Four vendor partners — Motorola Solutions, Sapient Consulting, Inmarsat Government and General Dynamics — were announced in conjunction with AT&T’s 2017 contract with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to build the nationwide public-safety broadband network. Following is an update on how each of the four companies is working with AT&T on the contract.

Several recent FCC proposals have the potential to change the industry in big ways. The latest action on 900 MHz sets up a realignment process we haven’t experienced since 800 MHz rebanding began more than a decade ago. The biggest difference will be the process the FCC uses to relocate incumbents, and hopefully, the length of time it takes to complete the initiative.

The Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity-NRC Cybersecurity Collaboration Consortium (CNCCC) opened in Fredericton, New Brunswick. This innovative hub, established by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and the University of New Brunswick's Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity (CIC), will lead to discoveries and advances in cybersecurity including publications, patents and the commercialization of technology, as well as provide training opportunities for graduate students and post-doctoral fellows.

Industry feedback on the FCC’s proposal to realign the 900 MHz band to allow for broadband services was varied, with large incumbent utilities opposing the proposal and others supporting the realignment only with tight interference protections and voluntary incumbent relocation.

Siyata Mobile announced that the Uniden UV350 in-vehicle mounted phablet is FirstNet Ready, making it tested and approved for use with services on the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) communications platform. The UV350 is the first in-vehicle mounted phablet that has been tested and approved to operate on FirstNet.

The FCC proposed changes to its Part 87 aviation radio service rules to support the deployment of more advanced avionics technology, increase efficient use of aeronautical spectrum and improve aviation safety.

A new white paper from TCCA examines public-safety prioritization on commercial networks, including mechanisms and legal considerations.

pdvWireless CEO Morgan O’Brien told potential investors May 21 the company needs an additional $100 million to $150 million to carry out its 900 MHz realignment plan and offer broadband services in the spectrum. The company had $77 million cash on hand March 31.

For critical communications users, internet of things (IoT) suitability depends on the combination of all the individual IoT elements in the chain. Learn how one utility deployed IoT technology during a four-year pilot.

There is widespread disagreement among public-safety groups and industry on the best way to deliver indoor wireless location data for 9-1-1 calls to dispatch centers from wireless providers based on comments filed with the FCC.