French operator introduces broadband push-to-talk service

SFR, a French telecommunications operator, will deliver a broadband mission critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) service through its nationwide network.

SFR will use Motorola Solutions’ network-integrated, mission-critical broadband PTT solution. This next-generation unified communications platform will offer SFR customers high-quality, instant voice communication.

The PTT service will connect individuals and groups instantly over SFR’s LTE network and includes a large set of enhanced multimedia services, such as push-to-video, push-to-text, geo-location and geo-fencing.

The mission-critical broadband PTT service also offers integration options with existing two-way radio networks used by public safety and commercial organisations, allowing users to extend PTT communications beyond the coverage boundaries of their radio system and to add new user groups that would typically not carry two-way radios.

Gregory Rabuel, executive director at SFR Business, commented, “The new broadband PTT service will allow our business and government customers to take advantage of two way-radio-communication and broadband technologies over SFR’s leading LTE infrastructure. As one of France’s leading specialists in telecoms and communications, SFR is committed to providing the very highest quality of service and reliability to its customers, especially as the technology is crucial in mission-critical situations.”

The SFR offering will also include Motorola Solutions’ rugged LTE LEX 11 device suite designed for mission-critical operations. These technologies come together to create a reliable, end-to-end solution from the platform through the network to devices.

“We are very proud to be the chosen partner of SFR to roll out their nationwide broadband PTT service for their business and government customers'', added Kris Patel, vice president, unified communications at Motorola Solutions. “Our network-integrated broadband PTT platform delivers best-in-class performance in terms of cost efficiency, reliability, scalability, voice quality and the wide range of advanced features it offers. We are also delighted to see that SNCF has chosen SFR’s service based on our technology to keep their trains moving and passengers safe.”

The new broadband PTT service is suitable for use across multiple sectors, such as transportation, construction, utilities, healthcare, public services and industrial environments. It also supports emergency services and can be easily scaled to securely add new internal staff or third-party partners, enabling rapid response to changing needs or developing situations.