Sweden Conducts Major Test of New SE-Alert Emergency Mobile Warning System

At 3:00 PM on September 7, 2026, Sweden carried out the first nationwide test of the SE-Alert emergency mobile warning system, targeting approximately 2.6 million mobile phones in Stockholm and Gotland. This new system, developed by the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency in collaboration with SOS Alarm, the Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS), and mobile operators, uses cell broadcast technology to send emergency alerts directly to mobile phones without requiring an internet connection, an app, or registration.

During the test, all updated smartphones in the designated regions emitted a loud warning sound for ten seconds at maximum volume, vibrated, and displayed an important emergency message on the screen. The alarm sounded even on phones set to silent mode. The test also impacted mobile users in adjacent counties such as Uppsala, Södermanland, and Västmanland due to signal reach. For those without smartphones, critical emergency information continues to be accessible via radio, television, SMS, and the traditional outdoor alarm system, Hesa Fredrik.

Smartphones had to meet minimum software requirements to receive the alert: iPhones needed iOS 26.5 or later on hardware version 11 or newer, while Android devices had to run version 13 or later, updated by June or after. The geographic targeting feature of the system allows for precise distribution of alerts within affected areas.

However, concerns were raised by Roks, an organization supporting women exposed to violence, regarding the test. They warned that the loud alarm on even hidden phones could expose women in violent relationships who rely on concealed devices for safety. Roks advised these women to turn off their phones during the test to avoid detection.

The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency plans to conduct further tests, with the next scheduled possibly in December. This initial trial aimed to ensure the system’s effectiveness in real emergency situations and is a significant step toward enhancing public safety with timely alerts directly on personal mobile devices.