Core Insights - Nearly half of first responders anticipate daily use of AI and drones or robots within the next five years, indicating a significant shift in operational capabilities [1][6][10] - The survey highlights a strong emphasis on cybersecurity, with 67% of public safety agencies implementing new protections in the past year [8][11] - Access to a reliable and resilient network is deemed critical for effective communication, with 78% of respondents reporting improved field communications due to such access [1][9][11] AI and Drone Adoption - There is a dramatic 13-point year-over-year increase in interest in AI, with 46% of respondents expecting to use AI solutions daily within five years, up from 12% currently [5][7][10] - Drone usage is projected to triple, with 48% of first responders planning to integrate drones into daily operations within the next five years, compared to just 15% currently [5][6][10] Cybersecurity Concerns - Cybersecurity is a top priority for public safety agencies, with 67% reporting new cybersecurity measures implemented in the last year to protect critical infrastructure [8][11] - The increasing threat of ransomware and breaches has prompted agencies to take proactive steps in enhancing their cybersecurity posture [8] Network Reliability - For the second consecutive year, first responders identified reliable network access as the most critical feature for both daily and emergency communications, with reported importance rising from 65% to 75% for day-to-day operations [9][11] - The foundational role of robust connectivity in public safety operations is underscored by the consistent emphasis on network reliability [9][11] Emerging Technologies - The survey indicates a growing acceptance of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), with 33% of first responders expecting daily use in five years, up from just 8% today [13] - Connected vehicles are also gaining attention, with 20% of respondents identifying them as a top priority for their agencies, second only to 5G connectivity [13]