officials say it’s an important step before moving to a “once every two years” schedule for these phone-based alarms.
It’s not their first rodeo. The system launched back in 2023 and has buzzed the pockets of the UK public several times since. Past runs reached about 9 out of 10 phones that were eligible—meaning modern devices with up-to-date software and access to 4G or 5G networks. There were some hiccups, though, especially for those on Three Mobile during the first 2023 trial. Some never saw the notification, while others experienced delays. Tweaks since then have improved performance, and most users now get the alert instantly unless their phone is off, in airplane mode, or stuck on a 2G or 3G connection.
These alerts are made to cut through distractions. They’ll sound even if your device is on silent or do-not-disturb. That’s deliberate—when time is tight and danger is real, officials don't want you missing critical information because your phone was muted. But, the system isn’t intrusive for everyone. If you’d rather avoid the next test, you can turn off emergency alerts in device settings. iPhones have an ‘Extreme and severe alerts’ toggle under Notifications, while Android users can browse to Emergency Alerts in Settings.
Why Bother? The Real Reason for the Siren
This isn’t just about checking a box. The government sees these alerts as key for public safety and disaster readiness. In a real emergency—think major floods, severe storms, or even terror threats—these alerts would bring not just a siren, but useful, clear instructions. That might mean where to shelter, when to evacuate, or how to avoid danger. During a wild weather spell in December 2024, for example, people in Scotland received warnings for Storm Darragh through the service. It’s been used four times since launch—with each test or real alert, officials gather feedback to make the process sharper and less prone to technical slip-ups.
Not everyone welcomes a sudden blaring alarm out of the blue. Some worry about panic or false alarms, especially after seeing how similar systems play out in places like the US, Canada, or Japan—where alerts are used for earthquakes, hurricanes, and public safety threats. The UK’s Cabinet Office is keen to calm nerves, though: this system is about readiness, not stoking fear. Their spokesperson says the goal is simple—build national resilience and save lives if disaster ever does strike.
As we inch toward 2025, it’s a good time for mobile users to check their settings, know what to expect, and talk with family about what these alerts mean. When the siren does eventually blast across the country, millions more will be ready—and maybe just a little less startled the next time their phone comes alive with warning.
