FCC Explores GPS Alternatives and Enhancements to 911 Tech

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to vote on an inquiry into alternatives to the Global Positioning System (GPS), according to a blog post by FCC Chair Brendan Carr. Despite its indispensable nature, GPS is not infallible, and any disruptions could potentially undermine the nation's economic and national security. As a result, the FCC is looking to develop redundant technologies and explore other Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems that could serve as complements or alternatives to GPS. In addition to this, the FCC plans to vote on two proposals regarding 911 technology. The first proposal aims to update existing rules to ensure the resiliency, reliability, interoperability, and accessibility of Next Generation 911 (NG911), an internet-connected emergency technology set to replace legacy 911 systems. The second proposal looks to strengthen 911 location accuracy rules to potentially improve the information first responders receive about a person's location, including the ability to more accurately find callers on specific floors in buildings. These issues are tentatively on the agenda for the FCC's open meeting on March 27th.

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The Need for GPS Alternatives

The FCC's exploration of GPS alternatives is driven by the potential risks of heavy reliance on the technology. GPS disruptions could have significant implications for the nation's economic and national security. As such, the FCC is looking to develop redundant technologies and explore other PNT systems that could serve as complements or alternatives to GPS.

Improving 911 Technology

The FCC also plans to vote on two proposals aimed at improving 911 technology. The first proposal seeks to update existing rules to ensure the resiliency, reliability, interoperability, and accessibility of NG911, an internet-connected emergency technology set to replace legacy 911 systems. The second proposal aims to strengthen 911 location accuracy rules to potentially improve the information first responders receive about a person's location.