A new addition is coming to the FirstNet device ecosystem. As of Aug. 10, first responders can preorder the new Samsung Galaxy Note9 here . FirstNet users can also pick up the new smartphone in AT&T stores on Aug. 24. And, for a limited time, FirstNet customers can get a free Samsung Galaxy Note9, S9, or S9+ when they buy a Samsung Galaxy Note9 from AT&T.

FirstNet is a nationwide public safety communications platform dedicated to America's first responders. Being built with AT&T, in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority), FirstNet is designed to improve communications among first responders. This will help them more easily and quickly coordinate their responses during everyday situations, big events, or emergencies.

"First responder technology has lagged behind that of consumers for far too long. FirstNet is helping to close that gap," said Chris Sambar, senior vice president, AT&T – FirstNet. "The Samsung Galaxy Note9 is a good example of that. First responders on FirstNet can now take advantage of the latest in devices to tap into the power of their network, making these devices more purposeful and relevant to their mission."

FirstNet operates on a physically separate core network from commercial core networks. Purpose-built for public safety, the FirstNet core can only be accessed via a FirstNet SIM. The Galaxy Note9, now FirstNet Ready, will accept a FirstNet SIM right out of the box. And with built-in Band 14 access, the Galaxy Note9 should allow FirstNet users to enjoy even greater coverage and capacity as the nationwide Band 14 build-out progresses.

The Galaxy Note9 is the fifth Samsung device to receive the FirstNet Ready designation, following the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+, as well as the Galaxy J3 and J7, earlier this year.

To keep first responders on the front lines of smartphone technology, the Galaxy Note9 includes:

• All-day power. Stay on, stay operational. With the largest battery ever in a Note, first responders have access to a longer-lasting battery that they can count on to last the length of their mission.

• Time added. The new Galaxy Note9 features a cutting-edge modem for remarkably fast downloads and uploads, helping first responders keep seconds on the clock when they count.

• Defense-grade security. Samsung Knox is built directly into Note9's hardware to provide added security for first responders' sensitive public safety communications needs. It also means their personal and official content can coexist on the same device, and they can easily switch between them with the touch of a button.

• Field readiness. With an IP68 rating, the device is water and dust resistant. So, they can use their device more confidently when and where they need it.

Before being certified and approved for use on FirstNet, Note9 completed more than 3,500 tests. The tests assessed everything from security, durability, and voice quality, to network impacts, battery life, screen size, and resolution, to ensure it would stand up to the demands of first responders.

For a full look at the devices available on FirstNet, go to firstnet.com/devices .