Image Credits: RapidDeploy
American public safety technology hegemon, Motorola Solutions, has completed the acquisition of RapidDeploy, a cloud-based provider of Next Generation 911 solutions. With the completion of this deal, Motorola Solutions will be able to further expand its portfolio in the critical emergency response sector, as public safety agencies increasingly adopt advanced, data-driven technologies.
RapidDeploy was founded in South Africa. However, it has its headquarters in Austin, Texas. The company offers an array of cloud-native tools designed to improve the speed and efficiency of emergency responses. Some of its offerings include precise real-time mapping of caller locations, a mobile application for first responders providing direct access to 911 data, and analytics tools to optimise call handling and staffing at Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). RapidDeploy currently supports over 1,600 PSAPs across 24 US states.
“In emergency situations, access to rapid and accurate information is paramount. RapidDeploy’s platform delivers critical data to first responders, shaving crucial seconds off response times and enhancing preparedness in the field.” said Mahesh Saptharishi, chief technology officer at Motorola Solutions.
This acquisition highlights the increasing importance of NG911 systems – digital IP-based networks, which are touted as the replacement for traditional analogue infrastructure. These next-generation systems enable richer communication, including text, data, images, and video, between the public and emergency services, and amongst first responders themselves.
The acquisition also gives Motorola Solutions the initiative as it aims to capitalise on the ongoing transition to NG911 systems within public safety agencies. Emergency response will become increasingly reliant on real-time data and interconnected technologies. This will allow companies that offer integrated solutions to gain a competitive edge. For Motorola Solutions, the addition of RapidDeploy’s cloud-native expertise strengthens its hand in this evolving landscape and reinforces its commitment to providing comprehensive public safety solutions.
RapidDeploy’s technology is already integrated with Motorola Solutions’ Rave platform, which provides public safety data aggregation and notification services. Motorola Solutions stated it intends to further integrate RapidDeploy’s capabilities into its VESTA 911 call handling software and its AI-powered VESTA NXT platform. This move is expected to enhance the speed and efficiency of telecommunicators and first responders, providing them with improved situational awareness during critical incidents.
Steve Raucher, co-founder and CEO of RapidDeploy, said. “Joining Motorola Solutions allows us to accelerate innovation in 911 technology and further our mission of saving lives by reducing response times,” he said. While the financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, RapidDeploy has attracted significant venture capital funding, raising $86 million from investors including AT&T Ventures, Ericsson Ventures, and GM Ventures.
