How many pagers are in circulation?
Despite the dominance of smartphones, millions of pagers are still in use around the world. Their resistance to obsolescence is due to their reliability, particularly in rural areas and critical contexts. They are particularly used in sectors where fast and uninterrupted communication is crucial.
Who still uses pagers and why?
Pagers are primarily used by hospitals, emergency services, and first responders. Their independence from mobile and internet networks makes them reliable: pagers can work even if cellular networks are overloaded or down. Medical personnel prefer them for their speed and ease of use. Receiving an audible or visual alert in the event of an emergency remains a valuable feature, especially in environments where every second counts.
How do they work?
Pagers work using radio waves. To activate them, a base station sends a signal to a pager, which then produces an alert sound, light, or vibration. Pagers with a screen can also display a short text message. Pagers operate using removable batteries or an internal battery. Many models last up to a week without needing to be recharged.
How did they explode in Lebanon?
PHOTO ANWAR AMRO, AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE ARCHIVES
Civil commotion around the American University of Beirut hospital after the simultaneous explosion of pagers across Lebanon on September 17
According to the New York Timesciting US officials, Israeli intelligence reportedly intercepted thousands of Taiwanese-made pagers before they arrived in Lebanon. They allegedly hid small quantities of explosives and a detonator next to the battery. Then, on September 17, they allegedly detonated a remote-controlled explosion. Israeli intelligence reportedly managed to infiltrate Hezbollah’s supply chain to plan the attack, according to AFP. On Wednesday, hundreds of walkie-talkies exploded in Lebanon, killing around 30 people and injuring more than 450.