AI, drones, and cybersecurity rising fast in public safety—Verizon study
A new Verizon Frontline study shows that first responders see artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, drones, and robots as critical technologies for the future of public safety.
The findings point to a rapid shift in how public safety agencies across the U.S. are preparing for the next era of emergency response — with Ohio agencies among those investing heavily in cybersecurity and exploring AI and drone applications.
By the numbers
71% of respondents believe AI will be a top priority or important to the future of public safety.
67% of agencies reported adding new cybersecurity protections in the past year.
48% expect to use drones or robots daily within five years, up from just 15% today.
78% said reliable, resilient network access has already improved communications in the field.
Key insights
AI is poised for explosive adoption, with nearly half of first responders planning daily use within five years — a 13-point jump in interest from last year.
Drone integration is expected to triple in that same timeframe, accelerated by the FAA’s relaxation of line-of-sight requirements.
Cybersecurity has become a top priority amid rising ransomware threats and third-party breaches, with two-thirds of agencies bolstering defenses.
Reliable networks remain the backbone of all these innovations. For the second year in a row, first responders ranked connectivity as the most critical feature for day-to-day and emergency operations.
What they’re saying
“We’re seeing a dramatic surge in AI interest, with nearly half of respondents planning to integrate AI into their daily operations within five years, while drone usage is expected to triple,” said Alison Brooks, VP of Worldwide Public Safety at IDC Research.
“The enhanced situational awareness provided by AI and the access drones enable are helping revolutionize public safety and emergency response,” added Maggie Hallbach, President of Verizon Frontline.
The bottom line
The survey also highlights emerging interest in augmented and virtual reality, with one-third of respondents expecting daily AR/VR use by 2030. Connected vehicles and 5G connectivity are also climbing the priority list.
First responders are moving quickly from experimentation to adoption when it comes to advanced technologies. Cybersecurity, AI, and network reliability remain the foundation — but drones and robots are becoming central to how public safety agencies see their future operations.
Read the full Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey here.