Implications of 5G for Police Technology

Since its introduction in 2018, 5G wireless technology has been expanding across the U.S.. Even as 5G has become more ubiquitous in everything from personal use to police technology, many consumers are still unclear about what 5G is and how it operates, leading to public skepticism and even unfounded conspiracies about the technology. 

In a recent webinar, I sat with two experts, Alfred Tolentino, Senior Manager of Engineering at Panasonic Connect and Shawn Romanoski, Director of Telecommunications at Boston Police Department, about 5G and its potential uses in public safety. We reviewed the advantages and challenges facing law enforcement organizations as they integrate 5G technology.

What Are the Advantages of 5G Technology?

5G, or fifth-generation wireless technology, is wireless tech designed to provide the fastest, most reliable connection with greatly reduced latency. This expands device capabilities beyond what was available with previous 4G technology.

There are currently two types of 5G:

• Non-Standalone (NSA). This refers to 5G connections that use existing 4G infrastructure to initiate connection. This allows carriers to expand 5G coverage but limits 5G’s full potential.
• Standalone (SA). This refers to 5G connections utilizing infrastructure designed for 5G technology. This unlocks 5G’s full potential, but infrastructure must be built to expand SA coverage.

The difference between NSA and SA 5G technology is important as it affects how public safety agencies can implement 5G technology alongside police technology.

How 5G Affects the Internet of Things (IoT) in Police Technology

IoT has many potential uses in police technology, and 5G further expands what is possible:

• More Devices: Between mobile devices, wearable devices, in-vehicle devices, and command devices, law enforcement relies on technology more than ever. 5G allows expanded use of multiple devices at the same time.
• More Data, Delivered Faster: 5G’s low latency allows large amounts of data to be transmitted. This allows real-time video and audio to be transmitted from squad cars, officer devices, and even helicopters and/or drones — all at the same time. Unhindered access to this information improves situational awareness and facilitates faster response times by allowing dispatchers to control traffic signals and respond to quickly changing situations.
•  Better Communication: More data being transmitted by more devices means more information being shared between parties. This includes sharing between responding officers, with command and dispatch, and even with responding EMTs or nearby trauma centers. Better communication leads to better results, especially when split-second decisions save lives.

This much complex data can be overwhelming. AI can sift through the data and provide relevant information and actionable data to decision-makers. However, there are challenges to integrating AI, as it’s a new technology that needs careful implementation and, at this point, still requires human verification to ensure the accuracy of the data it passes on.

Implementing 5G in Law Enforcement Technology

Because current 5G SA infrastructure tends to be limited to more urban settings, this is a consideration for how devices are deployed. Officers don’t want to lose tactical capability when they cross city lines. And in rural areas especially, it may be a while before 5G infrastructure is in place. This is where public/private partnerships become imperative for the most effective technology implementation.

Here are some of the benefits of partnering with Panasonic Connect to implement 5G technology at your agency:

• TOUGHBOOK devices have superior connectivity and durability allowing for 5G, 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Panasonic Connect works with agencies to understand their needs and ensure that the right devices are deployed.
  
• Devices incorporate existing tech like eSIM and GPS.
  

The Right Police Technology Partner Unlocks the Potential of 5G

5G technology can help law enforcement effectively respond to situations they face daily. But embracing 5G technology implementation isn’t without challenges. The right technology partner can help public safety organizations meet these challenges and get the most out of their public safety technology, now and in the future.

For more information, watch the full webinar.