in Barcelona
3 to 5 Nov 2026The French city of Istres has launched a private 5G network to improve public safety and urban operations. The project, developed in collaboration with Ericsson, Spie, and Unitel, aims to enhance emergency response through advanced video surveillance and encrypted communications.
The network supports Istres’ long-term goals of integrating AI and expanding smart city initiatives while reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Compared to traditional fibre installations, the 5G solution offers cost savings, with each camera deployment costing significantly less.
As one of the first mid-sized European cities to adopt sovereign 5G infrastructure, Istres aims to serve as a model for digital transformation in urban areas. Future plans include extending the network to support a low-carbon industrial zone in Fos-sur-Mer.
The deployment is now operational, positioning Istres as a leader in resilient and sustainable urban innovation.
