The second quarterly Third Generational Partnership Project (3GPP) Plenary e-meetings of 2021 recently concluded. The group focused on the completion of Release 17 (R17) stage 2 (architecture) work and preparation for prioritization of features for R18. The group declared the stage 2 work frozen, while allowing some work items to continue into the third quarter of 2021. At this time, the R17 stage 3 (protocol) freeze date remains on schedule for March 2022.

During a man-made or natural disaster, getting messages out can sometimes be hindered due to an overload of communication by those in the area. This roadblock can have devastating consequences if first responders are unable to efficiently communicate with each other and direct emergency resources to the areas that need it most. To help overcome this obstacle, Penn State University Police and Public Safety (UPPS) is connecting its police officers and other key personnel to FirstNet.

AT&T announced that it is expanding FirstNet’s dedicated fleet of deployable network assets. The FirstNet fleet now boasts more than 100 land-based and airborne portable cell sites.

First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) Senior Public-Safety Advisor Kenzie Capece provided an update on the spring Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC) meeting.

An AT&T executive said that it is possible that the FirstNet buildout will finish ahead of the March 2023 completion date mandated in its contract with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority).

In advance of the 2021 storm season, FirstNet, built with AT&T, is introducing ROG the Dog animal assisted therapy to support public safety on the frontlines. This new initiative builds off of the launch of the FirstNet Health and Wellness Coalition and reinforces the company’s commitment to be there for America's first responders by further supporting the health and well-being of those who serve their communities each and every day.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded AT&T four task to modernize and transform the department’s telecommunications infrastructure with IP-based networking services. The awards have a combined value of $306 million over 12 years if all options are exercised.

A Beep/Diga-Talk+ announced that its DTP-9751 portable radio is available for use on FirstNet. The DTP-9751 is a dedicated push to talk (PTT) over cellular (PoC) device for FirstNet extended primary users.

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) board passed a resolution updating the board’s bylaws and its Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC) charter during its May 5 meeting. The PSAC charter update adds text preventing representatives from any taxing jurisdiction or state that is currently diverting 9-1-1 fees from participating in the PSAC.

Airgain announced that SYNNEX Corporation will now offer Airgain’s products to customers under its General Services Administration (GSA) Multiple Awards Schedule (MAS) Contract.