New Generation of Purpose-Built Routers With 5G Network Slicing Support Enables Dedicated Connectivity Lanes for Mission-Critical First Responder Operations
Semtech Corporation (NASDAQ:SMTC), a leading provider of high-performance semiconductor, Internet of Things (IoT) systems and cloud connectivity service solutions, today announced the availability of the AirLink® XR80 and XR90 Gen2 multi-network routers. These purpose-built solutions help address critical mobility challenges facing public safety teams through advanced network slicing capabilities and Semtech's proven reliability heritage.
As public safety agencies rapidly adopt AI-powered analytics, real-time video streaming, and autonomous systems for emergency response, traditional network infrastructure struggles to guarantee the bandwidth and reliability these mission-critical applications demand. With police departments across the U.S. handling more than 240 million calls to 911 each year and communication demands intensifying during natural disasters and large-scale emergencies, first responders require connectivity solutions designed specifically for life-critical operations.
"Verizon Frontline's network slice certification process validates connectivity solutions that can reliably deliver the dedicated performance public agencies require," said Calvin W. Jackson, senior manager, Verizon Frontline Crisis Response. "Semtech's AirLink XR80 and XR90 Gen2 routers have demonstrated the technical capabilities and ruggedization standards that meet our requirements for mission-critical deployments."
"Public safety leaders choose Semtech because we deliver the proven performance they need when communities depend on them most," said Kinana Hussain, vice president of networking solutions at Semtech. "The XR80 and XR90 Gen2 solutions represent our continued commitment to helping first responders maintain their critical communications advantage during life-saving operations."
Mission-Critical Performance Through Advanced 5G Capabilities
The XR80 and XR90 Gen2 routers deliver substantial performance advances designed specifically for public safety requirements:
- 5G network slicing support with Verizon Frontline Network Slice certification
- Highest performing routers in Semtech AirLink family for faster, more responsive connectivity
- Extended band support, including band B106 for Anterix private LTE networks
- Extended operational lifespan based on newest-generation Semtech cellular modules
5G network slicing technology creates dedicated "lanes" of network capacity for the exclusive use of first responders. This capability provides prioritized connectivity that can improve response times, situational awareness, and operational coordination—even during high-demand scenarios such as natural disasters, large-scale emergencies, or major public events.
The XR80 and XR90 each feature high-performance Wi-Fi 6 and dual 5G cellular radios offering up to 900 Mbps upload speeds and 4.5 Gbps download speeds. Combined with Semtech's patented Cognitive Wireless network switching technology and 5G network slicing support, the routers can deliver ultra-reliable connectivity for mission-critical applications.
Comprehensive Network Management
Both routers include one year of AirLink Services with hardware warranty, 24/7 support, remote management and out-of-band management (OOBM) capabilities through the cloud-based AirLink Management Service (ALMS) platform—with the XR90 also providing advanced mobility reporting. This allows public safety agencies to securely monitor, manage, and automatically update router deployments at scale without overwhelming their already-stretched IT support teams.
Semtech is also expanding management options for its AirLink OS-based routers—including the XR80 and XR90 Gen2—through initial support for AirLink Manager (AM) and AirLink Mobility Manager (AMM) platform. These management solutions can be deployed hosted or on-premises, providing AirLink customers with unprecedented flexibility to choose the management solution that best fits their operational and organizational requirements. Organizations will be able to select from cloud-based management via ALMS, hybrid cloud through ALMS with on-premises authorization, or fully on-premises management via AM or AMM solutions. Customer rollouts are expected to begin in November 2025 with AM/AMM 2.18 release, establishing the foundation for expanded capabilities in future updates.
Availability
The XR80 and XR90 Gen2 5G routers are available immediately through Semtech AirLink's authorized channel partners, with certification completed across all major U.S. carriers and global 5G network certifications in progress.
See the XR80 and XR90 Gen2 at IACP 2025
Visit Semtech at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) 2025, Oct. 18-21 in booth #3714 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver for live demonstrations of 5G network slicing and integrated connectivity solutions.
For more information about the AirLink XR80 and XR90 Gen2 routers, visit:
About Semtech
Semtech Corporation (NASDAQ:SMTC) is a leading provider of high-performance semiconductor, IoT systems and cloud connectivity service solutions dedicated to delivering high-quality technology solutions that enable a smarter, more connected and sustainable planet. Our global teams are committed to empowering solution architects and application developers to develop breakthrough products for the infrastructure, industrial and consumer markets. To learn more about Semtech technology, visit us at Semtech.com or follow us on LinkedIn or X.
Semtech, the Semtech logo, and AirLink are registered trademarks or service marks of Semtech Corporation or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks and trade names mentioned may be marks and names of their respective companies.
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Michelle Lozada, [email protected]