Why can't Google Earthquake Alerts be activated on an iPhone in Colombia, and what alternatives exist?

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake with an epicenter in the Chocó department of Colombia recently caused widespread alarm and structural damage across various regions of the country. The seismic event lasted over a minute, prompting public concern regarding the effectiveness and availability of early warning systems on mobile devices.

While Google’s Android operating system features an integrated earthquake alert tool designed to provide seconds of warning before seismic waves arrive, many users in Colombia reported not receiving these notifications. Furthermore, iPhone users in the country lack a native equivalent to the Android system. These limitations are not due to device settings or outdated software, but rather reflect fundamental differences in how mobile platforms implement earthquake detection and alert technologies.