AT&T Launches Location-Based Routing for Wireless 911 Calls

AT&T has announced the launch of location-based routing for wireless 911 calls.

Using a 'Locate Before Route' feature from Intrado, AT&T can now quickly and more accurately identify where a wireless 911 call is coming from using device GPS and hybrid information. It can then route the call to the correct 911 call center, also called a public safety answering point (PSAP).

With location-based routing, a device can be located and routed within 50 meters of the device location. Prior to this launch, wireless 9-1-1 calls were routed based on the location of cell towers, which can cover up to a 10-mile radius. This can cause delays in emergency response, especially when a call is made within PSAP border areas where state, county or city boundaries overlap.


"Providing our customers with reliable connectivity and high-quality service on America’s largest wireless network is what we strive for everyday at AT&T," says Chris Sambar, EVP, AT&T Network. "Launching this industry-leading public safety solution allows us to ultimately help improve the connections and efficiency for our wireless customers by offering more accurate service when making emergency calls."

The nationwide rollout has started and is available in Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Kansas, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Guam. Additional regions will be rolled out over the next several weeks. The nationwide rollout is scheduled to be completed by the end of June.

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