Manila's Government is Using FireChat for Future Natural Disasters
Christopher Magsambol — October 13, 2015 — Tech
Internet-Independent app FireChat will soon be used by residents in the Philippines as an emergency messaging platform during natural disasters. The app is a simple messaging tool that allows for group conferences or individual messages to be sent by users even without an Internet connection. Often times in natural disasters, communication signals are broken down causing more havoc and uncertainty for victims.
To combat this recurring issue, the government of the Philippines is encouraging people to download the app which can ultimately be life-saving. The app works best when at least 5 percent of the population is logged on and this project hopes to get as many people involved to ensure a stronger network. Essentially, the government hopes to create a mesh or chain throughout the entire city to ensure everyone is connected. Ironically, FireChat has been used to subvert government control, but in this case, its communicative powers are seen as a benefit for all.
To combat this recurring issue, the government of the Philippines is encouraging people to download the app which can ultimately be life-saving. The app works best when at least 5 percent of the population is logged on and this project hopes to get as many people involved to ensure a stronger network. Essentially, the government hopes to create a mesh or chain throughout the entire city to ensure everyone is connected. Ironically, FireChat has been used to subvert government control, but in this case, its communicative powers are seen as a benefit for all.
Trend Themes
1. Internet-independent Apps - Opportunity to develop new apps that can function without an Internet connection, providing reliable communication during natural disasters.
2. Emergency Messaging Platforms - Potential for creating highly secure and efficient messaging platforms dedicated to emergency situations.
3. Mesh Networking - Disruptive innovation opportunity to develop mesh networking technology that can connect individuals and communities in areas with limited or no Internet infrastructure.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Technology companies can explore developing innovative solutions for emergency communication methods.
2. Disaster Management - Opportunity for organizations in the disaster management industry to integrate emergency messaging apps into their communication strategies.
3. Government/public Sector - Governments can leverage emergency messaging apps to enhance their response capabilities during natural disasters.
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