House passes First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026

by Americas - Featured NewsBreaking NewsCommunications

How the First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026 protects emergency communications

The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7386 on 20 April 2026 to extend the legal authority of the nationwide public safety broadband network through 30 September 2037.

The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026 amends the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012.

This legislation replaces the previous 15-year statutory sunset with a fixed end date to prevent the termination of the federal First Responder Network (FirstNet) Authority in February 2027.

The bill removes the independent status of the Authority and places it under closer oversight by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

NTIA approval is now required for most actions taken by the Authority – including management and investment decisions.

Defined operational activities such as emergency deployment and budgeting may proceed without prior NTIA approval.

The Act establishes an NTIA Associate Administrator role to oversee the Authority and manage day-to-day operations.

This new position acts as a liaison with the NTIA and is subject to annual performance reviews in consultation with the Board.

Annual reports to Congress must now include data on cyberattacks, cyber defence activity and unscheduled service outages.

Adoption rates by profession and geographic area are also included in the expanded reporting requirements.

Enhanced operational oversight and first responder representation

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) noted that the legislation reinforces the ability to deploy emergency response capabilities and resources to disasters.

Board composition requirements are updated to ensure five members represent state, local or Tribal public safety professionals within three years of enactment.

These representatives will include active personnel from fire, emergency medical, emergency management, law enforcement and 9-1-1 services.

The IAFC said: “The FirstNet Authority ensures that first responders stay connected during the most chaotic times.

“First responders need to be able to have confidence in their communications, because at the end of the day, lives are on the line.

“FirstNet provides a nationwide broadband network that allows fire, EMS, and law enforcement to stay connected within and across jurisdictions.”

The FirstNet contractor must submit a business continuity and disaster recovery plan to the NTIA for approval within 180 days.

This recovery plan must be resubmitted every five years thereafter to maintain operational resilience.

New requirements mandate that the contractor inform the Authority of any confirmed service outage within 30 minutes of discovery.

A network status tool with up-to-date information must be maintained for subscriber agencies to track outages.

The bill moved to the U.S. Senate for consideration following the voice vote in the House.

Saving lives with sound: How TOA uses voice systems to guide evacuations

by Breaking NewsCommunicationsEvacuationIFSJ Exclusives

Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director, TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, talks critical communication, audio’s role in public safety and why sound saves lives

It is a hard fact to comprehend, but the reality is that incidents of natural disaster, tragic accidents and terrorism have increased in recent years and emergency responders are having to deal with more significant events than ever before.

Addressing how this is managed is key, and the use of audio is now at the forefront of how safety, early warning and evacuation systems are developed.

There are significant statistics showing that people respond better to direct vocal instructions than to a bell.

A bell is often ignored because individuals assume it does not apply to them, whereas a clear, direct command motivates people to follow instructions.

It is very important that we address both evacuation and invacuation when using messages to manage incidents.

We all know what evacuation means, but invacuation procedures involve people moving to a designated place of safety or staying in a zoned area while awaiting instruction.

The way messages are delivered influences how people react and can reduce panic.

Audio communication improves safety outcomes by providing clearer and more informative instructions.

As audio-based safety messages become more common, they will become part of everyday life, encouraging controlled responses rather than instinctive movement toward the nearest exit, which could increase risk.

Advantages of effective communication 

With this in mind, it is extremely important to acknowledge the advantages that audio provides for two-way communication.

 The ability for emergency responders to be able to communicate effectively and quickly allows us to minimise response times and improve methods of critical communication to those they can’t immediately reach to try and keep more people safe and calm.

 They can then deal with the incident, knowing they are able to keep in contact with people and communicate with them if, initially, evacuation is not an option.

This is particularly important in the event of an act of terrorism, where the perpetrators are often mobile and hostile.

 We have seen so many times that if a ‘stay put, stay down’ message had been delivered in certain incidents lives might have been saved.

This is what the industry must work towards moving forward.

In the UK, the introduction of Martyn’s Law in 2025, officially titled the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, means there are going to be many changes to how venues operate and respond to incidents and that audio systems will play a huge part in this.

Venues will have to demonstrate responsibility for their visitors and ensure their staff are trained in appropriate public procedures that specifically relate to evacuation, moving people to a safe place and lockdown.

Venues will have to have incident management plans in place which should include how they will communicate with external organisations offering emergency assistance.

 Many countries globally either have similar legislation in progress or are considering frameworks for changing the way they manage public places, and we can only see this developing internationally.

It is very clear in the UK what standards voice evacuation systems must adhere to and we are regulated to two BS standards.

BS EN 50849 requires BS-EN54 certified components that are suitable for use as a Sound System for Emergency Purpose (SSEP).

 A SSEP is a public address audio system that can deliver emergency messages but is not connected to a fire system.

BS-5839-8: 2023 is the standard that should be adhered to if there is a voice evacuation system that connects to the fire alarm system.

It is a legal requirement for power supplies, control and indicating equipment and speakers to be EN-54 independently certificated by a third-party approved body.

Connected systems

In terms of technology, we are increasingly asked by end-users to design a system that is not only multi-tasking for audio but also can connect and communicate with other safety solutions such as fire alarms and security CCTV.

 For example, a recent project involved a large multi-function facility with retail units, restaurants, offices and residential spaces where different units required separate audio.

However, the overarching landlord also wanted to have control to override this in the event of an incident or fire, enabling them to take back control of their whole building, keeping overall responsibility.

As buildings get bigger, systems will get more complex.

As a manufacturer, we have to address this in our research and product development ensuring flexibility and scope to expand and offer many solutions that connect together.

Voice alarm and public address systems that deliver audio give control and enable complex management of both events and incidents using one system to manage both.

They are designed to be scalable and can be used in many applications from a retail unit to large complex buildings, such as a football stadium.

At TOA we believe that audio provision should be designed to the building specification.

It is extremely important to get this right so that the audio is clear and intelligible, with the acoustics and placement of speakers reflecting the fabrication of the structure.

Advances in speaker technology and design have allowed us to improve the effectiveness of speaker profiles allowing projects to require less equipment while still projecting sound further and more effectively.

Advances in IP audio will also be a game changer in combining audio with IP networks for a complete safety solution.

By adopting common industrial standard protocols for audio transmission and network control we can fully integrate IP audio with platforms such as SIP services/phones, video management systems (VMS) or IP control systems.

In summary, using audio in fire safety and security is bringing many more options to the table as to how we communicate clearly and effectively, both with everyday messages and when we need to trigger emergency announcements.

Audio creates a much better way of keeping people informed, safe and ultimately will save lives.

For expert advice contact the TOA Corporation UK Team on 01372 389799 or email technical@toa.co.uk

This was originally published in the March 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Five reasons to go rugged in public safety: Sonim Technologies on building phones for fireground realties

by Breaking NewsCommunications

Michael Coad, Senior Vice President, Product Management, Sonim Technologies, Inc. explains rugged device value for responders needing operational reliability within demanding regulatory frameworks

Our firefighters, safety workers, and first responders are under more pressure and performing in more hazardous and difficult environments than ever before.

Studies have found that climate change has already led to an increase in wildfire season length, wildfire frequency, and burned area.

The wildfire season has also expanded in many regions because of factors including warmer springs, longer summer dry seasons, and drier soils and vegetation.

Constant, year-round fire dangers in large swaths of the US have a huge impact on our first responders and is driving the need for more durable, secure, and rugged mobile devices that offer software applications that are applicable for use in the field.

Public safety workers also face tough, rough, dirty jobsites, meaning the risk for mobile device damage or breakage is high.

According to one source, 89% of first responders use their mobile phones as part of their everyday work tasks, highlighting the importance of real-time communications as the bedrock of public safety.

Bottom line: there is a critical and urgent need for mobile-friendly technology to ensure first responders can work anywhere they’re called and stay connected to the people they serve, even in remote areas.

Despite the high probability mobile devices may be damaged in challenging first responder work environments, budgets are generally tight and the procurement cycles long for federal, state, and local governments, leaving little room for breakdowns of technology and broken phones.

Going ‘rugged’ for consistent, clear communications

There are five key reasons why fire and public safety workers should consider rugged devices when choosing handheld mobile phones:

Lower total cost of ownership

Rugged devices hold their value for longer than non-rugged devices, cost less to repair, and don’t require expensive aftermarket accessories.

Using rugged devices reduces the need to replace broken or damaged devices, which can result in missed calls and communications with team members during emergencies.

Built for extreme environments

Devices designed for first responders should be drop-resistant and able to survive drops onto hard surfaces.

Rugged mobile phones should also be safe to use in hazardous environments where flammable materials may be present and resist dirt, water, and chemicals.

The ability to remain operational in extreme temperatures and have non-incendive ratings is especially important for firefighters and public safety workers.

Devices should also be equipped with loud speakers that can be heard clearly in noisy environments.

Enhanced mobile features

Push-to-talk (PTT) capabilities are extremely important for rugged devices designed for first responders.

PTT is helpful for public safety workers who rely on one-touch walkie-talkie style communications.

Modern PTT provides the ability to instantly share files, including videos, which is useful in situations where a visual understanding of the situation is critical.

Devices equipped with a 5000mAh battery ensure longer battery life for all-day productivity, while built-in cameras help document activity at the worksite.

Integrated security

Built-in security features ensure public safety workers have a secure means of communicating, creating mobile workflows, and sending information to and from the cloud, including rural areas.

Other software-based features for public safety applications include Mobile Device Management, barcode scanning, and SOS modes that trigger “man down” or “lone worker” alerts.

Dedicated public safety networks

Rugged devices should provide built-in support for full use of dedicated public safety broadband networks like AT&T FirstNet, Verizon Frontline, or T-Mobile T-Priority.

This support offers extended coverage, particularly in rural and remote areas, and can handle large amounts of data.

These networks allow firefighters and first responders to tap into specialised capabilities required to meet mission needs, helping them to protect their communities.

Features that promote ease of use allow first responders and public safety workers to focus on their mission to keep the communities they serve safe.

Addressing today’s communication challenges

Firefighters, first responders, and public safety workers operate in some of the most demanding and unpredictable environments, where communication, speed, and reliability can mean the difference between life and death.

Challenges such as extreme weather, hazardous conditions, and limited connectivity are why traditional consumer-grade devices often fall short and could compromise operational efficiency and safety.

Rugged mobile devices specifically engineered to withstand harsh environments, resist water and dust, endure drops and shocks, and function reliably in extreme temperatures, ensure uninterrupted communication and performance in critical moments.

Integrating rugged mobile devices into public safety operations offers voluminous benefits that directly support mission success.

By adopting ruggedised technology, our firefighters, public safety workers, and first responders can focus on what matters most—delivering more effective and timely responses to the communities they serve.

About the author

Michael Coad is senior vice president, product management, at Sonim Technologies, and has been with the company for nearly 15 years.

Prior to Sonim, Coad served as a consultant for Comcast’s wireless business and was vice president of partner development for Qualcomm, Inc.

He has deep expertise in advanced design, development, and management of wireless products, services, and applications, particularly for mobile wireless markets using 5G/4G technologies.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Hytera signs enhanced MoU with NAFFCO at Intersec Dubai 2026

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsTraining

Hytera Communications partnership update at Intersec Dubai 2026

Hytera Communications and the NAFFCO Group signed an enhanced Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Intersec Dubai 2026.

Hytera Communications announced the agreement as a new phase in its strategic partnership with NAFFCO, focused on deeper integration, joint innovation and long-term cooperation in emergency response and public safety solutions.

The MoU was signed by Eng. Khalid Al Khateb, CEO of NAFFCO Group, and Stanley Song, Vice President of Hytera.

The announcement described the updated scope as covering solution co-development, system integration, training and service support.

Adel said: “We are pleased to further our cooperation with Hytera on a larger international stage,

“Hytera’s communication technologies complement our emergency vehicles and safety systems, enabling better coordination, faster response, and improved efficiency for emergency teams operating in complex and high-risk environments.”

Song said: “Our strategic collaboration with NAFFCO is built on shared experience and proven results

“By renewing this MoU at Intersec, we are reaffirming a long-term commitment to work more closely, from solution design to deployment and training, to support large-scale emergency services with communication systems they can rely on when it matters most.”

Joint showcase and technologies presented

During the exhibition, the companies presented a combined showcase intended to demonstrate an integrated approach.

Hytera presented its Integrated Command & Control (ICC) Platform and Body Camera Systems alongside NAFFCO’s specialised emergency vehicles.

The joint display was described as showing how integrated communication and vehicle systems can enhance situational awareness, streamline command and support coordinated operations in different scenarios.

The statement said the joint exhibition received a visit from H.E. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the U.A.E. Cybersecurity Council.

Hytera Communications said the visit highlighted the growing relevance of integrated, resilient communication solutions within national safety and security frameworks.

The new platform changing first responders communications

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsCommunications

AT&T launches Fusion platform for unified first responder communications

AT&T has announced Fusion, a new mission-critical communications platform designed to connect first responders across virtually any radio system or US wireless carrier.

According to the company, Fusion is built for all first responders, whether they subscribe to FirstNet individually, through their agency, or use another network provider.

The platform will integrate features such as push-to-talk, Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1) dispatch and connected devices in a single interface.

AT&T said the goal is to reduce the time and complexity of communication during emergency response, improving coordination between agencies and cutting seconds from response times.

Scott Agnew, President of FirstNet at AT&T, said: “FirstNet is in a league of its own – and Fusion further reinforces our unwavering commitment to providing all first responders with the tools they need to protect communities and save lives.”

“It also allows us to set a new standard for how America responds to emergencies and coordinates operations.”

The company added that unlike competitors that declined to partner with public safety when invited, FirstNet remains the only dedicated nationwide broadband network designed for emergency responders.

Fusion Link to connect with any public safety radio system

AT&T said Fusion will include Fusion Link, a universal gateway allowing the system to integrate with nearly any traditional land-mobile radio (LMR) used by public safety.

The company explained that while existing bridge solutions often require proprietary hardware or software, Fusion Link adheres to 3GPP and APCO P25 open standards to support wider interoperability.

This approach, AT&T stated, will allow agencies to extend their communication infrastructure more affordably while improving coordination during multi-agency operations or large-scale incidents.

Fusion will also enable first responders to create custom talkgroups and channels in seconds rather than the hours or days needed on conventional systems.

Integration with other public safety technologies

AT&T said Fusion will serve as an open platform capable of integrating with wider emergency response ecosystems, including situational awareness and call-handling systems.

The company is working with Axon and Carbyne to link Fusion with Axon’s Fusus situational awareness platform and Carbyne’s APEX 9-1-1 call-handling system.

According to AT&T, this integration will allow dispatchers to transmit caller information, such as location and video, directly to incident commanders without needing to relay messages by radio.

The Axon integration will also enable responders to access live body-worn camera feeds and view Fusion-enabled device locations, improving operational visibility and safety.

AT&T said further partnerships with public safety technology providers are in development.

Availability and pricing details

AT&T confirmed that Fusion will be introduced to selected agencies in November as part of a controlled rollout before wider availability early next year.

The company said the platform will be the most affordable mission-critical push-to-talk solution currently available once fully launched.

Agencies and responders can learn more at the FirstNet booth during the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) event in Denver or by contacting FirstNet consultants.

AT&T added that individual first responders can subscribe to FirstNet through AT&T retail outlets, with family members eligible for discounts on commercial plans.

Implications for emergency communication and coordination

Fusion’s introduction has direct implications for emergency communication leaders, command officers and technical coordinators responsible for public safety networks.

By enabling seamless communication across carriers, devices and jurisdictions, Fusion could reduce dependence on single-network radio systems and simplify multi-agency collaboration during large-scale incidents.

Integration with NG 9-1-1 and situational awareness systems may also enhance coordination between dispatchers, incident commanders and field responders, reducing communication gaps during critical moments.

The platform’s adherence to open standards will be relevant for public safety technology planners, procurement officers and network engineers assessing interoperability between existing land-mobile systems and broadband platforms.

If widely adopted, Fusion could become a foundation for future emergency communication networks linking voice, data and real-time visual information.

How vertical location data enhances responder safety in complex emergencies

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsSafety

NextNav and First Due launch new US-based emergency mapping tool

NextNav has announced a new partnership with software firm First Due aimed at improving responder safety through building-level visibility during emergencies.

According to NextNav, the integration of its vertical location and 3D wireframe visualisation technology into First Due’s incident management platform allows commanders to identify the exact floor and location of responders inside multi-storey buildings.

The company said the new system supports real-time personnel tracking and aims to improve operational decision-making for fire and EMS agencies.

This launch is specific to the United States and forms part of what NextNav described as a broader shift toward enhanced digital situational awareness tools for public safety services.

First Due stated that the system is now available as part of its incident command and response solution.

Integration provides building-specific responder positioning

NextNav stated that its z-axis and visualisation tools will be fully embedded into First Due’s platform.

It explained that incident commanders using the platform will be able to view responder positions within a 3D wireframe representation of buildings, rather than only on traditional 2D maps.

This capability is intended to support operations in high-rise or complex structures where accurate location data is critical for personnel accountability.

The company added that this function could help reduce confusion during emergencies and support safer tactical coordination.

According to NextNav, the visualisation builds on the firm’s licensed low-band spectrum technology, which enables its vertical location tracking features.

It also said the move aligns with future developments in 9-1-1 call centre infrastructure across the US.

First Due highlights improved command decision-making

First Due Co-founder and CEO Andreas Huber said the tool supports better outcomes in urban incidents.

Huber said: “We’re focused on ensuring First Due delivers real impact when it matters most. With the ability to visualize personnel not just on a 2D map but within a 3D model of a structure, incident commanders gain powerful situational awareness in the moments that count.”

He added: “We’re proud to continue our partnership with NextNav and further develop solutions that aim to improve operational outcomes during the most complex urban responses.”

The company noted that this visual data gives teams a direct overview of where responders are located, helping to coordinate actions during dynamic emergency conditions.

It stated that this functionality is especially relevant for city-based departments where multi-storey buildings and high population density create additional response challenges.

First Due said the partnership builds on an existing collaboration between the two companies.

NextNav signals future expansion into emergency communications

Rob Clark, Senior Director of Public Safety at NextNav, commented on the broader implications of the rollout.

Clark said: “NextNav is excited to bring its accurate z-axis location and 3D visualization services to First Due’s application ecosystem. This partnership gives first responders and command staff a clearer picture of what’s happening inside buildings during an emergency.”

He added: “This rollout marks a major milestone in bringing advanced actionable data into real-world emergency response — and sets the stage for similar upgrades at 9-1-1 call centers across the country.”

The company said it is positioning its technology as a critical upgrade for emergency services transitioning to digital command tools.

NextNav noted that its technology was built to support precision during complex operations and aims to serve both public safety teams and emergency communication centres.

Z-axis location forms part of PNT technology expansion

NextNav said the partnership reflects its broader strategy to expand positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) services across emergency sectors.

The company explained that its low-band licensed spectrum enables accurate 3D positioning in environments where GPS data may be limited or obstructed.

It said this includes high-rise buildings, underground areas and other urban settings where traditional tracking tools can become unreliable.

The technology was described by NextNav as applicable to both critical infrastructure and commercial safety use cases.

NextNav added that it intends to grow its PNT ecosystem with further partnerships in public safety and beyond.

How vertical location data enhances responder safety in complex emergencies: Summary

NextNav has partnered with First Due to integrate 3D building-level tracking into emergency command software.

The technology allows incident commanders to see the vertical location of personnel inside multi-storey buildings.

This system is designed to support real-time responder accountability and safer tactical decisions during complex emergencies.

According to NextNav, the integration uses its z-axis and wireframe visualisation tools.

The feature is embedded in First Due’s incident command and response platform.

First Due CEO Andreas Huber said the update improves situational awareness in critical moments.

Rob Clark of NextNav said the rollout is a milestone for real-world responder visibility.

The companies confirmed that the platform is available in the United States.

Public safety hotspot launched with 6x transmission power

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsProducts

Sonim unveils portable HPUE hotspot for US emergency services

AT&T has announced the launch of the Sonim MegaConnect, a compact high-powered user equipment (HPUE) mobile hotspot designed to improve public safety connectivity across the United States.

The device, developed by Sonim Technologies, is part of the FirstNet MegaRange portfolio and offers six times the transmission power of standard Wi-Fi hotspots, according to AT&T.

The company said MegaConnect supports connectivity in areas with limited coverage, such as remote rural locations and dense urban buildings, by operating on Band 14 spectrum reserved for FirstNet.

The unit also works on AT&T’s 5G and LTE commercial bands and provides a portable Wi-Fi solution for mission-critical communications.

Sonim described MegaConnect as the smallest and most affordable HPUE currently available.

Enhanced mobility and speed for field operations

AT&T stated that the new hotspot transmits up to twice the upload speed of conventional devices.

The company said this improves the ability of first responders to transmit high-resolution footage, stream live video, and establish mobile command centres in the field.

MegaConnect is designed to be portable, weather-resistant, and simple to deploy.

Sonim said the device can be used during natural disasters and in hard-to-reach areas such as basements and underground car parks.

The device is available for $99.

Integrated cooling system enables device performance

The MegaConnect uses solid-state active cooling technology to maintain performance during operation.

The unit includes AirJet, a component from Frore Systems, which allows the hotspot to operate at full HPUE power in a compact form.

According to AT&T, heat management has previously been a barrier to mobile HPUE deployment.

The new cooling system enables continuous usage in environments with high communication demands.

This is designed to benefit emergency responders operating for extended periods without access to external cooling or charging.

Additional hardware expansion to extend range

Later in 2025, Sonim and Parsec will release an add-on dock for the MegaConnect.

According to AT&T, this new dock will include high-gain antennas and thermal regulation to support wider signal reach and system longevity.

The Parsec MegaReach Dock is expected to double the existing 6x transmission power to up to 12x.

This will allow the hotspot to cover larger areas and improve reception in difficult environments.

AT&T said the dock is intended to help emergency teams maintain signal quality during evolving or mobile operations.

Broader availability for commercial users

Although designed for public safety, the MegaConnect will also be accessible to commercial sectors through the AT&T network.

AT&T said industries including utilities, transportation, retail, and finance can use the device for infrastructure monitoring in remote locations.

The company stated that non-emergency users on AT&T’s commercial network can still benefit from the enhanced power of Band 14 when not prioritised for FirstNet use.

This secondary availability is designed to increase the device’s utility across critical infrastructure operators.

Public safety hotspot launched with 6x transmission power: Summary

AT&T has introduced the Sonim MegaConnect mobile hotspot in the United States.

The device is part of the FirstNet MegaRange HPUE portfolio.

It is designed to provide public safety teams with stronger connectivity in remote or enclosed areas.

MegaConnect offers 6x the transmission power of standard hotspots.

It operates on Band 14 and AT&T’s commercial 5G and LTE spectrum.

It uses a cooling system from Frore Systems to manage internal temperature.

The hotspot is compact and battery-operated.

It is currently priced at $99.

Later in 2025, a new dock from Parsec will extend its range further.

The MegaConnect will also be available to other sectors on the AT&T network.