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In an era dominated by smartphones and instant messaging apps, it may come as a surprise that pagers, once a staple of communication for professionals in the 1980s and 1990s, still hold relevance in 2024. Despite being overshadowed by more versatile mobile devices, these simple yet reliable tools continue to serve specific purposes in the UAE and beyond.

The Enduring Appeal of Pagers

Experts interviewed by Khaleej Times highlight several reasons why pagers remain in use:

1. Safety and Security: Pagers operate on private networks, disconnected from public systems like PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network). This isolation makes them less vulnerable to hacking or surveillance.
2. Reliability in Low-Signal Areas: In locations where mobile phone coverage is problematic, pagers can still function effectively.
3. Simplicity: Their straightforward design and functionality make them easy to use in high-pressure environments.
4. Low Power Requirements: Pagers consume minimal energy compared to smartphones, enhancing their reliability.

Who Still Uses Pagers?

While no longer common for everyday use, pagers find application in specific industries:

• Healthcare: Hospitals often use pagers to summon doctors in emergencies, valuing their reliability in areas with limited cellular coverage.
• Emergency Services: First responders may rely on pagers for quick, reliable communication.
• Industries with Signal Limitations: Sectors operating in areas with poor mobile reception might prefer pagers for essential communications.

Safety Considerations

Rayad Kamal Ayub, a Dubai-based IT security expert, emphasises that pagers are generally safe when used as intended. However, he cautions:

“We should buy our electronics from a known source and not from the grey market without warranties or source of inventory.”

This advice comes in light of recent events in Lebanon, where modified pagers were allegedly used as improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Pagers vs. Smartphones: A Comparative Look

While pagers offer certain advantages, it’s important to consider their limitations:

Advantages of Pagers:

• Minimal electronic footprint
• Work on radio waves without internet or cellular networks
• Generally safer from hacking attempts

Limitations:

• Messages are not encrypted
• Can be intercepted more easily than digital phone communications
• Limited functionality compared to smartphones

The Future of Pagers in the UAE

As we move further into the digital age, the role of pagers in the UAE and globally will likely remain niche but significant. Their continued use in specific sectors underscores the importance of having diverse communication tools to meet various needs.

While smartphones dominate personal and professional communication, the humble pager serves as a reminder that sometimes, simpler technology can offer unique benefits in terms of reliability and security.

As Rex Bacarra, a UAE-based university professor, aptly puts it:

“The question is: Does the benefit outweigh the cost? Mobile phones are currently indispensable due to their features that benefit people, more than the risks associated with them. The same goes for pagers.”

In conclusion, while you’re unlikely to see many pagers on the streets of Dubai or Abu Dhabi in 2024, these devices continue to play a vital role behind the scenes in critical sectors, proving that there’s still a place for this seemingly outdated technology in our modern world.