Kyocera and Mutualink Help First Responders Save Precious Time Communicating in Emergencies

SAN DIEGO – December 3, 2020 – Time is never more precious than in an emergency. The right communication tool can literally save lives. With the advanced Mutualink @Team multimedia push-to-talk (PTT) application and Kyocera’s ultra-rugged DuraForce PRO 2  Android™ smartphone, first responders can reduce crucial communication time with quick access to individuals and information. The secure multimedia PTT with broadband connectivity provides Incident Command System (ICS) based True Interoperability® between agencies in emergencies, enabling instant real-time sharing of crucial video, text messages and location to pre-determined or ad hoc talkgroups. The @Team app is an easy download from the Google Play™ store on DuraForce PRO 2^*. 

First responders can find themselves in extreme temperatures and weather - fires, snowstorms, flashfloods, etc. – and they require a mobile device that can withstand the elements. Kyocera’s DuraForce PRO 2 is built rugged from the inside out, without bulk, with cutting-edge technology and features designed to function seamlessly in life’s emergencies. Its built-in certified IP68 dust proof and waterproof and Military Standard 810G protection against drops, shock, dirt, rain, snow, and other harsh conditions ensure the device can withstand even the harshest environments. Robust all-day batteries easily power through shifts and front-facing dual loudspeakers with an advanced echo and noise cancellation system enable clear audio even in the noisiest situations. A dedicated button can be programmed for instant one-touch communication using the @Team PTT app. A wide-angle lens captures images and video in both vertical and horizontal formats, enabling first responders to share more accurate images of their environments, providing a cost-effective body worn camera option. The touchscreen is designed to work when wet or with gloves, ensuring ease-of-use in emergency situations. Android Enterprise Recommended with ongoing security updates, the device utilizes FIPS 140-2 validation module and includes a fingerprint security sensor for biometric authentication, plus it’s covered by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty that includes water damage. 

“Fast, accurate communication is important for every industry, but never as much as when getting crucial information during an emergency since lives can depend on it,” said Vipul Dalal, general manager at Kyocera’s Communications Equipment Group. “Hardware, software and network capabilities must be optimized at all

times for first responders to communicate instantly with each other and other agencies. This solution turns the

ultra-rugged DuraForce PRO 2 into a mobile Command Center with real-time communication along with highly secure video, location and data sharing to streamline operations when it counts the most.” 

"Pairing Mutualink's multimedia interoperability apps with Kyocera's ultra-rugged smartphones creates more competitive choice for the nation's first responders, who require dependable, flexible communications solutions to more quickly resolve emergency incidents," said Joe Mazzarella, president and chief operating officer of Mutualink. "This partnership with Kyocera is our next step in providing extended communications solutions during the coronavirus pandemic, enabling clear, complete and timely sharing of information between and among first responders, hospitals and private security teams." 

Kyocera’s rugged devices are used by first responders nationwide and Mutualink has been providing secure, interoperable communications to public safety for years, making the combined offering an especially trusted, reliable solution. The @Team application on DuraForce PRO 2 enables:

Push-to-Talk Plus Video – secure push-to-talk. Beyond traditional voice PTT, emergency teams can share photos, locations, streaming video, even data files with each other.

One-to-Many Sharing – secure one-to-many voice, text, video and data sharing to a group in real time. Each user can also participate in collaboration sessions with outside agencies through their agency’s Interoperable Workstation (IWS) appliance or Edge IWS application.

EoIP & Location Services – secure Everything-over-IP protocol turns push- to-talk to push-to-see + talk. All forms of connectivity are supported. Geolocation maps show where your team is in real time (optional by device/user).

Multiple Talkgroups – multiple talkgroups are possible per device, including managed and ad hoc groups. Broadcast voice, video and text to all group members at once.

Access to the Mutualink Network – users can participate in network incidents to collaborate daily with other agencies for large planned events and during emergency situations. Mutual aid incidents resolve faster with LMR <–> LTE communications bridged across agencies.

Secure & Scalable

The secure and scalable @Team is HIPAA- and FERPA-compliant, with AES-256 encryption to protect communications from leakage or hacking plus a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security.

DuraForce PRO 2 and Mutualink are certified to operate on FirstNet -- built with AT&T -- the first nationwide network dedicated to public safety, and the Verizon network.