Omdia Crit Comms Circle

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  Ep 91: From reliable communications to cognitive critical operations 29.09.2026 34นาที

  In this episode of Omdia's Crit Comms Circle, we sit down with Lelio di Martino from Nokia to explore the evolution from connecting mission critical users to enabling Cognitive Critical Operations. Our conversation explored a simple question: What if providing reliable communications werent' a challenge. What next? In this new approach ultra-reliable connectivity, edge computing, real-time data processing, and AI come together to transform how critical organizations operate.    Collecting real time data from cameras, sensors, devices, and other sources will generating enormous volumes of information. To turn that raw data into something useful requires real time processing as close to the source as possible.That’s where the edge and AI come in.For first responders, defense use cases and other critical enterprise sectors, this opens the door to new use cases where milliseconds matter, reliability is non-negotiable, and the ability to process massive amounts of data can make the difference between simply seeing what is happening and actually being able to act on it.Join us for a conversation about why connectivity is becoming the foundation (not the destination) for intelligent, real-time critical operations.More information can be found on Nokia's press release announcement: www.nokia.com/newsroom/CognitiveOperations👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 90: The importance of BWC in mission critical environments 10.03.2026 33นาที

  In this episode, Paul speaks with Martin Ekman, Global Business Development Director for Axis Body Worn Solutions at Axis Communications, about the rapid expansion of body-worn cameras beyond traditional law enforcement into enterprise markets like retail, healthcare, transportation, and utilities. Martin shares insights on how mission-critical features, connectivity advances, and evolving use cases are driving adoption across diverse sectors—and what the next 3-5 years hold for this technology.Highlights includeBody-worn cameras are no longer just for police: Enterprise sectors like retail, corrections, and utilities are adopting them for safety, compliance, and liability protection.Evidence integrity is non-negotiable: Unlike consumer action cameras, professional body-worn systems ensure tamper-proof video with end-to-end security—critical as generative AI makes fake footage harder to detect.Form factor matters: Miniature body-worn cameras are enabling adoption in environments where traditional bulky devices don't fit—think train conductors in button shirts or retail staff on the floor.Live streaming changes the game: 4G/5G connectivity allows real-time oversight from command centers, transforming safety protocols for Coast Guard boardings, prison interventions, and emergency response.AI analytics are coming, but battery life is the bottleneck: Real-time analytics at the edge face power constraints, but streaming to centralized systems already enables features like auto-redaction, transcription, and translation.Top TakeawayBody-worn cameras are no longer a niche law enforcement tool, they're becoming a must-have for any organization prioritizing safety, transparency, and evidence integrity. The technology is mature, the use cases are proven, and the market is expanding faster in enterprise sectors than in public safety. If you're not exploring body-worn solutions yet, you're behind the curve.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 89: How are utilities going to keep the lights on in an AI world? 24.02.2026 28นาที

  In this episode, Alfonso de la Cruz sits down with Ozge Russell, Senior Analyst at Omdia's Smart Building and Energy team, fresh from DistribuTech 2026 in San Diego. Together, they unpack why utilities are facing their most significant transformation since electrification began, and how grid edge intelligence is becoming the frontline defense against complexity, outages, and skyrocketing demand.Highlights include:90% of US grid outages originate at the distribution edge, yet utilities historically had the least visibility thereUS energy consumption projected to surge 50% in 20 years after two decades of near-zero growth, driven by AI data centers and electrificationUtilities are rebuilding network topology maps using AI because they don't know which homes connect to which transformersGrid edge intelligence enables autonomous, real-time fault detection, protecting expensive equipment and preventing cascading failuresAffordability is now a top-4 priority alongside reliability, resiliency, and flexibility, requiring utilities to collaborate with customers, not just serve themTop Takeaway:The grid edge is where 90% of outages happen, and where utilities had the least visibility. Edge-native intelligence isn't a nice-to-have; it's the only way to manage bidirectional power flows, protect aging infrastructure, and prevent economic disruption as electrification accelerates.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 88: Rugged devices & body worn cameras: the frontline convergence 10.02.2026 29นาที

  In this episode, we dive into Omdia's latest market reports on body worn cameras and broadband critical communications, exploring how frontline device convergence is creating a unified data ecosystem for mission critical operations.The discussion covers the evolution from hardware bloat to intelligent orchestration, the transitional period of hybrid devices, and the expansion of critical technologies beyond traditional blue light services.Highlights include• Hardware bloat should be avoided:  Technology for technology’s sake is the downfall of the “connected officer”. First responders carrying too many devices could face decision paralysis about which tool to reach for during critical moments. Convergence of technology into one device can address the complexity challenge.• The "connected officer" concept requires orchestration, not just convergence: The right number of specialized devices working together intelligently beats trying to create one Swiss Army knife solution• We're in a massive proof of concept period: Agencies are evaluating hybrid devices that combine narrowband and broadband capabilities, but adoption patterns are still emerging• Commercial sectors are driving new form factors: Retail, healthcare, and logistics are adopting body worn cameras with completely different requirements than emergency services• Real-time video analytics will be a game changer: Live streaming from body cameras is only valuable if AI can process and feed actionable insights back to frontline responders timely and effectively.Top TakeawayMission critical technology adoption is use case driven, not technology driven. The most impactful innovations aren't the most complex or futuristic ones, but those that solve specific operational problems faster and more efficiently than existing methods.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 87: Interworking Functions (IWF) - Bridging Legacy and Next-Generation 27.01.2026 35นาที

  In this episode, we discuss the evolution of systems connectivity, including the successful implementation of cross-border communication using Inter-System Interface (ISI) and how this experience laid the foundation for bridging legacy LMR systems with MCX broadband solutions.We are joined by Michel Duits, a Senior Principal Engineer at Norway's Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB), where he leads the proof of concept for interworking functions for Norway's National Public Safety Network. Beyond his work at DSB, Michel co-champions the IWF Working Group at TCCA alongside Harald Ludwig and represents DSB in the EUCCS program, contributing to the development of interoperable and secure communication systems across Europe.Key topics coveredUnderstanding Interworking Functions (IWF)Definition: The bridging functionality that connects LMR systems (Tetra, P25, DMR) with MCX application serversCore Function: Enables communication between different domains through identity mapping, protocol translation, and data transportKey Capability: Press-to-talk functionality across different system standardsImplementation Challenges and SolutionsStarting Point Dilemma: How and where to begin the transition processUser-Centric Approach: Focus on actual user needs rather than theoretical capabilities80/20 Rule: Achieving 80% functionality today is better than waiting for 100% perfectionPhased Implementation: Breaking down large infrastructure projects into manageable stepsMultiple Pathways to InteroperabilityNative Interworking Function (Ideal but limited vendor support)ISI (Inter-System Interface) - Primary focus of current developmentAPI-based Solutions - For control room integrationProprietary Systems - Not recommended due to vendor lock-inCurrent Proof of Concept InitiativeTimeline: Started 18 months ago with TCCA working groupCollaboration: Working with Sweden, Finland, and interested vendorsApproach: Moving from simulators and emulators to real system testingGoal: Demonstrate end-to-end communication between Tetra terminals and MCX applicationsMichel's 5-Year Industry VisionCollaboration Over Competition: Industry players putting aside egos to work togetherOpen Standardized Ecosystems: Systems that allow organizations to transition at their own pace and budgetAccelerated Development: Faster industry response to what Michel describes as "the clearest commercial business case in 25 years"Knowledge Sharing: More transparency and cooperation between industry stakeholders👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 86: Looking ahead to 2026 13.01.2026 28นาที

  In this episode, we look ahead to 2026 and explore the trends, technologies, and challenges set to shape the year across critical communications, public safety, and mission-critical operations.We’re joined once again by the team from Informa, Alfonso, Donny, and Erin, for a wide-ranging discussion covering everything from AI and cybersecurity to interoperability, platforms, video, drones, and emerging threat vectors.🔹 What’s Coming at IWCE 2026 We kick things off with a look at IWCE 2026, marking its 50th edition and returning to Las Vegas. Highlights include:Record-breaking speaker submissions and growing momentumA near-complete agenda already liveAI appearing across sessions — not as a standalone topic, but embedded everywhereThe return of major industry voices and vendors in forceIWCE once again sets the tone for the year ahead in critical communications.🤖 AI Everywhere — Opportunity and Risk AI is a dominant theme for 2026, but not without complexity:AI-enhanced common operating pictures, alerting, and workflowsTraining, ethics, legal implications, and hallucination risksAI as both a defensive tool and a new threat vectorWe explore how AI will quietly permeate nearly every system, even when it’s not obvious from the headline.🔐 Cybersecurity: From Theory to Reality Cybersecurity remains a top priority — but the conversation is shifting:Real-world attacks driving urgency over theoretical discussionsBroadband, cloud, and remote access expanding attack surfacesZero-trust architectures becoming essential, not optionalLegacy systems like LMR now exposed through remote monitoringAI is also changing the cybersecurity landscape — for both attackers and defenders.🎭 Deepfakes, Disinformation, and Trust One of the most sobering discussions centers on AI-generated deepfakes:Fake images, video, and audio triggering real-world shutdownsPublic safety and transport systems facing new verification challengesThe evolution of “swatting” into AI-enabled disinformationWe discuss the growing need for multi-factor verification of information, combining video, sensors, telemetry, and contextual data to validate reality.🔄 Interoperability and the Shift to Platforms A major structural shift is underway:Moving from product-centric solutions to platform-based ecosystemsInteroperability evolving from point-to-point bridges to 360° platformsAPIs and standard interfaces enabling best-of-breed integrationsM&A activity accelerating platform expansionThis transition promises efficiency and flexibility — but also introduces new risks that must be managed carefully.🎥 Video Takes Center Stage Video is poised to become central to public safety operations in 2026:Body-worn cameras expanding beyond traditional vendorsDirect video to emergency servicesVideo as a core component of the common operating pictureThe convergence of video, broadband, and platforms is reshaping command and control environments.🚁 Drones, Satellites, and the Digital Airspace We explore the rapid growth of drones as first responders (DFR):Beyond visual line of sight operations gaining momentumGeofencing, remote control, and automation improving deploymentPotential use of LEO satellites as “towers in the sky”Expanding use cases in rural, mountainous, and hard-to-reach areasThis opens new possibilities for search and rescue, situational awareness, and faster response times.🌐 IoT, Telemetry, and Data Verification AI threats may actually revive IoT:Sensors as independent verification...
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  Ep 85: 2025 year in review - The defining moments in critical communications 18.12.2025 30นาที

  In this special end-of-year wrap-up episode of the Crit Comms Circle, we look back at 2025 and reflect on the key developments that shaped the critical communications industry over the past 12 months.Joined by Alfonso, Donny, and Erin, the team revisits the announcements, trends, and market shifts that moved the industry from discussion to action. From ESN milestones and MCX momentum to AI adoption, satellite connectivity, defense investments, and major M&A activity, this episode captures the themes that defined the year—and why they matter.If 2025 felt like a year where long-promised technologies finally became real, this episode explains why.Key Topics Discussed 🔹 ESN Progress & InteroperabilityIBM selected as the ESN User Services Supplier at the start of 2025Growing confidence in LMR–Broadband coexistenceEtherstack selected for interoperability in both UK ESN (TETRA) and AT&T FirstNet (P25)What these decisions signal for long-term ESN delivery and industry confidence🔹 MCX: From Trials to Commercial RealityMCX contracts and partnerships accelerating globallyFrance’s RRF moving into commercial operationsStreamwide’s expanding footprint in Europe and North AmericaSamsung, Airbus, Leonardo, Nokia, Ericsson, and L3Harris reshaping the MCX ecosystemLegacy LMR vendors positioning themselves for broadband futures🔹 Major M&A ActivityMotorola Solutions’ acquisitions of RapidDeploy and Silvus TechnologiesAxon’s acquisitions of Prepared and CarbyneOver $6B spent on acquisitions by two vendors alone in 2025Why Silvus signals the growing importance of defense and non-public-safety verticals🔹 Defense & GeopoliticsNATO’s increased defense spending targetsCommunications modernization beyond weapon systemsTactical, infrastructure-less comms and resilience in contested environmentsHow defense innovation historically feeds back into public safety🔹 Next-Gen 911 (NG911)AI’s role in handling non-emergency callsReal-world progress on ESInet-to-ESInet interoperabilityMaryland’s blueprint for seamless inter-jurisdiction call and data transfersReducing re-keying errors and dispatcher workload🔹 AI Adoption in Critical CommunicationsFindings from the Emerging Critical Tech Survey61% of organizations piloting or evaluating AI in 202581% expect AI to play a moderate or major role in the next 3–5 yearsEarly AI use cases: translation, triage support, automation of routine tasksAI as an enabler—not a replacement—for emergency professionals🔹 Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) & SatellitesT-Mobile’s T-Priority launch in the USAST SpaceMobile tests on FirstNet spectrumEuropean sovereign satellite initiatives involving Airbus, Thales, and LeonardoLEO, MEO, and GEO satellites as complementary—not competing—solutionsWhy satellite + terrestrial integration is no longer theoretical👉 Tune back in January for our “2026 Year Ahead” episode, where we break down expectations for the year to come.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 84: Unifying the emergency response workflow 11.11.2025 25นาที

  In this episode, we explore one of the biggest shifts shaping today’s mission-critical communications industry: the evolution toward unified platforms. As public safety operations become increasingly data-driven, the line between voice, data, and multimedia continues to blur. This change is driving agencies to seek greater interoperability, flexibility, and—above all—choice.With the recent announcement of Zetron’s new end-to-end critical communications platform, Salus, we dive into how unified architectures can streamline emergency workflows without forcing agencies into vendor lock-in.We're joined by Scott French, President & Executive General Manager at Zetron, who brings more than 35 years of experience across global leaders including Motorola and Panasonic. Scott shares his perspective on what next-generation platforms mean for public safety, why timing and emerging tech (AI, cloud) matter, and how Salus has been designed from the ground up to support diverse operational needs.💡 Top TakeawaysThe industry isn’t asking for fewer vendors—it’s asking for greater choice and interoperability.Unified platforms must be designed around operational workflows, not just technology layers.A shared UX across emergency response stages can reduce latency and error.Cloud-first strategies allow faster innovation, but hybrid + on-prem will remain essential depending on service and policy needs.Openness is key—platforms must integrate beyond their own vendor ecosystem.Agencies should shift away from assuming that “one vendor = best experience.”👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 83: Global trends: Signals you can't ignore 28.10.2025 46นาที

  In this special episode of the Crit Comms Circle podcast, we're sharing the audio from our recent guest appearance on Making Waves, the podcast hosted by DAMM Cellular. We joined Lone Hansen, Stuart Will, and Hauke Holm over at their podcast, Making Waves, for a conversation that spanned the global trends we're seeing across the industry.This big-picture conversation explores where the industry is heading - from PMR/LMR to broadband, from fragmented systems to integrated platforms, and from hardware sales to service models. The discussion covers the massive transformation underway, driven by digitalization and billions in investment, tackling macro trends, PMR vs. hybrid systems, cybersecurity urgency, and AI's role in first responder operations.Key Topics Covered:Emerging tech and vendor trends, including platform-based control rooms and AI's dual threat/promiseGlobal investment patterns and regional adoption barriersSystem deployment challenges, integration issues, and resilience planningThe role of government, policy, and standards in shaping industry outcomesPractical advice for buyers on prioritizing standards and ensuring network flexibilityThis episode offers a front-row look at the data, policies, and decisions defining the next decade of critical communications, featuring privileged insider perspectives from Omdia's leading experts.Listen to the original Making Waves episode here:SpreakerApple PodcastsSpotifyYouTubeDAMM websiteTimeline:00:00 Introduction03:55 The big picture11:20 Reliability market realities and friction points22:15 Investment, innovation & cost of ownership30:31 Security, regulation & resilience36:13 Looking ahead44:20 Wrap-upThis cross-podcast collaboration brings you valuable insights from multiple perspectives in the critical communications space.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 82: Busting the top 5 cloud computing myths 14.10.2025 30นาที

  In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest shifts in the public safety landscape: the move to the cloud. We are joined by Rohan Galloway-Dawkins, Chief Product Officer at Versaterm, to tackle and bust the top five myths that often surround cloud adoption in emergency services. From concerns about data security and control to questions of connectivity and interoperability.Top 5 myths discussed:Myth #1: Cloud migration automatically means the provider handles all your security.Reality: Security in the cloud follows a shared responsibility model. Providers secure the infrastructure, but agencies must manage their own policies, compliance and user practices.Myth #2: Moving to the cloud means losing control of your data.Reality: Your data remains yours. With clear contracts and responsible vendors, agencies retain full ownership and control. It's a partnership, not a handover.Myth #3: Cloud systems can't work in rural or low-connectivity areas.Reality: With proper planning and redundancy, modern connectivity (including satellite and multi-ISP solutions) makes reliable cloud access achievable almost anywhere.Myth #4: Mission critical systems like CAD are too important to move to the cloud.Reality: Cloud platforms now offer higher availability, reliability, and disaster recovery capabilities than most on-prem setups. In fact, by 2030, over 80% of CADs systems are forecasted to be cloud-based.Myth #5: Cloud solutions make interoperability harder.Reality: Quite the opposite. Cloud systems enhance interoperability by making it easier to share data and coordinate across jurisdictions, although careful planningand governance remain key.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 81: From the lab to the tracks - Making FRMCS a reality 30.09.2025 46นาที

  Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) has been set up to provide railways with a standardized, future-proof communication solution capable of supporting advanced rail operations and services. FRMCS builds on 3GPP-based 5G standalone and mission-critical (MCX) architectures to support the new ETCS as a replacement for GSM-R. But the path towards FRMCS is way more than a straight-forward technology upgrade. The development of FRMCS is a testament to the power of collaboration among diverse stakeholders across the railway ecosystem.In this episode, we're joined by Marta Fontecha and Raquel Frisa from Teltronic (www.teltronic.es/en/transport/), who share first-hand insights, from lab trials to field pilot deployments like their upcoming high-speed trial, in collaboration with the Spanish railway operator Adif.  The discussion highlights the key learnings to make FRMCS the backbone of safer, more efficient railway transportation networks.👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 80: Transparency and trust with AI Labels 09.09.2025 32นาที

  In this episode, we explore the critical topic of AI transparency and how Motorola Solutions is pioneering a new approach to responsible innovation.In July 2025, Motorola unveiled AI Labels for its Public Safety and Enterprise Security products. These are digital transparency tools that explain, in clear terms, the role of AI in mission critical environments.Much like nutrition labels on food products, these AI labels break down the "ingredients" of AI: the type of AI being used, who owns the data, how human controls are applied, and the specific purpose of the AI feature. The goal is to demystify AI for customers, communities, and stakeholders while ensuring accountability and trust.To walk us through the origins, design, and broader implicaitons of this innovation, we are joined by Jehan Wickramasuriya - Senior Vice President, Security & Resilience Software at Motorola Solutions.What you'll learn this episodeThe origins of AI labels: Why Motorola introduced them and how both internal motivations and customer demand shaped their creation.Design inspiration: How nutrition labels and academic research on transparency informed the structure of AI labels.Key components: Type of AI used, data ownership, human controls, purpose, and multi-level access to deeper information.Real-world applications: How AI enhances emergency call handling, video analytics, and Enterprise workflows through features like Assist.Procurement & policy implications: How AI labels are already influencing customer conversations, procurement processes, and responsible innovation across industries.Looking ahead: The potential evolution of AI labels, continuous iteration, and their role in building reciprocal trust between technology providers, agencies, and the communities they serve.Resources and LinksMotorola Solutions Trust Center: AI Labels👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 79: CCW 2025 Recap & Highlights 22.07.2025 28นาที

  In this special post-event episode, we unpack everything from the recent Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025, held at the Brussels Expo from June 17–19. This year’s event was the largest CCW to date, buzzing with new exhibitors, groundbreaking demos, and intense energy on the show floor.From the packed conference halls to in-depth discussions at the Global Village, this episode captures the biggest takeaways—from global program updates to award-winning innovations.🔹 Global Village HighlightsWe recap 8 of the 15 national program updates presented this year:UK: Targeting full ESN readiness by Q4 2028, with Airwave extended to 2031Germany: Restarting their broadband transition after procurement disruptionsDenmark: Exploring broadband options, no firm timeline yetCanada: National PSBN stalled, but regional pilots show promiseHungary: Building a unified LT/5G public sector networkIndia: Adopting a hybrid model blending public LTE with private networksRomania: Structured transition from TETRA to mission-critical broadbandFrance: Leading the EU shift with the RRF program and a strong focus on resilience and interoperability🔹 End-User Driven InnovationCase study: Motorola’s WAVE PTX solution in Brazil bridging fragmented networksReal-world challenges like interoperability and cross-agency collaborationEnd users shaping design and deployment from day one👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 78: Policing in the Digital Age - Lancashire Constabulary's Technology Transformation 24.06.2025 38นาที

  In this episode, we explore Lancashire Constabulary's recent digital transformation. We dive into how innovative technologies like advanced control room systems, upgraded body worn cameras, and in-car video, are reshaping frontline policing. We are joined by Chief Superintendent Chris Hardy. With over 18 years of experience, and a deep passion for innovation, Chris provides a comprehensive view of how strategic tech investment is improving officer efficiency, community safety, and evidential quality, while ensuring teams stay connected and supported.What we coverThe technology rollout: Lancashire Constabulary's deployment of 1,750 new body worn cameras (Motorola Solutions V500's), Pronto mobile application, and the M500 in-car video system.From Legacy to Leading-edge: A retrosepctive look at the evolution of policing tech, from early headcams to the urrent integrated ecosystem.Modernising control rooms: How new live streaming capabilities are transforming incident response and improving situational awareness in real-time.Evidence collection and court efficiencies: The pwoer of HD video in simplifying court proceedings, reducing officer court time, and strengthening victim journeys through the justice system.Team-led innovation: Why collaboration across ICT, fleet, and operational teams has been essential for a successful transformation.System integration and interoperability: The critical importance of connected platforms, and how avoiding data silos helps reduce rekeying errors, improve accuracy, and maximise efficiency.Advice for other agencies: Chris shares strategic insights for other public safety organisations exploring similar transformation journeys, including lessons learned, vendor relationships, and the importance of being an informed customer.Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?Get in touch with us at [email protected] 👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 77: Beyond public safety - The evolving economics of critical communications 27.05.2025 43นาที

  In this episode, we dive into the shifting landscape of mission-critical communications, especially as broadband technologies continue disrupting traditional models. Our special guest, Stuart Will, VP of Sales at DAMM Cellular Systems, joins us to unpack how enterprise verticals beyond public safety are redefining what “critical” truly means in communication infrastructure. From utilities and mining to transportation and offshore wind farms, Stuart shares real-world insights from global markets and customer experiences. We explore how decision-makers in 2025 are weighing cost, security, and performance—and how coexistence between narrowband and broadband is no longer theoretical, but increasingly the norm.Key Topics DiscussedThe Evolving Definition of "Critical Comms": Why reliable communication is now a lifeline across multiple industries, not just public safety.Vertical-Specific Needs: What mining, transportation, utilities, and wind farms require from mission-critical networks—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.Narrowband vs. Broadband: Coexistence & Reality: Why hybrid models are taking hold, and how enterprises are embracing “better together” approaches instead of full transitions.Economics Behind the Gear: How strategic buying decisions, OPEX models, and managed services are transforming procurement for critical infrastructure.Security, Reliability & SLA Pressures: What makes narrowband still indispensable despite the data promise of LTE/5G—and how cyber threats and system uptime influence long-term investments.Lessons for End Users: How adjacent verticals and system integrators can offer valuable procurement insight—and why manufacturers may be a crucial resource for cross-industry best practices.Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?Get in touch with us at [email protected] 👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 76: Key Takeaways from EENA 2025: AI, NG112, User Experience 15.05.2025 25นาที

  In this episode, we dive into the key highlights and reflections from EENA 2025, the European Emergency Number Association’s annual conference and trade show held in Helsinki, Finland. With over 800 attendees from 50+ countries, the event sparked critical conversations on emergency communications, next-generation technologies, and end-user experience.Joining us are returning guest Benoit Vivier and first-time guest Christina Lumbreras, both of EENA, who share their insights and top moments from the event.Key Topics DiscussedThe Energy and Engagement at EENA 2025AI in Emergency CommunicationsNG112 and MCX: Converging TechnologiesFocus on User Experience and Operator Well-beingThe Policy Perspective: EU Digital Networks ActResources & LinksEENA Main WebsiteEENA Conference WebsiteEU Commissioner’s Video MessageHave a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?Get in touch with us at [email protected] 👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 75: IWCE 2025 - LEOs and MEOs and GEOs 01.05.2025 57นาที

  In this episode, we venture beyond the stratosphere to explore the evolving world of satellite constellations. From GEOs to MEOs to LEOs—and even high-altitude platforms in the REO (Regional Earth Orbit) layer—we unpack the technology, applications, and future of global connectivity.Recorded live at IWCE, this session is one of over 150 expert-led presentations delivered at the conference. Now available as part of the IWCE Digital Pass, you can access this and every session—on demand—for a complete look at the latest in mission-critical communications.Check out the IWCE Digital Pass here: IWCE 2025 For this episode, what you'll learn:LEO vs. GEO vs. MEO vs. RIO: What each orbit does best, and why no single orbit fits all use cases.Satellite Applications in Public Safety: Emergency response, disaster recovery, rural healthcare, utilities, and beyond.Multi-Orbit Architecture: How merging GEO and LEO networks (like Eutelsat-OneWeb) offers hybrid resiliency, bandwidth, and latency benefits.In-Building & Remote Connectivity Challenges: Why satellite tech isn’t for skyscrapers—but excels where towers don’t reach.Cybersecurity & Satellite Resilience: How satellites defend against interference, spoofing, and geopolitical tensions.Future of Direct-to-Device & Beamforming: The race to make satellites more like your local LTE tower—but in the sky.Key Takeaways:LEO = low latency; GEO = capacity workhorse; MEO = GPS backbone; RIO = future of direct-to-device.Satellite is no longer just a backup—it's a dynamic part of modern hybrid networks.With beamforming, 5G, and evolving interoperability, satellites are becoming smarter, faster, and more agile.This recording is just one of over 150 sessions from IWCE. Want access to the full conference experience—including expert panels, technology briefings, and hands-on solution demos?➡️ Buy the IWCE Digital Pass to stream every session. The digital pass will be active through june 30, 2025!Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?Get in touch with us at [email protected] 👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 74: Securing the backbone - Protecting physical security in critical comms infrastructure 15.04.2025 38นาที

  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 attentionThe transition from government-owned to commercial networks—and what that meansLegal, operational, and contractual frameworks for ensuring infrastructure protectionInsights from Finland, Norway, and the UK on national approachesThe challenges of regulation, transparency, and vendor involvementHow Europe and beyond can move toward harmonized minimum standardsThe role of mobile network operators (MNOs)—and why they need to be part of the conversationA big thanks to our guests for this episode:Lasantha De Alwis – Telecoms Policy and Regulation Lead, UK Home Office Emergency Services Mobile Communication ProgrammeNina Myren – Specialist Director, Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB); Chair, TCCA Legal and Regulatory Working GroupKari 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 CommunicationsKey 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 [email protected] 👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 73: Voices from BAPCO - What you missed and what's next 02.04.2025 37นาที

  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 motorbikeHexagon – Browser-based control tools, VR experiments, and a unified platform approachFrequentis – Their growing UK presence, control room integration, and role in the ESN consortiumNEC (formerly SSS) – Exciting AI-driven control room features and expanded mobile capabilitiesZetron – Soft-launch of their UK-focused CAD platform and global AI aspirationsWe also touch on:AI usage across the control room – practical uses, guardrails, and the human-in-the-loop approachThe ESN relaunch – What’s different this time and why there's real momentum behind itGaps still needing attention – notably, the device ecosystem and end-user readinessHave a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?Get in touch with us at [email protected]👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]  
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  Ep 72: The future of mission-critical systems: autonomous, cloud-native networks 11.03.2025 37นาที

  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 [email protected] 👋 Get Involved:Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at [email protected]