Omdia Crit Comms Circle

In this episode, we dive into the often overlooked but critical topic of physical security for the infrastructure that supports our essential communication services: the towers, cables, and network sites that must remain operational for public safety, emergency services, and other vital sectors.  As critical communications increasingly rely on commercial mobile networks, questions of ownership, responsibility, and resilience become more urgent. What happens when a tower is vandalized, or a cable is sabotaged? Who's in charge of protecting these assets?  To unpack this complex topic, we’re joined by three expert guests who contributed to TCCA’s newly released white paper: “Legal and Regulatory Aspects Relating to the Physical Security of the Telecommunications Infrastructure Used for Critical Communication Services”. Together, we explore how different countries are approaching this challenge—and why harmonized regulation might be the key to future resilience.  In this episode we touch on:Why physical infrastructure security deserves more attention The transition from government-owned to commercial networks—and what that means Legal, operational, and contractual frameworks for ensuring infrastructure protection Insights from Finland, Norway, and the UK on national approaches The challenges of regulation, transparency, and vendor involvement How Europe and beyond can move toward harmonized minimum standards The role of mobile network operators (MNOs)—and why they need to be part of the conversation A big thanks to our guests for this episode:Lasantha De Alwis – Telecoms Policy and Regulation Lead, UK Home Office Emergency Services Mobile Communication Programme Nina Myren – Specialist Director, Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB); Chair, TCCA Legal and Regulatory Working Group Kari Junttila – Development Manager, Erillisverkot (Finland’s State Security Network Operator) Related Resource:TCCA White Paper: Legal and Regulatory Aspects Relating to the Physical Security of Telecommunications Infrastructure for Critical Communications Key takeaway: Physical security is not just a local issue—it’s a global challenge. As critical communications ride on commercial infrastructure, it’s time for governments, regulators, and MNOs to collaborate and treat physical protection with the same urgency as cybersecurity. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we take you inside the halls of BAPCO 2025 in Coventry —the event that really kicks off the public safety tech calendar for the year. From groundbreaking AI and control room innovations to the growing buzz around mission-critical broadband, We feature on-the-ground insights and commentary from the vendors shaping the future of public safety. Plus, we share our key takeaways from a show full of cautious optimism. Direct updates from major vendors including:Motorola Solutions – GuardianX branding, Call Assist AI, officer-initiated facial recognition, and a connected motorbike Hexagon – Browser-based control tools, VR experiments, and a unified platform approach Frequentis – Their growing UK presence, control room integration, and role in the ESN consortium NEC (formerly SSS) – Exciting AI-driven control room features and expanded mobile capabilities Zetron – Soft-launch of their UK-focused CAD platform and global AI aspirations We also touch on:AI usage across the control room – practical uses, guardrails, and the human-in-the-loop approach The ESN relaunch – What’s different this time and why there's real momentum behind it Gaps still needing attention – notably, the device ecosystem and end-user readiness Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore one of the most transformative trends in critical communications and enterprise markets—digital transformation. This discussion unpacks how digitalization is reshaping mission-critical industries, including public safety, utilities, and transportation, and the key design principles enabling this shift: cloud-native and automation. To help tackle this topic we are joined by Prakash Sadagopan, Global Head of Enterprise, Cloud and Network Services at Nokia. As the leader for Enterprise business, Prakash is responsible for Go-to-market initiatives and Business transformation to deliver digital transformation outcomes to Enterprise Customers globally. Key Takeaways: Digital transformation is no longer optional—it is a necessity for mission-critical organizations. Cloud-native designs, automation, and AI-driven efficiencies are the pillars of modern critical communication networks. Trust and security remain top priorities, and a zero-trust approach is crucial in today’s evolving landscape. Organizations must start their transformation journey with scalable, adaptable solutions that ensure long-term resilience and agility. Learn more about Nokia’s approach to digital transformation: www.nokia.com/industries/core-enterprise-solutions/ Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we highlight some of the recent findings from Omdia's latest market research covering the Broadband Critical Communications and the Body Worn Camera & DEMS markets. Key Takeaways: Get Involved: Participate in the Emerging Critical Tech and Innovation Survey 2025. Your input will shape industry insights and help bridge the gap between vendors and end users. Evolving Market: The transition to broadband in critical communications is a methodical evolution, with critical milestones expected by the early 2030s. AI and Video Tech: The integration of AI in video management (e.g., automated transcription) is revolutionizing the use of body-worn cameras in both public safety and commercial sectors. Links Mentioned: Emerging Critical Tech and Innovation Survey 2025 — Make your voice heard and receive a summary report once we closer the survey. British APCO 2025 Event — Join us to hear the initial survey results. Omdia's Latest Research Reports — Learn more about Broadband Critical Communications and Body-Worn Cameras. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore the transformative - and potentially disruptive - impact of audio deepfake technology in public safety.  We're joined by Dr. Salma Ait Farès, Technical Research Chair at InterTalk, and James Birchall, Director of Technology at InterTalk. Key Topics Covered Understanding Deepfake Technology: We talk about what deepfake technology is, and provide demonstrations of deepfake audio examples that showcase the emotional realism AI can generate. Implications for Public Safety: Exploring the potential risks deepfake technology poses to emergency services, including false reports, swatting incidents, and the challenges of detecting synthetic audio without visual cues. Ethical and Beneficial Uses: Highlighting positive applications of audio synthesis, such as enhancing accessibility, real-time language translation, and improving dispatcher training in high-stress environments. Resources & Links Learn more about InterTalk: https://intertalksystems.com/ Register for IWCE 2025 to attend Dr. Farès’ panel discussion: Smart Control Rooms: Detecting Deepfakes and Emotions with AI Participate in the 2025 Emerging Critical Technology Survey for critical communications: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8110325/3609a0d72b8d Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore how Guilford Metro 911 is upgrading its' emergency response through Hexagon's advanced dispatch platform, featuring AI-enhanced collaboration and predictive analytics. Joining us are Tammy Heaton, Vice President of Customer Success at Hexagon Safety, Infrastructure, and Geospatial Division, and Melanie Jones, Executive Director at Guilford Metro 911 and President of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). Together, we discuss: The current landscape of Guilford Metro 911, serving multiple agencies and handling over 728,000 calls annually. The challenges of operating a 1990s-era Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. The decision-making process behind selecting Hexagon’s browser-based, AI-enabled platform. How AI and modern technology are reshaping workflows, resource allocation, and situational awareness for dispatchers and first responders. Lessons learned from the ongoing implementation and key takeaways for others considering CAD upgrades. Key Takeaways: The Shift to Modern Technology: Guilford Metro’s transition to Hexagon’s AI-powered CAD platform marks a significant upgrade from its decades-old system, enabling better remote access, user-friendly interfaces, and powerful AI capabilities. AI in Action: Hexagon’s platform leverages AI for predictive analysis, trend identification, and real-time decision support, allowing dispatchers to focus on critical tasks without being overwhelmed by redundant calls or data. Collaborative Implementation: A diverse team of stakeholders, including dispatchers, IT specialists, and first responders, ensures the new system aligns with the agency's operational needs. Future-Proofing Emergency Response: AI is already transforming non-emergency call management, freeing up resources for emergencies—a trend poised to grow in the coming years. Resources & Links: Hexagon Public Safety: hxgnpublicsafety.com – Learn more about Hexagon’s OnCall Dispatch platform and other public safety solutions. Guilford Metro 911: Follow Guilford Metro 911 on LinkedIn. NENA (National Emergency Number Association): Stay updated with NENA initiatives on LinkedIn. Follow Our Guests: Tammy Heaton – Vice President, Hexagon:LinkedIn Melanie Jones – Executive Director, Guilford Metro 911: Find Melanie on Facebook at Melanie Jones, RPL, EMP, CPE CMCP. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we take a look at the year ahead and what we're expecting, or wanting, to see for the critical communicaitons industry through 2025. We're joined by: Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst, Industrial & Government Critical Communications at Omdia Erin LeMoine, Director, Events for Informa Tech Government Portolio Donny Jackson, Editor at Urgent Communications Mladen Vratonjic, Chairman of the Board, TCCA Tero Pesonen, Chairman, Critical Communications Broadband Group, TCCA Check out Omdia's "2025 Trends to Watch: Smart Infrastructure" document here: 2025 Trends to Watch: Smart Infrastructure Key topics we discuss for 2025 include: IWCE 2025 Returning to Las Vegas, March 17-20, 2025, one week earier than usual. New tracks focused on school and campus safety. Networking roundtables and a special Vintage Vegas Reception. Broadband Adoption and EvolutionFrom planning to tendering, 2025 marks a transition from planning stages to actionable implementations for broadband technologies. Service providers' role, telecoms operators are key players in ensuring reliability and security for public safety and critical communications users. Emerging Trends in TechnologyBody worn cameras and the rise of on-device AI for advanced functionalities like facial recognition and situational awareness. PSAP's and AI, device-driven incidents are pushing AI adoption in control rooms to manage alerts efficiently. Mission-Critical Push-to-Talk (MCPTT) potential breakthroughs in adoption and implementation. Industry Mega-Trends5G expansion supporting critical applications like video, situational awareness, and AI-driven edge communications. NG911 developments, while progress is slow, 2025 could be pivotal for next-generation emergency response systems. Future of Transportation CommunicationsWe spotlight FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communicaitons System) and its role in modernizing railway communications. Resources & Links: Trends for 2025 Report: Explore our comprehensive document highlighting key industry forecasts.2025 Trends to Watch: Smart Infrastructure IWCE 2025 Details: Visit https://iwceexpo.com/ for more info. Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025: Mark your calendars for June in Brussels! https://www.critical-communications-world.com/ 2025 promises to be a transformative year for critical communications, with exciting advancements in AI, broadband, and next-gen systems. Stay tuned for more episodes where we dive deeper into these trends and hear from industry leaders shaping the future. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we take a comprehensive look back at the year 2024, a pivotal year in the critical communications industry. Joined by our colleagues Erin LeMoine and Donny Jackson, we reflect on the significant milestones, trends, and events that shaped the year. From industry conferences and technological innovations to emerging trends like satellite-to-device communications and the continued growth of broadband solutions, we explore it all. We also celebrate TCCA’s 30th anniversary, recognizing its contributions to standardization and mission-critical communication systems. "2024 has been a milestone year with significant progress across the globe, setting the stage for an exciting 2025." As we gear up for 2025, we’re excited about the momentum in the industry and the promising initiatives on the horizon. Key Topics Discussed: 2024 Market research content and contributions:Published 22 pieces of content, including 8 market databases, 7 market reports, and 6 annual market reports, with our market research spanning topics from M&A analysis, MCX adoption, and ecosystem heatmaps, through to the broadband critical communications market, the command and control room market, and the body worn cameras & DEMS markets. IWCE 2024 Recap:IWCE 2024 in Orlando saw record attendance, with highlights like the next-gen 911 (NG911) showcase as well as the satellite-direct-to-device keynote. Technological advancements:Growth in satellite direct-to-device technology, including initiatives by T-Mobile and Verizon. Evolution of deployable solutions, from backpacks to ruggedized Pelican cases, enhancing first-responder capabilities. Trends and challenges:The transition to broadband and the integration of hybrid solutions. Cybersecurity concerns, supply chain protection, and the importance of resilience in critical networks. The complexity of technological transitions, with examples from AI integration and next-gen 911 implementations. TCCA’s 30th Anniversary:Reflections on three decades of advancing standardized mission-critical technologies. Insights from Mladen Vratonjić and Tero Pesonen on TCCA's achievements and future goals. Links & Resources: Episode 58: Standards-based mission critical solutions become a reality TCCA’s 30th Anniversary Press Release: Read More IWCE 2025 Event Details: Register Here Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of command, control, and communication systems designed for situational awareness at large-scale operations, with a special focus on the 2024 Paris Olympics. Our guest is from the product innovation consultancy, Parallel Systems. Matt Falla joins us, Matt is an RCA-trained interaction designer with a career spanning boutique consulting, consumer electronics, and creative agencies. Matt shares insights from his team's pivotal role in designing and implementing a solution that ensured smooth transport operations and high-end service during one of the world’s most complex mega-events. Key Topics Covered:Background on Paris 2024 Operations: Learn how Matt’s team collaborated with On Location and specialized consultancies to design a transport operations system capable of managing thousands of guests and vehicles across 35 venues, involving 10,500 athletes, 45,000 volunteers, and millions of spectators. Challenges in Technology and People Management: Explore the complexity of mapping operational ecosystems, streamlining communication among diverse teams, and overcoming human reluctance toward technology adoption. Outcome-Driven Innovation: How focusing on safety, customer experience, and reputation informed the design of protocols and technology to ensure rapid response and seamless operations. Designing for Situational Awareness: Discover how tailoring information to the needs of specific roles enhanced decision-making, avoided information overload, and ensured effective communication across all levels of the organization. The Role of AI and Visual Tools: Insights into the future of situational awareness, with predictions on how AI and highly visual interfaces will simplify data processing and decision-making. Lessons Learned: Focus on real-world outcomes and design backward from those goals. Map the network of roles, relationships, and tasks (ontologies). Simplify complexity with visual tools. Deliver consumer-grade user experiences to enhance adoption and efficiency. Key Quotes:“More data doesn’t always mean better decisions. Knowing exactly what the weather is in one square meter won’t necessarily improve situational awareness.” “Make it as easy and pain-free as possible to use the system. A well-designed solution should improve both day-to-day tasks and emergency responses.” “Think of orchestration: just like in music, you need different instruments for a complete sound but a conductor to focus attention where it’s needed most.” Learn more about Parallel Systems here: https://parallel.systems/ Join the Circle! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Share this with colleagues and friends interested in the future of critical communications. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we dive deep into the unique contributions and ongoing efforts of British APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials) within the critical communications industry. Our guest, Duncan Swan, is the Chief Operating Officer at British APCO, with 40 years' experience in public safety technology, focusing on strategic and technical advancements in emergency communications. The conversation touches on:The Significance of British APCO Events: British APCO’s annual event serves as a critical networking and collaboration opportunity for stakeholders across public safety agencies, technology vendors, and operators. Duncan explains how these events set the tone for industry-wide innovations and knowledge sharing. British APCO’s Role and Mission: Celebrating over 30 years since its founding, British APCO remains committed to fostering advancements in emergency services technology. As an independent charity, British APCO champions improved emergency services and communication technologies that support both frontline responders and the general public. Key Focus Areas:Next Generation Communications (NG999): Duncan discusses British APCO’s work on implementing NG999 in the UK, aiming to improve public safety through advanced data and video-sharing capabilities. AI Integration in Public Safety: British APCO is exploring AI applications for improving call response times, non-emergency call handling, and monitoring call quality for training and support. Emergency Services Network (ESN): Updates on the UK’s progress with ESN, which will provide a secure and interoperable network to enhance critical communications for emergency responders. International Collaboration through CC:IPS: British APCO’s collaboration with international public safety organizations such as the Collaborative Coalition for International Public Safety (CC:IPS) provides a platform for global knowledge exchange. This coalition helps UK agencies learn from advancements in public safety technology and protocols in other countries, such as AI use in the US and next-gen emergency response systems in Canada and Europe. The Path Forward for British APCO: Duncan highlights British APCO’s dedication to data-driven decision-making and supporting agencies through effective technology integration. The organization aims to enhance interoperability among UK emergency services and ensure they’re equipped with the best tools to make timely, informed decisions. Learn more about BAPCO here: https://www.bapco.org.uk/ Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we discuss the transormative role of cloud solutions in public safety. We hit on some common misconceptions about cloud migration, break down what multi-tenancy means in a cloud context, and hear actionabe insight for agencies considering cloud migration. Our guest, Rohan Galloway-Dawkins, is the Chief Product Officer at Versaterm and is responsible for developing an ecosystem of solutions focused on improving workflows for more efficient and effective operations, better service and more just outcomes. Rohan joined Versaterm in February 2022 and brings more than 19 years of experience in the public safety communications and software solutions industry. Key discussion points: Introduction to Versaterm and recent strategic acquisitions and expansions aimed at building a robust ecosystem that serves the entire public safety workflow, from dispatch to judicial processes. The power of cloud solutions and some common misconceptions about cloud migration, with emphasis that cloud-based CAD solutions offer the same user experience and functionality as on-premises solutions, but with added benefits in disaster recovery and operational flexibility. Understanding multi-tenancy solutions in a cloud context - allowing one application instance to serve multile customers securely and efficiently, and what the advantages are for both vendors and end-users. Advice for public safety agencies consdiering cloud migration. Focus on business outcome and user experience, rather than the technical architecture! Learn more about Versaterm here: https://www.versaterm.com/ Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we dive into the critical role of international collaboration within public safety and mission-critical communications. Our guest, Fredrik Ryberg is the Police Inspector and Head of RG2 at the Swedish Police Authority, shares valuable insights on the importance of reliable communications and the next generation of mission-critical communication systems. Fredrik brings over 16 years of experience in law enforcement and represents Sweden in the EU’s Mission Critical Communication Group (MCCG). He discusses Sweden’s communication framework, the transition from the trusted TETRA system to new broadband solutions like 5G, and how international collaboration can strengthen public safety efforts across borders. Listeners will learn about: The structure of the Swedish Police Authority and its reliance on communication networks like Rakel (TETRA). The future of mission-critical communications with the transition to Rakel Generation 2 (RG2). The role of reliable communications in enabling coordination during emergencies. How the Swedish Police is evolving to embrace new technologies like 5G and broadband for enhanced capabilities such as live video streaming and situational awareness. The complexities and benefits of collaborating with other agencies, industry partners, and across countries. Actionable Takeaways: Stay informed and involved in public safety communication advancements by attending industry conferences and engaging with experts. Recognize the importance of collaboration at multiple levels, from internal teams to international partnerships. Embrace new technologies that support better communication and collaboration in mission-critical scenarios. Learn more about the Swedish Police Authority and RG2 at MSB’s website. For updates on the EU Mission Critical Communication Group, visit the European Commission’s website. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore the role of AI in enhancing critical communication systems, particularly in high-stakes environments like public safety, emergency services, defense, and industrial operations. Clear, accurate, and fast communication in these sectors can often be the difference between life and death. Traditionally, these communication systems have relied on human operators and technology that can struggle in chaotic environments, leading to errors or delays. However, AI is revolutionizing this space, particularly in audio and voice applications. Our focus today is on noise reduction AI, which isolates human speech from noisy environments, ensuring vital messages are heard and acted upon without delay. To give our listeners a clearer idea of how AI can enhance communications, we include real audio examples demonstrating the difference between noisy and AI-enhanced speech. Joining us is our special guest, Mette Carstensen, CEO and co-founder of Augmented Hearing. Mette brings deep expertise in AI-powered noise reduction, with a background in biomedical engineering and psychoacoustics. She provides valuable insights into how AI can reduce noise in critical communications, allowing professionals in high-pressure environments to perform more efficiently. Key Topics Discussed: How AI-powered noise reduction filters out background noise and enhances speech intelligibility. Real-world examples of AI-enhanced audio clips to illustrate the technology's impact. The role of Edge AI in critical communications, offering fast, on-premises processing without the need for cloud systems. Applications of AI in emergency call centers (e.g., reducing stress for 112/911/999 call-takers). Future potential for AI in consumer and professional environments. Visit Augmented Hearing’s Website for more information. Follow Augmented Hearing on LinkedIn for updates: LinkedIn Page. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we discuss the results from the 2024 Emerging Critical Tech & Innovation Survey conducted by Omdia, in partnership with IWCE (https://iwceexpo.com/) This survey, which gathered insights from both end users and vendors in the critical communications industry, sheds light on how technology such as AI, IoT, 5G, and more are impacting this rapidly evolving sector.We explore key topics such as: The state of emerging technologies in critical communications as of 2023 How vendors and end users are approaching new technologies, and the differences in their perspectives Future potential technologies, including video analytics, rapid deployment solutions, and cybersecurity The budget constraints and sales targets from both sides of the industry The importance of bridging the gap between traditional LMR (Land Mobile Radio) systems and newer broadband technologies Key Takeaways: LMR remains the backbone of critical communications, but emerging technologies like 5G, AI, and IoT are starting to reshape the landscape. There is a significant difference between vendor sales targets and end user budgets, with vendors projecting more aggressive growth in 2024 than end users. The survey highlights the importance of understanding the nuances between different user groups, including public safety, utilities, transportation, and mission-critical operators. Video analytics, connected vehicles, and rapid deployment technologies are among the emerging solutions gaining traction. Cybersecurity remains a top priority, and the industry is in various stages of adoption, with end users evaluating and piloting new technologies like AI and IoT. **The full survey report will be available October 2024. Check back on this page for a link to download the summary report.** Thank You to Our Listeners! This survey wouldn’t have been possible without the participation of our community. We invite you to check out the results and stay tuned for our 2025 survey—make sure your voice is heard! Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In thi episode, we touch on how public safety's adoption of technology differs from enterprise segments, before diving into the world of Next Generation 911, or NG911, and its transformative impact on public safety communications. To help us with these two, intertwined topics, we are joined by Phil Rotheram. Phil is the Head of Strategic Sales at Atos Public Safety, and the current Chair of the NG911 Interoperability Task Force’s Financial Committee. He has more than 30 years of experience, with a deep and broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing emergency communications in the digital age we find ourselves in. My key takeaways from this episode: Public Safety Technology Adoption vs. Enterprise: The adoption of technology in public safety, specifically 911 communications, lags behind the enterprise sector. Public safety systems often use outdated technology, while the enterprise sector frequently updates its systems. Legacy Systems and Challenges: Many public safety systems still use old technologies from legacy telephone companies, which haven't evolved with modern advancements like smartphones. There are challenges in replacing these systems, especially in regions with limited funding. Cloud Adoption in Public Safety: There's a significant difference in cloud adoption between public safety and enterprise sectors. While public safety is slowly adopting cloud-based solutions, there are concerns about security and a reluctance to move away from physical systems. Next Generation 911 (NG911): NG911 represents a significant upgrade from traditional 911 systems, moving to IP-based systems that can handle voice, text, video, and data. The transition to NG911 is necessary but challenging due to funding and technical issues. Interoperability and Standards: There's a critical need for interoperability and standardization in public safety communications systems. The NG911 Interoperability Task Force aims to ensure systems meet standards and work together effectively. Funding and Implementation Challenges: Funding is a major barrier to implementing NG911 and upgrading public safety technologies. Smaller states and counties struggle with the costs, and there's a need for consistent funding and support. Industry Awareness and User Confidence: There's a need for better understanding and communication within the industry regarding new technologies, like cloud solutions. Public safety practitioners should not fear adopting new technologies, as they offer significant improvements. Thanks again to Phil Rotheram for joining us to talk about these topics. Connect with Phil on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philrotheram/ Find out more about Atos Public Safety here: https://atos.net/en/solutions/command-control-systems/public-safety Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we talk about broadband innovations in the world of TETRA. We discuss the recent innovation from Motorola Solutions, specifically the launch of the DIMETRA Connect solution along with the MXP660 TETRA radio, and how these technologies are enhancing critical communications. We're joined by 2 special guests from Motorola Solutions: Katja Millard, Corporate Vice President of Critical Communication Networks Stuart Longley, the TETRA device portfolio product leader. Key Takeaways include: TETRA's proven reliability from decades of relaibly serving the needs of mission critical communications. But TETRA continues to adapt and evolve to meet modern needs. Introducing DIMETRA Connect and the MXP660 radio - how these innovative technologies integrate TETRA with broadband technologies to enhance communication reliability and coverage. Benefits of hybrid communication solutions - the advantage of combining TERA and broadband in a seamless manner. My personal highlights include Katja and Stuart sharing their insights into the design and strategic thinking behind DIMETRA Connect and the MXP660, as well as the discussion around the importance of indoor and dense urban area coverage. Really good to see the ability to leverage Wi-Fi, broadband and TETRA on one device for seamless voice communication. Visit Motorola Solutions for more information on DIMETRA Connect and the MXP660 radio discussed in this episode. Download the latest TETRA Terminals report, exclusive to Omdia subscribers, on the Omdia website: TETRA Terminals – 2024 Analysis. Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we delve into the Global Certification Forum's (GCF) recent launch of the Mission Critical Services (MCS) certification program. Specifically, we learn a little more about its certification program and how it differs with other testing alternatives, what different stakeholders need to do regarding Mission Critical Push-to-Talk certification, whether you are a customer or end-user, a vendor, or even involved in the regulatory side of the space. We are joined by Dr. Fidel Liberal, a well-recognized expert in Mission Critical communications. He works as professor yin the University of the Basque Country where he leads different mission critical communications and 5G related R&D projects. Among others, he is the coordinator of the Mission Critical Open Platform (MCOP) and leads the MCS TaaSting project, aimed at providing flexible testing as a service mechanisms for MCS certification. As a result of his intense advocacy activity in Mission Critical communications, he is involved with most relevant stakeholders in the sector including TCCA, NIST/PSCR, EENA, PSCE, and standardization and certification bodies such as ITU-T, 3GPP, ETSI and GCF. My key takeaways from this episode: Certification Importance and Impact: The certification is a significant advancement for the mission-critical industry, promoting a healthier, more open, and interoperable ecosystem. It represents a major step in establishing standards-based solutions and compliance with 3GPP standards, ensuring that mission-critical solutions are reliable and meet high-quality standards. Certification Process Overview: The process set by GCF for certification involves technical evaluations using a specific testing platform and adherence to a harmonized set of test cases accepted by the industry. This ensures that MCS clients and devices comply with the required standards and that the certification is recognized industry-wide. Stakeholder Responsibilities: Different stakeholders, including vendors, customers, and regulatory bodies, have specific roles in adopting and implementing the certification standards. Vendors must ensure their products are certified, while customers should verify that vendors have the necessary certifications when making purchasing decisions. Industry Adoption and Future Plans: The certification is the first step toward broader compliance and standardization in mission-critical services, with future plans to include additional components like MC data and MC video. The ongoing development aims to enhance interoperability and compliance across the industry, ultimately supporting a multi-vendor ecosystem. Want to learn more about how to get your product certified? Check out the upcoming GCF MCX Certification Programme Overview webinar on July 9th 14:00 - 15:00 BST. iRegister here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ae800e0d-7f33-4064-8f11-3cd1a650ca61@ebb485f7-c7f5-4d73-b3ca-f8b6328be0e5 Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we delve into eMBMS (evolved multimedia broadcast multicast service), focusing on its applications within nationwide broadband communication networks, particularly for emergency and public safety use. We are joined by Peter Clemons, an expert in critical communications, who discusses how eMBMS bridges the gap between traditional broadcast and unicast technologies, offering efficient, synchronized group communications vital for public safety scenarios. Peter highlights the transition from older systems like TETRA to broadband solutions, emphasizing eMBMS's role in enhancing spectrum and energy efficiency. He explains the technical components of eMBMS, and its implementation on devices enabled at the chipset level by major suppliers. The discussion also touches on real-world applications and deployments, like the SafeNet project in Korea and public safety networks in Spain, illustrating eMBMS's effectiveness and the ongoing standard developments in 3GPP, ensuring its relevance in future 5G and 6G environments.  Key takeaways from this episode include: Efficient Communication for Public Safety: eMBMS provides an efficient solution for broadcasting to multiple users simultaneously, which is crucial for emergency and public safety communications. This efficiency is particularly vital in situations where quick and synchronized communication can affect outcomes, such as in emergency responses. Transition from Legacy Systems: The discussion highlighted the transition from traditional multicast systems like TETRA to more advanced broadband technologies that incorporate eMBMS. This shift is essential for modernizing public safety networks to leverage broader and more reliable communication capabilities. Technical Components and Implementation: Key technical aspects of eMBMS were explained, such as the roles of the Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BMSC), mbms Gateway, and Multi-cell Multicast Coordination Entity (MCE) within the network. The implementation on devices is supported at the chipset level by major manufacturers, ensuring wide compatibility and support. Real-world Applications and Deployments: The episode covered examples of eMBMS in action, like the SafeNet project in Korea and new deployments in Spain, showing its practical benefits and the growing adoption in public safety networks globally. Future Outlook and 3GPP Developments: Ongoing developments in 3GPP standards for eMBMS to support upcoming network generations like 5G and 6G were discussed. The future of eMBMS looks promising with continual enhancements that will further integrate it into public safety and critical communication networks. Critical Role in Future Networks: The conversation underlined eMBMS's pivotal role in future communication networks, emphasizing the need for continued development and standardization to ensure it meets the evolving demands of public safety communications. Want to know more about this topic? Check out the Whitepaper "Delivering Critical Communications at Scale" from ENENSYS Technologies here: https://www.enensys.com/knowledge/delivering-critical-communications-at-scale/ Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

As the critical communications industry continues to evolve towards the world of MCX and NG911/112, the potential complexities for end users to be able toleverage these technologies continues to increase. Are strategic partnerships between companies the secret to overcoming these in future mission critical networks? In this episode, we are talking about the exclusive partnership agreement signed between Frequentis and Tait Communications, which allows Tait access to LifeX console platform technology. We dive deep into what this partnership means for both companies, and hear from both sides of the partnership, with a representative from both Frequentis and Tait. We are joined by: Manuel Hintermayr, Director of Public Safety Solutions and Sales at Frequentis Kevin Sumrell, President of Tait Americas The Frequentis LifeX platform, used broadly through many countries, represents a potentially disruptive approach for the North American market, as it seamlessly integrates various mission critical communication technologies, including Analog and P25, while also accomodating DMR, MCX, 911 and NG911 in the future.  Both Frequentis and Tait will be attending APCO 2024, being held this year on 4-7th August in Orlandof, Florida. Find out more about each company here: Frequentis: https://www.frequentis.com/ Tait Communications: https://www.taitcommunications.com/ Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we cover some of the many highlights from the EENA 2024 Conference and Exhibition that was held in Valencia, SPain from the 24th to th 26th April 2024. We are joined by EENA's Public Affairs Director, Benoit Vivier, who is plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the EENA conference year on year. And this year was certainly no exception, with the event's highest attendance, a packed conference schedule and a busy exhibition hall to boot! We focus in on 3 shared highlights: The opening session: Focused on the setup of the 112 system in Ukraine during wartime, showcasing the implementation of a modern emergency response system under challenging conditions. The EENA Special Project: The AI special project by EENA aims to test AI applications in emergency call centers across multiple countries, with results expected by the end of the year. EU AI Act: Benoit discussed the implications of the EU AI Act, which is the first legislation of its kind globally, emphasizing a risk-based approach to ensure ethical AI use. High-risk AI systems used in emergency services must comply with stringent regulations. Find out more about the EENA 2024 conference, along with the open access conference materials, here: https://eenaconference.org/eena-2024/ Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com