Samsung to supply LTE-enabled smartphones for UK emergency network

Samsung has secured a contract with the United Kingdom's Home Office to supply LTE-enabled smartphones and related accessories for the emergency services network, which includes the ambulance, fire and police departments.

The region's response bodies currently use an airwave system to communicate that's limited to voice radio; however, Samsung's network will provide a slew of additional cellular-based capabilities, including location services.

“Next-generation public safety communications is an important area of focus for Samsung,” said Hahn Suk-Jea, Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ Global Mobile Business-to-Business Team on Sunday, November 26.

“We hope our partnership with ESN and UK emergency services organizations will bring our technology to the entire public safety community on the front line, supporting the great work they do every day,” Suk-Jea added.

Galaxy S8 Active

It's unclear what specific smartphones the Home Office has ordered, but the Galaxy S8 Active would seem the most logical choice—if the firm can import it into the United Kingdom, that is—because it's both durable and powerful.