Alert text messaging feature

GroupTalk PC Dispatcher now makes it easier for dispatchers to get urgent information across with Alert Text Messaging. Unlike standard messages, alert messages are displayed in red and accompanied by a loud signal, immediately grabbing the recipient’s attention.

On iOS devices, the alert sound plays even if the phone is on silent or “Do Not Disturb” mode, reducing the risk of missed messages — critical for safety and emergency services.

This feature clearly differentiates normal communications from high-priority messages. Normal messages are used for everyday coordination, while alert messages are designed for critical situations where immediate response is required. Alerts can be sent to groups or individuals, ensuring teams react quickly and efficiently in emergencies.

Quick setup and step-by-step guide

Alert Text Messaging is available to all dispatch users with the text messaging feature enabled in GroupTalk Web Admin. To enable it:

1. Navigate to PTT Groups, select a group, click Messaging → Activate messaging in this group → Update.
2. Go to User Categories → Dispatch users → PTT groups in this category, enable Messaging for the selected group, and click Update. Repeat for mobile users as needed.

To send an Alert Text Message via PC Dispatcher:

1. Log in to the GroupTalk PC Dispatcher.
2. Open the Groups panel and join the desired PTT group.
3. Click the box with an arrow labeled “Open in new panel.”
4. Click the text message icon (“Show messages”) in the upper-right corner.
5. Select “Alert message”, write your message, and send it to the group.
6. To send a private alert to an individual, go to the Contacts panel, find the recipient, and follow steps 3–5.

Note: After sending an alert, the feature automatically switches back to Normal message. To send another alert, manually switch back to Alert mode.