We are pleased to announce the publication of ETSI TS 103 478 v1.3.1, the latest evolution of the PEMEA (PSAP Emergency Mobile Enhanced Access) standard. This update brings several important enhancements that strengthen interoperability between emergency apps and 112 call centres, especially when users are roaming across Europe.
By adopting these new features, app developers and Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) can:
- Seamlessly share richer network data across 4G/5G networks
- Initiate server-to-client callbacks through the PEMEA protocol
- Gracefully terminate emergency sessions in a standardized way
- Benefit from improved documentation consistency and clarity
We invite all stakeholders to review the full ETSI TS 103 478 v1.3.1 specification and begin planning necessary updates. As always, PEMEA Consortium members are on hand to provide implementation guidance, best practices, and conformance testing support.
Below is a closer look at what’s newly available in v1.3.1:
1. New PSAP Interface Module (PIM) – Clause 4.2.5
The PSAP Interface Module (PIM) was referenced in some PEMEA extensions but was not described in the core specification.
This “PIM” component has been depicted in clause 4.2.5.
2. Enhanced Cellular Network Information – EDS Extensions
Section 10.3 has been expanded to include 4G and 5G network parameters in the Emergency Data Structure (EDS).
Applications can now transmit the cell-ID information for newer network types.
These additions empower PSAPs to better locate callers, assess connection quality, and adapt resource allocation, especially important in border-spanning or high-mobility scenarios.
3. PEMEA Callback Capability – Clause 17
A brand-new Callback feature lets PSAPs proactively reach back out to an app user using the PEMEA protocol itself, rather than falling back to traditional telephony. Highlights include:
- Standardized callback request/response message formats
- Secure session initiation from PSAP to app — leveraging existing PEMEA authentication and encryption
- Use cases such as follow-up on dropped calls, additional location queries, or status checks
This capability closes the loop, giving PSAPs more reliable means to maintain contact when seconds count.
4. Standardized Session Termination Signalling
Both PSAPs and emergency apps can now explicitly signal the end of an emergency session via the PEMEA control plane. This addition:
- Ensures clean release of media channels (voice, video)
- Prevents dangling sessions and frees up resources more quickly
- Provides a clear, auditable log entry that the emergency interaction has concluded
By exchanging termination messages, both ends maintain full clarity on call state, improving operational efficiency.
5. Editorial Improvements and Example Cleanup
To make the standard easier to read and implement, the updated version has:
- Corrected typos throughout the document
- Unified tabulation and color-coding in all message-flow diagrams and JSON/XML examples
- Ensured consistent formatting for all tables and figures
These refinements reduce reader friction and help developers pinpoint exactly what has changed from earlier versions.
Download: https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_ts/103400_103499/103478/01.03.01_60/ts_103478v010301p.pdf
