Berg Insight, the leading IoT market research provider, today released a new market study covering the GNSS-based road pricing market.

GNSS-based road pricing refers to the charging of road users using global navigation satellite system (GNSS) sensors inside vehicles. The road pricing umbrella term typically covers various types of schemes such as electronic toll collection (ETC) and road user charging (RUC) as well as vignettes and congestion charging. More than a dozen countries around the world have GNSS-based RUC/ETC systems that are in operation or about to be launched in the relative near-term. The vast majority of these can so far be found in Europe but there are also programs in operation in North America and Asia-Pacific. Berg Insight estimates that the installed base of GNSS-based on-board units deployed for road user charging reached more than 7.4 million units worldwide in 2023. Growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3 percent, the installed base is forecasted to reach almost 10.6 million units in 2028.

Berg Insight ranks Russia, Germany and Poland as the largest markets in terms of the number of GNSS-equipped vehicles for road user charging purposes.

“The Russian implementation is the largest in the world with more than 1 million on-board units in use for the Platon ETC system”, said Rickard Andersson, Principal Analyst, Berg Insight.

He adds that Germany and Poland are the runners-up with the Lkw-Maut and e-TOLL systems respectively.

“Other countries with more than half a million on-board units in use include Belgium with the Kilometer Charge, Hungary’s HU-GO and the Czech Republic’s CzechToll satellite toll system”, continued Mr. Andersson.

Bulgaria and Slovakia also have several hundred thousand on-board units deployed. The remaining top-10 markets are New Zealand and Switzerland with the eRUC and LSVA implementations respectively.

“The fragmented US market has a few operational RUC programs on state level and the country is just outside of the global top-10 so far”, concluded Mr. Andersson.

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According to a new research report from the IoT analyst firm Berg Insight, the installed base of wireless devices featuring cellular, satellite or LPWA connectivity in the oil and gas industry is forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.3 percent from 7.8 million units at the end of 2023 to 18.8 million connected devices by 2028.

Remote monitoring of assets such as industrial equipment, tanks and pipeline infrastructure in the midstream and downstream sectors comprise the most common applications for wireless industrial IoT (IIoT) solutions in the oil and gas industry. The expected growth in cellular device shipments is attributed to a higher adoption rate of sensor applications based on LTE-M and NB-IoT technologies and continued preference for cellular communications in the remote tank monitoring segment. Since many remote monitoring applications have limited requirements on bandwidth, Berg Insight is of the opinion that non-3GPP LPWA technologies such as LoRa can achieve a significant position on this market as well.

Partnerships among industrial automation vendors and technology companies continue to be a theme in the oil and gas industry while expanding in scope with oil and gas operators and software companies. Global automation vendors including ABB, Emerson, Hitachi, Honeywell, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, Siemens and Yokogawa can deliver complete solutions thanks to their extensive partner ecosystems.

In addition, the choice of preferred network topology and communications standards depends on the application area as each activity in the oil and gas value chain has its own specific need for connectivity. Many providers recognise the industry’s diverse needs by integrating different types of wireless capabilities into single box solutions. Connectivity providers such as Advantech, Cisco, HMS Networks, Moxa, MultiTech and Robustel offer modular routers and gateways where different wireless interfaces can be added to the device.

Wireless sensor solutions for remote asset monitoring are today offered with various options for communications such as LTE-M, LoRa and satellite. This suggests further convergence of wireless technologies and flexible offerings featuring hybrid solutions to serve the full range of connectivity needs in the oil and gas industry.

“Oil and gas companies are increasingly relying on data from IIoT devices to make better informed decisions”, said Veronika Barta, IoT Analyst at Berg Insight.

Today, IIoT devices can collect vast amounts of sensor data such as pressure, level, flow and temperature. As operators move towards more remote and autonomous operations, the need to collect greater volumes of data increases. The large data volumes call for edge processing capabilities to acquire data significance. In upstream applications, edge computing is used to collect and analyse real-time data from devices at drilling rigs and production wells. This enables operators to analyse data locally, reduce latency and make faster decisions to improve asset performance and reduce downtime.

Ms. Barta, concluded:

“Deployments of wireless IIoT devices with edge computing will be key to optimise assets and improve oil and gas operations.”

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ByteSnap IoT standards and protocols guide

The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionised the way we live and work. Fresh uses include smart water management, smart farming, micromobility, self-driving enablement and connected vehicles. With the proliferation of IoT devices, protocols and standards ensure that the devices function correctly and communicate smoothly with each other.

Award-winning embedded electronics design consultancy, ByteSnap, has extensive experience in designing and developing reliable and secure IoT devices that meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. With this in mind and to mark World IoT Day on 9 April, its engineers have put together a guide on IoT protocols and standards; why they matter, the most common ones and what to consider in the design process, and a handy technical glossary.

IoT protocols and standards; an overview

IoT protocols are guidelines, or a set of rules and standards on how devices should work, communicate and exchange data within an IoT network. They define device connectivity, interoperability, security, and privacy within IoT systems. In the context of the IoT the protocols take into account the unique requirements of IoT devices, including limited processing power, memory and energy. IoT protocols are designed to provide reliable and efficient comms between devices, minimise bandwidth use and keep power consumption low.

IoT standards, meanwhile, define the requirements for IoT devices and systems. They can cover a wide range of topics, such as security, interoperability, and data formats. IoT standards are constructed and maintained by organisations and bodies that specialise in setting technical guidelines, frameworks and best practices for IoT. Prominent organisations include the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC); Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE); Industrial Internet Consortium (IIC); Open Connectivity Foundation (OCF); Thread Group; Connectivity Standards Alliance.

Among key international standards are ISO/IEC 30141:2018; ISO/IEC 27030:2020 and ISO/IEC 21823-3:2021.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are examples of commercial IoT standards and protocols that are widely used. The commercial IoT industry is still growing, with more protocols and standards emerging to meet the demand for streamlined, user-friendly devices in the consumer electronics market.

Choosing the right IoT product design standards and protocols for your project

Common IoT communication protocols include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRaWAN, and MQTT; while common IoT security standards include Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Matter and Transport Layer Security (TLS).

Choosing the right IoT protocol or standard for a project will depend on several factors within a spec – such as the type of device, the data transfer rate, power consumption, and range requirements.

Device type: the type of device deployed plays a significant role in determining the suitable IoT protocol. If you’re working with small, low-power devices like sensors or wearables, a lightweight protocol such as MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) may be preferable as it is efficient at transmitting small packets of data over constrained networks. For complex devices, including industrial equipment or smart appliances, that require robust communication capabilities, protocols like CoAP (Constrained Application Protocol) or HTTP might be better, offering features like request-response communication and support for larger payloads.

Data transfer rates: these vary depending on the application’s needs. Projects involving real-time monitoring or control, such as smart home automation or industrial process optimisation, protocols like MQTT or CoAP are suited, because they enable low-latency communication and efficient data transmission. Applications that involve periodic data collection or infrequent updates, such as environmental monitoring or asset tracking, may see benefits using LoRaWAN or Sigfox, which prioritise long-range communication and low power consumption over high data rates.

Power consumption: is a critical consideration, particularly for battery-powered IoT devices where energy efficiency directly impacts device lifespan and maintenance costs. Lightweight protocols like MQTT and CoAP are designed to minimise power consumption by reducing the overhead associated with message formatting and transmission. Conversely, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Zigbee implement power-saving mechanisms like low-duty cycling and sleep modes to prolong battery life in devices such as wearables and smart sensors.

Range requirements: The range over which IoT devices need to communicate varies depending on the deployment environment and application scenario. For projects that require local area coverage within a confined space, protocols like BLE or Zigbee offer short-range communication suitable for home automation, smart buildings, and indoor asset tracking. Alternatively, for applications spanning larger geographical areas or outdoor environments, protocols like LoRaWAN or NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) provide long-range connectivity capable of reaching distances of several kilometres, making them ideal for applications such as agriculture monitoring, smart city infrastructure, and remote environmental sensing.

Why standards are key to IoT product design success

IoT product design standards are significant for electronics product designers and manufacturers for several reasons. Chiefly, they ensure interoperability between devices from different manufacturers. By adhering to a common standard, devices can communicate with each other seamlessly, reducing the need for proprietary communication protocols or gateways.

IoT product design standards also help to:

1. Ensure the security and privacy of data transmitted between devices. Standards such as the Matter standard include several security features such as encryption, authentication, and device identity. This helps to ensure that data transmitted between devices is secure and private, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.

2. Guarantee the reliability and scalability of IoT devices. Standards such as Zigbee or Bluetooth Mesh are designed to handle large-scale deployments of IoT devices, allowing them to communicate with each other efficiently and effectively.

3. Reduce costs for electronics product designers and manufacturers. By adhering to a common standard, manufacturers can reduce the need for custom development and testing, reducing costs and time-to-market for new products.

4. Drive innovation in the IoT industry. By providing a common framework for communication between devices, designers and manufacturers can focus on developing new and innovative products and services, rather than developing custom communication protocols.

The success of an IoT project hinges not only on its core concept but also on various supporting factors like hardware, software, and infrastructure. Thus, taking a holistic approach to designing an IoT system becomes paramount, considering every aspect that contributes to its launch and use.

In the realm of IoT, the choice of product design standards and protocols holds immense significance. These standards serve as a universal language for IoT devices, facilitating seamless communication between them. Moreover, adherence to these standards ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and industry norms, reduces costs and improves efficiency, all pivotal steps in bringing IoT products to market fruition.

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Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. today unveiled its groundbreaking Type 2GT module, a multi-band, low-power radio (LoRa®) module which marks a significant leap forward in the development of IoT devices requiring versatile wireless connectivity.

This highly integrated module stands out by offering a comprehensive solution that caters to the complex demands of global certification standards, facilitating seamless deployment in diverse regions and industries.

The Type 2GT module is 9.98 x 8.70 x 1.74mm and is built on a PCB housed in a metal case and packaged as a land grid array. The module’s technical prowess is highlighted by its use of Semtech’s advanced LR1121 RF transceiver IC, a thermally compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO), a second 32KHz crystal, an RF switch, and an RF matching network. These components ensure maximum frequency accuracy and reliable performance under varying environmental conditions. For end-device designers, this translates to simpler and small sized PCB designs, reduced time to market, and lower development costs, thanks to the module’s ease of integration and streamlined certification process.

The Type 2GT’s support for multiple frequency bands—including sub-GHz bands, the 2.4GHz ISM band, and the 2.1GHz satellite communications S-band—underscores flexibility and scalability, meeting the needs of various IoT applications such as smart agriculture, Industrial and environmental sensing, building and home automation. Other markets which could benefit from the module’s features include asset tracking, utilities metering, remote-controlled toys and drones. Support for the 2.4GHz ISM band enables higher data rates, common channel plan across the globe and also allows designers to avoid the duty-cycle limitations imposed on sub-GHz communications by European standards.

“We are thrilled to witness Murata’s strategic expansion with their cutting-edge, third-generation multi-band LoRa® modules”, said Carlo Tinella, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Semtech.

“This advancement provides the industry with a pivotal tool to streamline and secure the development process for applications operating across sub-GHz and 2.4GHz LoRa® frequencies. Murata’s commitment to reducing design complexity and certification challenges empowers developers worldwide, enabling swift and versatile IoT solutions for everything from smart agriculture to urban infrastructure.”

Murata’s Type 2GT module is certified to European CE and American FCC standards, the Japanese TELEC standard, and the Canadian IC standard enabling designers to reuse module RF test reports across different certification authorities. This will significantly lower compliance barriers, fostering innovation across the IoT ecosystem to serve users in multiple geographies.

We invite developers, partners, and innovators to explore the potential of the Type 2GT module. Together, we can harness the power of LoRa® technology to create IoT solutions that are not only smart and efficient but also accessible and sustainable. Murata is dedicated to collaborating with our partners to push the boundaries of what’s possible, making the world more connected, intelligent, and environmentally conscious.

Samples are available now with mass production scheduled to begin at the end of March 2024.

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IoT Analytics released a research article that highlights 10 out of 41 telecom industry trends included in the Mobile World Congress (MWC) conference report.

This report presents a comprehensive summary of the key highlights and trends assembled by the IoT Analytics analyst team and discusses more than 130 companies.

Key insights:

The current state of telecommunications was on full display at MWC Barcelona 2024.
IoT Analytics’ three-analyst team produced a 123-page event report, covering 130+ companies, and presents its top 10 trends on the state of IoT & telecommunications here.

Key quotes:

Knud Lasse Lueth, CEO at IoT Analytics, remarks “Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2024 brought to light the ongoing evolution within the IoT and telecom sectors. AI showcases took center stage this year. 5G advances, the anticipation around 6G and a pronounced focus on sustainability was also visible. Our team put together an in-depth 123-page event report, covering major developments from more than 130 companies that presented or exhibited at the fair.”

Satyajit Sinha, Principal Analyst at IoT Analytics, adds that:

“Leveraging eSIM and eUICCs as a hardware-based root of trust represents an innovative step in enhancing IoT security. Securing hardware forms the foundational layer for chip-to-cloud security. As we approach the era of quantum computing, focusing on quantum-resistant solutions and cryptographic agility will serve as a proactive defense against new cyber threats.”

Mobile World Congress 2023

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2024, which took place from February 26 to February 29, is the telecommunication (telecom) industry’s main event showcasing the latest technologies and solutions, such as 5G, edge computing, and AI.

The MWC saw a significant increase in attendance in 2024, with a rise of 14% compared to the previous year. The event drew in 101,000 attendees. It hosted 2,700 exhibitors—a testament to the industry’s resilience and the undiminished allure of cutting-edge mobile technologies.

However, attendance was still 7% lower than at MWC Barcelona 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the number of exhibitors increased by 12% from the pre-COVID era, reaching a new five-year record high.

“MWC Barcelona embodies the energy and vibrancy of the mobile ecosystem. We are honored to host this special event, which, once again, has delivered an exceptional four days of debate, thought leadership, inspiration, and deal-making.” – John Hoffman, CEO, GSMA Ltd.

IoT Analytics had a team of 3 analysts on the ground during the event’s four days. The team visited approximately 60+ booths and conducted more than 50 in-person interviews to comprehensively understand the most recent developments. Nearly every meeting started with, “What’s new in MWC, apart from AI?”

That said, AI was a common theme among the numerous new products and projects showcased at MWC 2024, from network operations management down to the chipsets themselves. However, AI was not a part of every notable advancement.

Our research clients can refer to the full 123-page MWC Barcelona 2024 Event Report to read more about the myriad of new technologies, trends, announcements, and insightful quotes from key telecom industry players. This article only highlights some of the major trends.

10 IoT and telco trends observed at MWC 2024

The full report shares 41 telecom industry trends the IoT Analytics team observed, including AI integration, telecom and satellite convergence, security, and sustainability. Here, we will highlight 10 trends that showcase the future of telco IoT connectivity, with a summary of each.

1. AI integration is enabling smarter, more efficient networks

The telecom industry spotlighted the integration of AI into telecom networks, particularly Radio Access Networks (RAN), emphasizing the shift towards more intelligent and automated network operations. Propelling this trend is the need for cost reductions, enhanced user experiences, and the mitigation of skill shortages.

AI’s role in telecom networks now includes smart monitoring, efficient analysis, and improved anomaly detection—offering solutions to the growing complexity of networks and cybersecurity threats. Companies are focusing on user-friendly AI tools that are accessible to developers with varying levels of expertise in AI/ML, thereby addressing the pressing need for innovation in network management and security.

Sweden-based multinational telecommunications company (telco) Ericsson introduced the Telecom AI concept, emphasizing zero-touch operations, trustworthy AI, and AI’s integration into networks. This initiative underscores the industry’s move towards automation, with AI enabling networks to adapt to user demands dynamically. This fosters a more responsive and adaptive telecom infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Japan-based mobile network operator Rakuten Mobile partnered with OpenAI, the US-based developer of ChatGPT, to develop AI tools for the telecom industry. This partnership aims to deploy AI solutions to open RAN’s architecture to enhance customer service and network optimization.

2. Cellular network technologies are enhancing performance and services

At MWC 2024, the integration of standalone 5G (SA 5G) with network slicing, the commercialization of 5G-Advanced (5G-A), and AI’s foundational role in the impending 6G networks highlight an evolution in telecoms. Collectively, these developments enhance network performance, efficiency, and the capacity to support a myriad of new applications and services.

Network slicing, a significant innovation driven by SA 5G deployments, allows customized network segments catering to diverse needs, optimizing resources, and bolstering security. It facilitates novel business models by offering personalized network experiences underpinned by technologies like Open RAN Intelligent Controllers (RICs) and machine learning.

Regarding SA 5G with network slicing, Finland-based telecom and IT company Nokia demonstrated multi-access edge slicing in partnership with e& UAE, a UAE state-owned telco, over a live mobile network. Multi-access network slicing allows e& UAE to offer new premium slicing services across 4G/5G, fixed wireless access, and fixed access that can support several use cases and applications simultaneously. Further, US-based semiconductor company Qualcomm showcased AI-driven 5G RAN network slicing capabilities within its Edgewise Suite.

Meanwhile, regarding 5G-A, China-based telecom equipment and services provider Huawei announced at MWC 2024 the world’s first 5.5G intelligent core network, which offers a tenfold speed increase over the initial 5G speeds.

Finally, regarding AI integration into future 6G networks, South Korea-based telecommunications operator SK Telecom shared a proof-of-concept video demonstration of a collaborative AI integration effort between it, Japan-based telco NTT, NTT’s telecom-provider subsidiary DOCOMO, and Nokia. The demonstration was for this team’s implementation of AI in the 6G air interface, which aims to enhance performance while minimizing energy consumption.

3. GenAI is revolutionizing customer interactions and network management

The IoT Analytics team noted 20 generative AI (GenAI) showcases at MWC Barcelona 2024, highlighting a significant shift toward leveraging GenAI to enhance customer interactions and improve network operations. Telcos showcased various GenAI-powered solutions across different stages of development, with most aiming to provide real-time, efficient customer service and network troubleshooting.

Of the 20 identified GenAI showcases, 10 were customer interaction and support use cases, making it the largest use case. Only 5 of the 20 showcases have been rolled out across the respective organizations or to customers—most others are either being piloted or their status is otherwise not known.

UK-based multinational telecom company Vodafone showcased its updated TOBi chatbot supported by Microsoft Azure’s OpenAI Service. TOBi has managed various customer interactions, including billing journeys, offers, and appointment booking, for Vodafone for years, but with GenAI integration, it can handle natural language well and personalize customer experiences. Meanwhile, Qualcomm presented its Edgewise Suite, a GenAI-powered RAN network management consultant system designed to simplify network and slice management tasks for RAN engineers. Its solution features impact assessment modeling, network topology, network performance tracking, gateway provisioning, and knowledgebases (including external data sources).

4. Semiconductor and AI advancements redefine the future of vRAN

The evolution of virtual RANs (vRANs) is at the forefront of mobile network development and is greatly influenced by semiconductor innovations and AI integration. Semiconductor companies are pivotal in this transformation, offering specialized processors and chipsets that boost vRAN performance, which can provide a cost-efficient, adaptable, and advanced architecture.

Meanwhile, AI’s inclusion within vRAN accelerator cards revolutionizes network efficiency, flexibility, and intelligence. AI algorithms run on specialized hardware such as CPUs, GPUs, and vRAN accelerator cards to optimize 5G networks.

Collaboration between leading telecoms is facilitating these advancements. At MWC 2024, Nokia and US-based semiconductor company NVIDIA unveiled a partnership integrating Nokia’s RAN software and layer 1 acceleration with NVIDIA’s CPUs for layer 2 processing and its GPUs for AI and vRAN acceleration. This collaboration marks a significant milestone towards AI-driven RAN solutions (AI-RAN)

US-based semiconductor company Intel announced the upcoming launch of its Xeon Granite Rapids-D processors, designed specifically for vRAN workloads. These processors will be equipped with high-performance, next-generation P cores and enhanced with Intel vRAN Boost acceleration.

5. AI integration into connectivity and chipset technologies

The previous trends highlight AI integration into telecom infrastructure, with advanced modules and chipsets to help accelerate AI. However, the technology industry is experiencing a transformative phase with AI integration into modules and chipsets themselves.

Telecom vendors are now embedding AI directly within connectivity modules and 5G chipsets, aiming to revolutionize how devices process data, manage network traffic, and optimize performance.

At MWC 2024, several companies showcased their latest module and chipset innovations with AI integration. For instance, Cina-based cellular module provider MeiG presented a comprehensive product line of AI modules—the SNM930 and SNM970—which boast AI computing power up to 48Tops and support high-end applications such as service robots.

Similarly, China-based cellular module providers SIMCom and Fibocom showcased their AI integrations. SIMCom introduced the SIM9650L Wi-Fi 6E module, featuring an 8-core processor and AI capabilities exceeding 14 Tops. This module is suitable for devices like intelligent point-of-sale systems and VR/AR devices. Meanwhile, Fibocom highlighted their SC208 module, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 460 platform and capable of efficiently handling complex tasks like 1080P video transmission and multi-camera inputs.

6. 5G RedCap chipsets, modules, and devices are advancing

Speaking of chipsets in general, several manufacturers unveiled new 3GPP Release 17-compliant 5G RedCap chipsets at MWC 2024. These chipsets emphasize enhanced power efficiency, lower development costs, and support for various applications.

Module manufacturers appear to be seizing the 5G RedCap opportunity by developing pre-tested modules that facilitate quicker and more reliable device development. These modules, often equipped with advanced power-saving features and high data throughput capabilities, are fostering the deployment of new devices and gateways across various industries.

For example, China-based IoT module manufacturer Lierda showcased its TE310 5G RedCap Industrial Gateway, equipped with a 5G RedCap NR90-HCN module, Gigabit Ethernet port, and Wi-Fi6 technology. Meanwhile, US-based private network solutions provider MosoLabs presented its Moso Connect 5G mobile adapter, which allows legacy machines with serial or ethernet connectivity to communicate over a private 5G network. Additionally, Ericsson demonstrated video surveillance capabilities using 5G AIoT cameras integrated with 5G RedCap modules.

Devices like these underscore 5G RedCap’s versatility and potential to enhance connectivity and reliability for various applications.

7. Cellular and satellite ecosystem convergence enhances IoT connectivity

The integration of satellite connectivity into cellular networks is revolutionizing global IoT deployment. Underscoring this trend is the proliferation of 3GPP non-terrestrial network (NTN) capabilities in chipsets and modules and the telcos’ embrace of satellite connectivity for ubiquitous IoT coverage.

At MWC 2024, the IoT Analytics team noted several collaborations and certifications highlighting this convergence. Examples on the telco front are Deutsche Telekom, a German telecom provider, launching IoT tariffs with geostationary satellite providers, and US-based non-geostationary satellite infrastructure provider Omnispace collaborating with MTN, a South African multinational telecom provider, to enhance 5G connectivity through low-Earth orbit satellites.

On the satellite front, in July 2023, US-based NTN service provider Skylo Technologies partnered with Keysight Technologies, Inc., a US-based electronics testing and measurement equipment manufacturer, to expand cellular testing to NTNs via a certification program for NB-IoT devices over satellite. At MWC 2024, Skylo announced that Keysight extended the number of available test cases to 145 in the Keysight RF/RRM Carrier Acceptance Toolset, which enables certification of 3GPP 5G Rel-17 NTN chipsets, modules, and devices for Skylo’s network.

Such advancements aim to enhance performance, reliability, and coverage, especially in remote areas where traditional connectivity is limited.

8. eSIM adoption for IoT and automotive on the rise

The global landscape of eSIM technology is witnessing transformative shifts, notably with China’s recent embrace of eSIM technology, advancements in pre-standard development for GSMA SGP.31/32 compliance, and the increasing implementation of eSIM/iSIM in IoT devices and vehicles.

After years of hesitation, China is now moving towards eSIM adoption. At MWC 2024, the IoT Analytics team observed strategic partnerships between major telecommunication entities, such as Chinese state-owned telecom operator China Unicom and eSIM technology providers Thales and Giesecke+Devrient.

“A sophisticated eSIM solution for China Unicom will help it reach a greater degree of security and reliability in its business development and user services in the 5G future.” – Eva Rudin, Vice President of Mobile Connectivity Solutions, Thales

On the regulatory and standards front, the introduction of GSMA’s new eSIM IoT specifications, SGP.31 and SGP.32, has prompted eSIM management companies to develop pre-standard solutions compatible with these requirements. IoT device manufacturing companies like Thales, Kigen, Webbing, and Redtea Mobile showcased advanced solutions that address the transition and coexistence of M2M and IoT eSIM standards, thereby facilitating the IoT ecosystem’s growth.

Moreover, the adoption of eSIM/iSIM technology in IoT devices and vehicles is gaining momentum, offering enhanced connectivity, flexibility, and scalability across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and automotive. Initiatives like the Saga Card by Iceland-based pharmaceutical supply chain automation enabler Controlant and Deutsche Telekom, or German automotive company BMW‘s partnership with NTT Data for personal eSIM activation, underscore the vital role of eSIM/iSIM in enabling global connectivity and seamless network management for IoT solutions and connected vehicles.

9. On-device AI to quantum-resistant technologies enhance cybersecurity

In September 2023, IoT Analytics noted that 66% of cellular IoT modules shipped without dedicated hardware security. Fortunately, it seems the cybersecurity landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by advancements in AI, enhanced IoT security through embedded universal integrated circuit card (eUICC) technology, and the development of quantum-resistant cryptography.

Integrating AI into cybersecurity solutions enables dynamic threat detection, prevention, and response. Traditional methods fall short in identifying novel cyber threats, but AI’s adaptability and learning capabilities ensure robust defense mechanisms. At MWC 2024, Israel-based endpoint security solutions provider Bufferzone highlighted this evolution by upgrading its endpoint security solutions to include AI-based security powered by Intel Core Ultra processors.

Further, eUICC helps fortify IoT device security by establishing a hardware-based root of trust. This approach allows for the local generation of cryptographic keys, leverages IoT-SAFE protocols, and enhances the security framework of IoT applications.

Notably, at MWC 2024, Ireland-based global IoT connectivity provider ZARIOT and UK-based IoT security solutions provider Crypto Quantique unveiled their collaboration to bolster IoT device security. Their solution integrates ZARIOT’s hardware root of trust SIM cards and Crypto Quantique‘s QuarkLink IoT device security platform to enhance secure provisioning, onboarding, and device lifecycle management.

10. Telcos and manufacturers strive for sustainability

Some of the above trends highlight energy efficiency as a driver or outcome of the respective advancements. IoT Analytics recently noted that discussions around sustainability and energy efficiency trended upward in Q1 2024 corporate earnings calls, and that trend appeared on showcase at MWC 2024.

Specifically, companies appear to be focusing on passive sustainability through 5G RAN energy optimization. Currently, RAN consumes approximately 70% of a 5G network’s total energy. As networks expand and data demand grows, the energy consumption of radio units and other RAN components escalates, negatively impacting not only operational costs but also environmental sustainability.

Based on observations at MWC 2024, vendors are focusing on passive sustainability efforts such as energy management in RAN. Key strategies include the following:

Fronthaul control, cell admin state management, and energy-saving modes, all focusing on optimizing the power usage of radio units
Enhanced power management states for servers and telemetry use, improving energy efficiency by monitoring and adjusting power usage in real time
Deployment of RAN intelligent controllers, which use policy-based management and AI/ML techniques to enable intelligent energy management, including dynamically adapting network operations to current needs without compromising service quality

For example, Nokia showcased a new “extreme deep sleep” mode designed to reduce energy consumption. This feature uses Nokia’s AirScale radio architecture and its Reefshark system-on-chip chipsets and works by shutting down radio equipment during no-traffic periods, aiming for what Nokia calls “zero traffic, zero Watt.”

Additionally, VMware, a US-based cloud computing and virtualization technology company, presented its Network Efficiency framework, which was developed with Intel and Equinix, a US-based digital infrastructure company. The framework consists of two parts: a tool for analyzing energy usage and a tool to help discover cost savings. The former includes “green window”-based workload placement that simulates the impact of running some workloads during peak hours with lower energy costs.

“One of the main drivers for integration cost efficient energy saving features is ongoing global recession. Another driver is state policy with focus on ESG strict regulations and commitments of the companies to reach net zero in the next 10–15 years.” – Solution Architect at VMware

What these telco IoT trends mean for the future of connectivity

From AI integration across the network-to-device spectrum to enhanced security and sustainability, the telecom trends observed at MWC Barcelona 2024—presented above and in the MWC Barcelona 2024 Event Report—are going to have a significant impact on IoT connectivity and the telecom industry as a whole. As more and more mobile and IoT devices come online, being able to provision them and ensure data security will be important for the continued growth of the IoT market. However, most of the projects supporting these trends were either announced or demonstrated at MWC 2024 or are currently being piloted—it may take 2 or 3 years before we see mass commercialization or impact of these projects. That said, these trends suggest a future of interconnected, intelligent, and sustainable telecom ecosystems catering to evolving consumer demands and technological advancements.

The post Top 10 IoT & telco trends – as seen at MWC 2024 appeared first on IoT Business News.

Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, has made further additions to its comprehensive range of antennas for IoT devices and deployments.

The latest launches include the YEMN016AA and YEMN017AA 5G 5-in-1 combination antennas, the YECN001J1A and YECT000WBA external 5G antennas and the YEGB000Q1A and YEGN000Q1A active GNSS L1 and L5 antennas.

Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions, said:

“We are thrilled to expand our product line with antennas that offer superior performance and meet the unique needs of our IoT customers.”

“Quectel consistently enhances its diverse portfolio to precisely address the unique requirements of our clients’ deployments and applications, offering unparalleled performance and adaptability, and these antennas add to that portfolio.”

The YEMN016AA is a 5G and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) 5-in-1 antenna measuring 204.4mm x 86.7mm x 32mm. This ultra-wide-band 5G/4G antenna provides broad coverage from 600–6,000MHz whilst offering backward-compatibility to support 3G and 2G networks as well as LTE Cat-M and narrowband IoT (NB-IoT). The antenna is available with connection via five cable lengths from 300–5,000 mm, terminated with SMA connectors. This low profile, screw mount omnidirectional antenna, ideal for applications where the antenna is required to be discrete, is easy to install with maximum durability assured thanks to its IP69K PC KIBILAC® ASA enclosure. It is compatible with Quectel’s RM520x Series modules.

The Quectel YEMN017AA is a 5G screw mount 5-in-1 antenna puck optimized for 5G and 4G networks. With a diameter of 103.5mm and height of 42.5mm, the antenna can integrate a variety of antennas, such as 5G, 4G, GNSS and Wi-Fi antennas. Available with multiple mounting options including screw, pole, wall, magnetic, adhesive and others, the antenna box supports multiple connector types and cable lengths and is designed to offer a more flexible and reliable high-performance antenna for outdoor applications.

Quectel has also added the YECN001J1A and YECT000WBA external 5G antennas to its portfolio. Both antennas cover the 5G NR Sub-6 GHz frequency bands and are compatible with 4G, 3G, 2G and LPWA bands. Featuring high efficiency and gain, both offer an ideal omni-directional antenna solution to ensure high-speed data transmission. Ideal for a diversity of wireless communication devices such as routers, outdoor equipment and real-time monitoring equipment, the antennas feature a diameter of 40.6mm and height of 104mm. The antennas are both RoHS and REACH compliant and Quectel offers flexible installation with custom cable length and connector options.

For users prioritizing GNSS, Quectel has introduced the YEGB000Q1A and YEGN000Q1A active GNSS L1 and L5 antennas. Operating in the 1164-1189MHz and 1559-1606MHz frequency bands these antennas measure 62mm x 56mm x 23mm. The antennas support different installation or connection methods such as screw mount, adhesive mount, magnetic mount, internal cable, and external SMA. Customized connector types and cable lengths are provided according to requirements.

In common with all Quectel antennas, Quectel provides comprehensive antenna design support such as simulation, testing and manufacturing for custom antenna solutions to meet customers’ specific application needs. In addition, Quectel antennas can be pre-integrated with Quectel’s vast range of modules.

The post Quectel Unveils a Series of New High Performing 5G, GNSS and 5-in-1 Combo Antennas appeared first on IoT Business News.

Semtech Corporation, a high-performance semiconductor, IoT systems, and connectivity service provider, today announced the integration of Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) support into its HL series LPWA modules, specifically the HL7810 and HL7812.

This significant advancement showcases a major leap forward in enabling uninterrupted global connectivity even amidst the most challenging conditions.

Connectivity is crucial for ensuring safety and driving business success. Semtech’s LPWA HL78 modules, now upgraded with NTN support via a straightforward software update, enable devices to maintain dependable global connectivity through satellite networks, supporting continuous connection even in the most isolated regions.

Semtech has partnered with Skylo, a pioneer in offering satellite over cellular services, to integrate NTN capabilities into its HL series modules. As a result of this collaboration, Semtech’s upcoming software update, slated for commercial release in Q2 and pending testing and certification on Skylo’s network, will provide access to Skylo’s expansive network. This strategic partnership is a testament to Semtech’s commitment to enhancing global connectivity options, enabling devices equipped with HL78 modules to maintain reliable communication links, even in the most remote areas.

Providing customers with the option to connect using NB-IoT over a satellite network when traditional terrestrial coverage fails, not only enhances the reliability of global communication but also greatly minimizes waste and loss. This is especially crucial for sectors like shipping and emergency management. The ability to maintain continuous coverage, particularly in applications like container tracking, addresses the challenges posed by the limitations of conventional cellular networks, marking a significant advancement in enabling consistent connectivity.

Michael Buonassisi, Director Product Management LPWA modules at Semtech, stated:

“By incorporating NTN support into our HL78 modules via a straightforward software update, we are enhancing the capabilities of our existing products, providing our customers with a substantial competitive edge.”

“This initiative demonstrates our dedication to innovation and our proactive approach to addressing the market’s evolving needs.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Semtech to bring the power of Non-Terrestrial Networks to the HL series modules. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our mission to bridge the connectivity gap, providing reliable, global communication solutions that meet the needs of today’s digital world. Together with Semtech, we are setting a new standard for connectivity, ensuring that no device is left unconnected, no matter where it is located on the globe,” said Dr. Andrew Nuttal, CTO and Co-Founder of Skylo.

In addition to supporting satellite, the highly versatile HL78 modules can also support terrestrial LPWA networks using Cat-M and NB-IoT. By pairing with AirVantage® Smart Connectivity, customers can take advantage of one global SIM as well as a single point of access to both device and SIM lifecycle management. This compatibility underscores Semtech’s commitment to providing comprehensive connectivity solutions, from device to cloud, that cater to a wide range of customer needs.

“As the communication industry evolves towards more integrated and versatile solutions, Semtech continues to lead the way, driving innovation and delivering technologies that connect the world,” added Nicolas Damour, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships at Semtech.

The post Semtech Elevates Global IoT Connectivity with HL78 Modules Enhanced by NTN Capabilities appeared first on IoT Business News.