- Software will use country’s early warning system to send messages
By Chris Slack
Last updated at 9:30 AM on 23rd August 2011
The latest version of Apple’s iPhone iOS operating system will come with an earthquake warning system for Japanese users.
The update to the software, which is due next month, will add the feature to the phone in its notification centre.
Users can simply opt in or out of being constantly connected to the warning system.
Warning: This message is part of an update to Japanese iPhones that will tell users of an impending earthquake up to two minutes before
If they choose to opt in for the warnings, they will receive a message warning of a disaster up to two minutes before it occurs.
But in some cases the message will come through just seconds before.
When in use the system displays a message, pictured above.
Update: The software is part of the iPhone’s latest iOS operating system, which is due next month
It reads: ‘The earthquake early warning/alert. when the setting is on, your battery life may be reduced.’
Currently all 3G phones in Japan are compelled by law to include the mass cell broadcast technology to warn of a potential quake.
But handsets made outside of the country do not currently support it.
The mass cell broadcast technology, known as SMS-CB, sends a text message to all users within an area to warn of an impending disaster.
Warnings are also issued through radio and television using the Area Mail Disaster Information Service.
The new technology uses Japan’s sophisticated early warning system to take readings from 1,000 seismic sensors.
The move means Japanese residents will no longer have to use app store products such as Yurekuru Call.
Previously Steve Jobs, the Apple chief executive, said that the company would offer support to employees affected by March’s earthquake and tsunami.
More than 16,000 people died when the magnitude 9.0 quake hit on March 11.