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In October 2025, AT&T will roll out a big change to its ESInet system (part of its Next Generation 9‑1‑1 network) that makes it easy to send pictures and videos to 911 dispatchers. Think of it like texting your family, but for emergencies.
As announced by the wireless carrier, once your phone dials 911, you’ll be able to add snapshots or video clips to help explain what’s happening.
AT&T’s ESInet is no newcomer—it’s been live since 2018, replacing older analog lines with modern, faster fiber-based IP networks. More than 1,700 emergency call centers have already upgraded, serving around 75 million people.
What’s new now is the ability to include visual info in a 911 call. That could be a video of a car crash, a picture of a dangerous situation, or even a snapshot of a building’s floor plan—something that could save crucial seconds.
Besides media messaging, AT&T is strengthening ESInet with private, secure internet links so dispatchers can safely access public safety data in the cloud without risking cyber intrusions.
And drivers in select 2026 Toyota models equipped with AT&T’s Connected Car SIM can now automatically send crash details (like whether airbags deployed and exact location) right to 911 centers.
So what’s the impact for everyday people? When seconds matter, like during car crashes, fires, or crimes in progress, your dispatcher could see exactly what you see. That gives them a clearer picture before help arrives, potentially speeding up assistance and improving outcomes.
With this move, AT&T steps ahead of other U.S. carriers. The tech uses open standards, meaning other providers can adopt it too. That means it won’t just be AT&T users who benefit—ideally, all 911 callers will eventually be able to share pictures and videos effortlessly.
In plain terms: sooner or later, when you dial 911, you’ll likely be able to tap and send a photo or video, helping you show—not just tell—what’s going on. And if your car crashes, a signal might go out automatically. It’s a leap into visual emergency calls—and it starts this October.
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