Silent but Strong: What PIOs Need to Know About the FCC’s 2025 Wireless Alert Changes

When the Federal Communications Commission adopted updates to the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) system in early 2025, many Public Information Officers and Public Affairs Officers (PI/AOs) recognized an important shift in how emergency notifications are crafted and delivered. These changes are more than technical updates. They represent a move toward smarter, more intentional communication with the public.

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of silent alerts. For the first time, PI/AOs can issue WEA messages that appear on mobile devices without triggering the usual loud tone or vibration. This option is especially useful for late-night updates, public safety guidance, or follow-up messages that do not require an urgent wake-up. The ability to send non-disruptive messages helps reduce alert fatigue and allows agencies to maintain public trust without causing unnecessary alarm.

Another important development is the FCC’s new definition of what qualifies as a WEA-capable mobile device. Starting September 15, 2025, any phone advertised with that label must support the full range of alert functions, including silent alerts. This brings more consistency across devices and ensures that public safety messages are received as intended. It also holds manufacturers and wireless providers accountable for meeting national standards.

In addition to these changes, the FCC is reviewing public feedback on proposals that would give users more control over how they receive alerts. If adopted, these changes would allow people to customize their alert settings based on message type. For PI/AOs, this could lead to greater engagement, as messages will feel more relevant and less intrusive.

So what can PIO/AOs do to adapt and take advantage of these changes?

To prepare, PI/AOs should take several practical steps to integrate these updates into their operations.

First, review and revise your agency’s alert protocols. Establish clear criteria for when to use silent alerts. For example, a traffic advisory at midnight may not need to wake people up, while a severe weather warning still should. Training staff on this decision-making process will help ensure that the tone of each alert matches the urgency of the situation.

Second, work with your alert software provider and emergency management partners to test the new features. Run test alerts on a variety of mobile devices to confirm that silent messages display correctly. This is also a good time to update documentation and internal training materials. Testing early reduces the risk of confusion during an actual incident.

Third, take time to educate your stakeholders and the public. As new phones are sold with updated alert capabilities, people may notice differences in how messages arrive. Explain that silent alerts are intentional and are part of a modern, user-friendly approach to public safety communication. Share this information with elected officials, agency staff, and community organizations so they can help spread the word.

The 2025 WEA changes give PI/AOs more flexibility and more control. These tools can help agencies issue alerts that are better aligned with real-world needs and public expectations. By updating protocols, testing technology, and communicating proactively, PI/AOs can make the most of these improvements and continue to keep their communities informed, safe, and confident in local emergency response systems.