On August 28, 2026, the Federal Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Mexico published a comprehensive amendment to Technical Provision IFT-011-2022, which sets the technical requirements for mobile terminal equipment (MTE) regarding the reception and processing of emergency alerts via the Cellular Broadcast Service (CBS).

This amendment aims to enhance public alert mechanisms, aligning Mexican regulations with international standards and best practices observed in countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Brazil. Key changes include the assignment of specific channels for different types of alerts (earthquakes, other phenomena, preventive notices, Amber Alerts, tests, and exercises) in Spanish, indigenous languages, and English.

The regulation introduces new display formats and technical requirements for audible signals and vibration patterns, enabling users to immediately identify the nature and severity of an event, even if the device is in silent mode. The amendment also prohibits users from disabling the reception of maximum and preventive civil protection alerts.

Detailed laboratory test methods are established to verify compliance with the new requirements, including the verification of audible signals and vibration patterns, as well as the impossibility of disabling critical alerts through device settings.

The regulation updates references to international standards, adopting the latest version of ETSI TS 123 041 V19.3.0 (2026-02), and adjusts certification and homologation procedures for mobile terminal equipment. The amendment will enter into force 60 calendar days after its publication.

Certification bodies and test laboratories must update their accreditations and authorizations accordingly, and holders of conformity and homologation certificates must initiate update processes or notify technical impossibility as appropriate. Transitional provisions address the surveillance and extension of certificates and the training of accreditation bodies.

The reform directly affects manufacturers, importers, operators, certification bodies, test laboratories, and end users of mobile terminal equipment in Mexico.

Impact

Impact assessment: High.

Key reasons: Mandatory new technical requirements for all mobile terminal equipment regarding emergency alert reception and processing.; Introduction of new test methods and updated certification/homologation procedures.; Prohibition on disabling critical alerts, requiring device software and hardware changes.; Direct effect on certification bodies, test labs, manufacturers, importers, and operators.; Alignment with updated international standards (ETSI TS 123 041 V19.3.0).

Who is affected?

Manufacturers, importers, certification bodies, test laboratories, mobile network operators, and end users of mobile terminal equipment.

Conclusion:

All stakeholders involved in the approval, importation, sale, and operation of mobile terminal equipment in Mexico must review and adapt to the new requirements to ensure continued market access and regulatory compliance.