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Photo of a meeting room with people sitting and working on computers, overlaid with circles connected with lines, suggesting networking. Circles contain wireless network terminology: “5G; CORE; MCPTT; NTN; V2X; RAN; MCdata”

The third quarterly Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Plenary e-meetings of 2021 concluded in September. Participants spent considerable time on preliminary scoping of the Release 18 (R18) feature content and schedule. Delegates also made good progress on the stage 3 (protocol) work for Release 17. The R18 schedule discussion ended with an initial agreement on an 18 month timeline that will result in a December 2023 completion target date. 

Emergency medical official using a tablet in the back of an ambulance
During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services helped patients and medical providers connect in real-time in a safe setting. In light of this, the FirstNet Authority Public Safety Advisory Committee Telehealth Strike Team re-examined the widespread adoption of telehealth services and identified emerging telehealth case studies that may save lives, streamline medical services, and ensure quality patient care.
A man standing in front of a compact rapid deployable; a group photo of public safety and FirstNet Authority personnel at the Red Cliffs tower groundbreaking; a crane digging ground

First responders’ inability to communicate after the 9/11 attacks underscored significant public safety communication shortfalls nationwide – including on tribal lands. The FirstNet Authority is working to bring FirstNet’s unique capabilities to tribal communities that are historically prone to communication challenges.

A paramedic stands near an incident scene

First responders bravely and selflessly protect and serve our communities every day. On National First Responders Day, we take time to celebrate and honor their dedication. The FirstNet Authority is proud to serve the men and women of public safety with innovative solutions that can make their jobs easier, more efficient, and safer.

A firefighter ascends a flaming stairwell

The FirstNet Authority continuously works with public safety across the country to evolve the FirstNet network. One of the key capabilities that public safety requested during the planning phase of FirstNet was the ability to determine the Z-axis, or vertical axis, location of personnel. This service is now available in a growing number of areas on the FirstNet network for the nation’s first responders.