EENA is pleased to publish its first report on advances in direct-to-device emergency communications, and their potential impact on emergency communications in Europe.
This report offers an overview of recent advancements in satellite communications, their potential impact on emergency communications, and the legal frameworks which may apply to them.
Smartphones will soon be able to connect with satellites in Low Earth Orbit to send communications in areas without a terrestrial cell connection. While the use of this new technology, known as “direct-to-device”, may be limited in Europe due to its strong terrestrial coverage, it could have a considerable impact on access to emergency services. Potential benefits for emergency communications include enhanced access to 112 and public warning systems in remote areas, and the provision of a fallback network when terrestrial systems fail. As a result, direct-to-device has the potential to significantly improve the resilience of 112 in Europe.
However, this new technology also presents some open questions and challenges for emergency communications professionals. Direct-to-device communications using number based interpersonal communications fall under the scope of Article 109 EECC, the main piece of EU legislation setting standards for emergency communications. As a result it will be important to ensure that emergency communications over these networks are routed to the most appropriate PSAP, include caller location, and remain free of charge for the user. The most complex of these issues will likely be routing, which will need to be handled differently to terrestrial emergency communications. Wider risks connected to sovereignty, and the potential impact of this new, potentially less reliable technology on universal service obligations will also have to be considered.
As a next step, EENA will work with the EU institutions to ensure that future legislation such as the Digital Networks Act, and the European Space Act, both expected in 2025, account for emergency communication’s needs for satellite communications. EENA will also provide a presentation on this report at EENA 2025.