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Vodafone and Microsoft to transform the customer experience using Microsoft’s generative AI
Vodafone to scale its new standalone IoT business with Microsoft
Partnership will expand M-Pesa to improve financial inclusion across Africa
Vodafone to grow enterprise business with new Microsoft services for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs)
Vodafone to accelerate digital transformation and operational efficiencies in virtual data center migration to Microsoft Azure

Vodafone and Microsoft Corp. on Tuesday announced a new, far-reaching 10-year strategic partnership that leverages their respective strengths in offering scaled digital platforms to more than 300 million businesses, public sector organizations, and consumers across Europe and Africa.

Through the partnership, the companies will collaborate to transform Vodafone’s customer experience using Microsoft’s generative AI; hyperscale Vodafone’s leading managed IoT connectivity platform; develop new digital and financial services for businesses, particularly SMEs across Europe and Africa; and overhaul its global data center cloud strategy.

Vodafone will invest $1.5 billion over the next 10 years in cloud and customer-focused AI services developed in conjunction with Microsoft. Additionally, Microsoft will use Vodafone’s fixed and mobile connectivity services.

Microsoft also intends to invest in Vodafone’s managed IoT connectivity platform, which will become a separate, standalone business by April 2024. The new company will attract new partners and customers, driving growth in applications and expanding the platform to connect more devices, vehicles and machines.

The digital services generated by the new partnership will use the latest generative AI technology to provide a highly personalized and differentiated customer experience across multiple channels. They will be built on unbiased and ethical privacy and security policies under Vodafone’s established framework for responsible AI.

Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group chief executive, said: “Today, Vodafone has made a bold commitment to the digital future of Europe and Africa. This unique strategic partnership with Microsoft will accelerate the digital transformation of our business customers, particularly small and medium-sized companies, and step up the quality of customer experience for consumers.”

“This new generation of AI will unlock massive new opportunities for every organization and every industry around the world,” said Satya Nadella, chairman and CEO, Microsoft. “We are delighted that together with Vodafone we will apply the latest cloud and AI technology to enhance the customer experience of hundreds of millions of people and businesses across Africa and Europe, build new products and services, and accelerate the company’s transition to the cloud.”

The companies have identified five key areas of collaboration:

Generative AI: To increase customer satisfaction, the companies will apply the power of Microsoft Azure OpenAI to deliver frictionless, real-time, proactive and hyperpersonalized experiences across all Vodafone customer touchpoints, including its digital assistant TOBi (available in 13 countries). Vodafone employees will also be able to leverage the AI capabilities of Microsoft Copilot to transform working practices, boost productivity and improve digital efficiency.

Scaling IoT: Microsoft intends to invest in Vodafone’s new, standalone global Internet of Things (IoT)-managed connectivity platform, which connects 175 million devices and platforms worldwide. Vodafone also plans to become part of the Azure ecosystem making the IoT platform available to a vast developer and third-party community using open APIs.

Africa digital acceleration: Microsoft intends to help further scale M-Pesa, already the largest financial technology platform in Africa, by housing it on Azure and enabling the launch of new cloud-native applications. The companies are also launching a purpose-led program that seeks to enrich the lives of 100 million consumers and 1 million SMEs across the African continent. The goal is to enhance digital literacy, skilling and youth outreach programs, as well as offer digital services to the underserved SME market. The partnership aims to boost financial services innovation, building a community of certified developers.

Enterprise growth: Vodafone will extend its commitment to distributing Microsoft services, including Microsoft Azure, security solutions and modern work offerings such as Microsoft Teams Phone Mobile, as part of its strategy to become Europe’s leading platform for business. This enables business customers to deploy Microsoft’s cloud-based services at pace with low adoption and running costs, as well as support the estimated 24 million SMEs across Europe through the provision of a managed platform that grows with their business.

Cloud transformation: Vodafone will accelerate its cloud transformation by modernizing its data centers on Microsoft Azure. This will improve its responsiveness to customers, while simplifying and reducing the operational costs of its IT estate. As a result, Vodafone will be able to replace multiple physical data centers with virtual ones across Europe, simplifying and reducing the operational costs of its IT estate, as well as reducing energy requirements and helping deliver against its sustainable business strategy.

The post Vodafone and Microsoft sign 10-year strategic partnership to bring generative AI, digital services and the cloud to more than 300 million businesses and consumers appeared first on IoT Business News.

CES – Quectel Wireless Solutions, today launches the Quectel FGE576Q and FGE573Q Wi-Fi 7 modules, the first in portfolio of Wi-Fi 7 modules due to be launched over the coming three months, pushing the boundaries of wireless connectivity and empowering the next generation of IoT and mobile devices.

The FGE576Q and FGE573Q represent a significant leap forward in Wi-Fi technology, harnessing the power of the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard to provide faster speeds, increased capacity, and improved efficiency. These modules are designed to meet the growing demands of diverse applications, from smart homes and industrial automation to healthcare and transportation.

“Our commitment to innovation has driven us to develop the Quectel FGE576Q and FGE573Q Wi-Fi 7 modules, addressing the evolving needs of the IoT ecosystem,” commented Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions.

“These modules not only set a new standard for wireless shortrange connectivity but also open up new possibilities for a variety of industries.”

Wi-Fi 7 represents pivotal advancements in wireless communication technology, ushering in a new era of connectivity marked by unprecedented speed, reliability, and efficiency. The significance of Wi-Fi 7 lies in its ability to deliver dramatically higher data rates, enabling faster and more seamless transmission of large volumes of data. With lower latency and improved network reliability, Wi-Fi 7 enhances the user experience across a spectrum of applications, ranging from ultra-high-definition streaming and online gaming to emerging technologies like augmented and virtual reality.

The FGE576Q boasts an impressive data rate of up to 3.6Gbps, while the FGE573Q supports up to 2.9Gbps. Operating on dual bands simultaneously—2.4GHz + 5GHz and 2.4GHz + 6GHz— the FGE576Q offers ultra-low latency, ensuring real-time responsiveness.

In addition to dual Bluetooth integration, both modules support LE audio and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), featuring a maximum data rate of 2 Mbps and BLE Long Range capabilities. A standout feature, Multi-Link Operation (MLO), empowers routers to utilize multiple wireless bands and channels concurrently when connecting to a Wi-Fi 7 client. The inclusion of MLO in the FGE576Q and FGE573Q not only supports faster data rates but also significantly reduces latency and enhances network reliability.

The modules’ impressive data rates, minimal latency, and heightened network reliability position the FGE576Q and FGE573Q as ideal solutions for various applications, including cloud gaming, 8K A/V streaming, AR/VR, industrial IoT, and telemedicine.

Recognizing the paramount importance of security, these modules incorporate state-of-the-art features such as WPA3 encryption, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data transmissions. Furthermore, the compact design of the Quectel FGE576Q and FGE573Q modules facilitates seamless integration into a diverse array of devices, empowering manufacturers to create sleek and efficient products.

The post Quectel unveils Wi-Fi 7 modules for next-generation connectivity appeared first on IoT Business News.

CES – Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, today announces the launch of the KG200Z module, a state-of-the-art Long Range (LoRa®) technology module designed to cater to the specific needs of IoT projects demanding dependable, ultra-low power, and cost-effective, long range wireless communication.

This innovative solution offers a powerful and efficient tool for businesses and developers seeking to enhance their projects with robust wireless capabilities.

The module delivers seamless and robust connectivity for IoT devices, boasting an impressive transmission distance of 2-5 kilometers in urban settings and 10-15 kilometers in suburban areas. With a steadfast network connection, robust anti-interference capabilities, potent penetration, and dependable data transmission, this module stands as a reliable solution for businesses seeking advanced IoT connectivity.

“In an era where connectivity is the backbone of digital transformation, our innovative module will empower businesses to unlock new possibilities and drive efficiency in their IoT ecosystems,” said Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions.

“The KG200Z LoRa module stands at the forefront of innovation, offering unparalleled performance, range, and reliability.”

The KG200Z is a cost-effective LoRa module, based on the STMicroelectronics® STM32WLEx series microcontrollers, the world first LoRa System-On-Chip platform, and designed for ultra-low power consumption and compatibility with the LoRaWAN protocol. Equipped with a built-in power management unit, power amplifier, low noise amplifier, and RF transceiver switch, the module integrates an ARM® Cortex®-M4 core with the modulations of LoRa, (G)FSK, (G)MSK and BPSK, supporting the LoRaWAN standard protocol across a wide spectrum, including the 470–510 MHz and 862–928 MHz LoRa frequency bands.

The module also boasts a range connectivity options with multiple interfaces, including UART, SPI, I2C, and SWD, catering to a wide range of applications. With an ultra-low power consumption, the KG200Z module is engineered for efficiency, boasting low power consumption to extend battery life significantly. This feature makes it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for IoT applications. The compact profile of 12.0 mm × 12.0 mm x 1.8mm in an LGA package ensures the module allows for easy integration into a variety of devices, providing flexibility for manufacturers and developers seeking to implement IoT solutions seamlessly.

Quectel’s IoT modules are developed with security at the core. From product architecture to firmware/software development, Quectel incorporates leading industry practices and standards, mitigating potential vulnerabilities with third party independent test houses and have incorporated security practices like generating SBOMs and VEX files as well as performing firmware binary analysis into the entire software development lifecycle.

Developed to address the specific needs of IoT applications, LoRa technology enables devices to transmit small packets of data over considerable distances with minimal power consumption. The technology is well-suited for applications such as smart locks, door sensors, gas and water leak detection, pet tracking, indoor air quality sensors, HVAC monitoring, smart parking and traffic monitoring, utility metering, waste management, air quality monitoring, as well as assets management tracking and other applications where devices need to send intermittent, low-data-rate messages over extended distances while conserving energy.

To empower customers in streamlining their design processes, Quectel provides two Sub 1GHz antennas for this module – the YEIN002AA and the YE0019AA. Both antennas support LoRa technology and are available in various formats, ensuring flexibility and compatibility for diverse project requirements.

The KG200Z LoRa module is now available for purchase on our website here.

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Wi-Fi HaLow Technology Extends the Range of Zetifi’s Connectivity Solutions for Farmers and Rural Residents, Transforming the Future of Agriculture.

Morse Micro, a leading Wi-Fi HaLow silicon vendor, and Zetifi, an innovator in last-mile connectivity for vehicles, machinery and farms, today announced a partnership to enhance Zetifi’s remote-area connectivity solutions with Wi-Fi HaLow technology.

Zetifi’s innovative technology enables farmers and other rural residents to access, extend and optimize coverage from existing radio, cellular or satellite networks, leading to reliable remote area connectivity in areas where phone coverage is otherwise unreliable or unavailable.

Zetifi’s long-range Wi-Fi coverage extension products address a major barrier to the digitalization of agriculture and are recognized as a foundational technology to unlock significant value from on-farm digital technologies in the years ahead. Morse Micro’s Wi-Fi HaLow technology will take Zetifi’s farm-wide Wi-Fi connectivity with the ZetiCell and ZetiRover to a whole new level. Zetifi’s and Morse Micro’s collaboration leverages the long-range capabilities of Wi-Fi HaLow to give more farmers than ever before the ability to embrace precision agriculture and remote monitoring and prepare for the introduction of connectivity-dependent autonomous machinery.

Dan Winson, CEO and founder of Zetifi, said:

“The Internet of Things is revolutionizing farming, and now Wi-Fi HaLow – the first version of Wi-Fi optimized for the IoT — is helping Zetifi deliver on the promise of smart, connected farming technology.”

“Our collaboration with Morse Micro is a defining moment in Zetifi’s mission to bring digital advancements to modern farming through remote-area connectivity.”

Zetifi currently offers two core products that together offer farming businesses true farm-wide Wi-Fi connectivity possibilities:

ZetiCell – a long-range Wi-Fi small cell installed on farmhouses or machinery sheds.
ZetiRover – a vehicle-mounted roaming Wi-Fi hotspot used on off-farm passenger vehicles or farm machinery.

The ZetiRover can be moved easily between vehicles and features fully integrated antennas and dual modems that enable seamless backhaul connections to multiple cellular and Wi-Fi networks. This multi-carrier functionality provides redundancy and extra coverage options to fill in more coverage gaps in remote areas. Crucially, it also enables a Wi-Fi link back to a private ZetiCell, enabling the ZetiRover to repeat Wi-Fi from a cellular or satellite ZetiCell connection up to three kilometers away.

While the ZetiRover currently uses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to create the vital link between the ZetiCell and ZetiRover, this link, while adequate, can easily be disrupted by natural obstacles such as trees or hilly terrain. Next-generation ZetiRover and ZetiCell products will incorporate Morse Micro’s long-range, sub-GHz Wi-Fi HaLow technology for direct connections to HaLow-enabled cameras and sensors, and to create more penetrative mesh connections between Zetifi devices.

“Zetifi’s wireless technology brings an innovative approach to rural connectivity, and we are proud to join them in the journey to transform smart farming technology with our Wi-Fi HaLow technology,” said Prakash Guda, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at Morse Micro. “The collaboration is a crucial step in the evolution of IoT agriculture by extending the wireless range and expanding the coverage of Zetifi’s connectivity solutions for farm equipment operating in remote areas.”

Morse Micro’s comprehensive Wi-Fi HaLow portfolio includes the industry’s smallest, fastest and lowest power IEEE 802.11ah compliant SoCs. The MM6108 SoC supports 1, 2, 4 and 8 MHz bandwidth and can deliver tens of Mbps throughput to support streaming HD video. Morse Micro’s Wi-Fi HaLow SoCs provide 10x the range, 100x the coverage area and 1000x the volume of traditional Wi-Fi solutions.

The post Morse Micro and Zetifi Announce Next-Generation Remote-Area Connectivity Solution for Smart IoT Farming at CES 2024 appeared first on IoT Business News.

CES – Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, is pleased to announce the successful certification of Quectel’s NTN-enabled module, the CC660D-LS, for use on the network by Skylo, the leading non-terrestrial network (NTN) service provider.

The module is the first to be certified by Skylo for use on its network and enables seamless and reliable IoT-NTN connectivity for any standard device that incorporates the module and has a view of the sky.

Quectel has developed the CC660D-LS module specifically to provide dependable and efficient, two-way, satellite communication capabilities. With the module’s certification on the Skylo network, businesses and organizations can harness the power of Skylo’s ubiquitous satellite connectivity to enable IoT applications in remote and challenging environments, ensuring that data is transmitted securely and reliably.

The CC660D-LS module provides a range of flexible connectivity options, encompassing L-band, S-band, and Band 23 connections. Notably, this module is equipped to support 3GPP Release 17 IoT non-terrestrial network (IoT-NTN) connections, reflecting its advanced capabilities. Prioritizing reliable connectivity, the CC660D-LS module excels in facilitating two-way communication. Furthermore, the module extends its support to both IP and Non-IP service networks. This dual capability ensures not only enhanced connectivity but also heightened service availability. The CC660D-LS module stands as a comprehensive solution for robust and versatile connectivity needs.

“We are delighted that Skylo has certified our NTN Satellite Communication Module for its network,” said Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions. “This certification reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality satellite communication solutions to our customers worldwide. By collaborating with Skylo, we enable businesses to unlock new opportunities and achieve their IoT goals, regardless of where they are located.”

The Skylo certification process involved rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that the CC660D-LS module meets stringent quality and performance standards, including 3GPP Release-17 standards and Skylo’s Standards Plus qualifications. Skylo’s network is designed to provide global coverage, ensuring that IoT devices equipped with Quectel’s module can stay connected in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure.

“We are excited to welcome Quectel’s CC660D-LS module to our ecosystem of certified devices,” said Dr Andrew Nuttall, CTO and Co-Founder of Skylo. “This certification is a testament to our commitment to providing the most reliable and expansive satellite based IoT connectivity. By partnering with industry leaders like Quectel, we empower device manufacturers of all types to expand their IoT applications, add additional review streams, and deliver a superior customer experience that requires no change in user behavior.”

Quectel’s CC660D-LS module is suitable for a wide range of applications, including asset tracking, fleet management, agriculture, maritime, and more. The module’s compact design and low-power consumption make it an ideal choice for battery-powered IoT devices that require long-term, uninterrupted connectivity.

Quectel’s IoT modules are developed with security at the core. From product architecture to firmware/software development, Quectel incorporates leading industry practices and standards, mitigating potential vulnerabilities with third party independent test houses and have incorporated security practices like generating SBOMs and VEX files as well as performing firmware binary analysis into the entire software development lifecycle.

IoT developers now can streamline their development process by combining Quectel modules with Quectel’s antennas and pre-certification services, effectively reducing both costs and time-to-market for their IoT devices. For the CC660D-LS satellite module, Quectel offers the YECN028AA and YFCA011AA antennas, providing developers with versatile options to enhance connectivity and expedite the deployment of their innovative solutions.

The post Quectel announces industry-first certification of satellite communication module on Skylo network appeared first on IoT Business News.

POND IoT partners with FrontierUS to enhance IoT solutions with global SIM technology, providing customers with streamlined access to Peplink devices and creating a more robust and comprehensive connectivity experience across industries.

POND IoT, a leader in Internet of Things (IoT) Connectivity solutions, is excited to announce its partnership with FrontierUS, a value-added distributor of Peplink devices in the United States.

This collaboration is set to provide customers purchasing hardware from FrontierUS with access to POND IoT’s global SIM, significantly enhancing the functionality and global reach of mobile networks across several sectors.

This partnership creates a comprehensive ecosystem for customers, offering a unified platform for distribution, support, and enhanced mobility solutions. The synergy between POND IoT and FrontierUS is poised to redefine the landscape of IoT and connectivity, offering direct access to Peplink’s extensive product range. This not only dramatically reduces lead times but also introduces competitive pricing structures. Customers of FrontierUS will benefit from POND IoT’s years of industry-leading experience, ensuring reliable connectivity that is paramount for operations demanding consistent and robust internet connectivity, here in the US and aboard.

“Our partnership with FrontierUS represents our commitment to advancing IoT technology and its accessibility.” – Igor Kamenetsky, CRO of POND IoT

“Our partnership with FrontierUS represents our commitment to advancing IoT technology and its accessibility,” said Igor Kamenetsky, CRO of POND IoT.

“Integrating our technology with Peplink’s robust hardware sets a new standard for connectivity solutions in various industries.”

FrontierUS, with its expertise in network technology and a deep understanding of the American market, is integral to this partnership. This collaboration is expected to not only improve the product offerings of both companies but also to provide customers with a more versatile and resilient connectivity experience.

“We are excited to officially launch our partnership with POND IoT and add this valuable and super-flexible offering to our portfolio. POND’s SMART SIM technology, coupled with their vast carrier network, aligns with the FrontierUS mission of enhancing our partners’ ability to create resilient connectivity across North America that is simple to deploy, and easy to manage and support”, said Paul Wieland, President & CEO of FrontierUS.

The post POND IoT and FrontierUS Partner Up to Transform IoT Connectivity with Global SIM Integration appeared first on IoT Business News.

Certified Quectel Wi-Fi HaLow Module Powered by Morse Micro MM6108 SoC Paves the Way for the Standard’s Global Adoption.

CES 2024 – Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, and Morse Micro, the leading Wi-Fi HaLow silicon vendor, today announced that the Quectel FGH100M Wi-Fi HaLow module has received CE certification for Europe and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification for the US.

The CE and FCC certification of the module, powered by Morse Micro’s MM6108 SoC, underscores the rigorous testing and compliance with the highest standards of safety, health, and environmental protection required in the European Area, while the certification by the FCC also means that the module is approved for use in electronic devices sold in the United States.

The certification represents a crucial step in expanding the market reach of Wi-Fi HaLow technology and enabling its deployment in a wide range of Wi-Fi HaLow and IoT applications across multiple geographic regions. This industry first achievement not only underscores Wi-Fi HaLow technology’s readiness for the global market, but also solidifies the protocol’s position as a leading communications standard.

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

“Wi-Fi HaLow technology represents the future of global connectivity, and receiving both the CE mark and FCC certification is a testament to the reliability, safety, and interoperability Wi-Fi HaLow modules.”

“Our collaboration with Morse Micro has been crucial in achieving this milestone and other industry certifications.”

The Wi-Fi HaLow module is designed for extended range and lower power consumption, making it ideal for numerous IoT applications, from smart homes and industrial automation to agricultural technology and beyond. With this certification, Quectel and Morse Micro are poised to lead the charge in long-range, low-power IoT connectivity, offering best-in-class Wi-Fi CERTIFIED HaLow solutions that meet the demands of today’s connected world.

“The Morse Micro team has been working tirelessly this year to expand the global reach of our Wi-Fi HaLow solutions, and that day has finally come with the achievement of CE certification for our module products,” said Prakash Guda, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at Morse Micro. “By securing European CE certification for Wi-Fi HaLow modules, Quectel and Morse Micro have demonstrated the standard’s global acceptance. It’s a major leap forward in establishing Wi-Fi HaLow as a universal standard for IoT and wireless connectivity.”

Operating in the sub-GHz frequency band, the Wi-Fi HaLow 802.11ah standard was designed from the ground up for the IoT, offering an optimal combination of extended range, power efficiency, long battery life for wireless devices, superior penetration of barriers, large network capacity, advanced security, and Wi-Fi compatibility.

The post Quectel and Morse Micro Introduce the Industry’s First Wi-Fi HaLow Module to Achieve European CE and US FCC Certifications at CES 2024 appeared first on IoT Business News.

The company plans to upload NB-IoT NTN standards into its operational LEO constellation.

Iridium Communications Inc., today announced Project Stardust, the evolution of its direct-to-device (D2D) strategy with 3GPP 5G standards-based Narrowband-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) service development.

As a new standards-based solution, it will be deployed on Iridium’s existing satellite network giving the company a unique ability to offer both high-quality proprietary and standardized D2D and IoT services to its customers.

The early stages of programming Iridium’s low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites offers a special opportunity to smartphone companies, OEMs, chipmakers, mobile network operators (MNO) and related IoT developers to have their requirements woven into the fabric of the Iridium® network. Iridium is already collaborating directly with several of these companies.

“This is an exciting moment for Iridium and is a testament to the flexibility and capability built into our satellite constellation,” said Iridium CEO Matt Desch.

“The industry is moving quickly towards a more standards-based approach, and after surveying the field, we found that we’re the best positioned to lead the way using our own network, particularly given our true global coverage.”

Iridium is designing its initial NB-IoT offering to support 5G NTN messaging and SOS capabilities for smartphones, tablets, cars, and related consumer applications. Adopting the service will enable device manufacturers to add a satellite connection to standardized devices, take advantage of existing, globally allocated and coordinated Iridium spectrum, and provide a superior low-latency LEO user experience. The Iridium network supports approximately 1,300 SOS and emergency (911 or equivalent) incidents per year, around the world and has readily available systems, processes, and partners to implement this capability for new devices.

Iridium understands the market need for its customers to develop and certify products quickly. Applying our established onboarding processes, chipmakers and NB-IoT developers can join Iridium’s ecosystem of about 500 partners, and choose a proprietary, standards-based, or dual-solution integration approach for added network redundancy. MNOs will have the opportunity to be a one-stop shop for ubiquitous coverage and off-grid use cases, with unmatched industry reliability. Iridium partners are supported by a 24/7 customer support, back office, billing, and provisioning system, all ready to support the new service upon launch.

The Iridium satellite constellation’s fully crosslinked, LEO architecture and global L-band spectrum provides a competitive service advantage versus other LEO and geostationary satellite networks. Certified to provide safety of life services by international regulatory bodies, the Iridium network has become the gold standard of reliability and continues to be the only network that provides connectivity everywhere on Earth. Operating in LEO, the Iridium constellation does not suffer from the same line-of-sight limitations, significant power requirements or outages that can affect entire regions from a single satellite as faced by geostationary systems.

The recognized leader in satellite IoT and personal communications, Iridium has more than two decades of experience and an unmatched partner ecosystem supporting more than 2.2 million users around the world. As of the third quarter of 2023, Iridium subscribers have grown at a 15% CAGR over the last five years, and the company serves approximately 1.7 million IoT customers today, including about 900,000 personal trackers and satellite messengers for consumer, enterprise, and government applications. Known for its reliability, coverage, and low power requirements, the Iridium network is an ideal fit for NB-IoT NTN service.

The company is currently working with several D2D and IoT-focused companies to understand and incorporate their use cases, requirements, and end-user needs into its planned service. The company anticipates testing to begin in 2025, with service in 2026.

The post Iridium Unveils Project Stardust; Developing the Only Truly Global, Standards-Based IoT and Direct-to-Device Service appeared first on IoT Business News.

Bertrand Moussel, Chair of the Trusted Connectivity Alliance Board, explores why the release of GSMA’s eSIM for IoT Specifications (SGP.31 and SGP.32) is a game-changing development that promises to accelerate the adoption of eSIM technology and unlock the full, transformative potential of the IoT.

The deployment of low-cost, low-power IoT devices at massive scale, such as smart meters, sensors, asset trackers and smart labels, is transforming entire industries by enabling new use-cases, revealing insights and realising efficiencies. The potential is evident, with McKinsey estimating the economic value to be up to $12.6 trillion globally.

Given the need for trusted, reliable and secure mobile connectivity across many of these emerging use-cases, cellular technologies are increasingly being leveraged to connect IoT devices. Global cellular IoT connections grew by 27% year-on-year in 2022 – significantly outstripping the overall growth rate – to account for nearly 20% of all global IoT connections. Looking ahead, the number of deployed cellular IoT devices is set to continue to increase with the new features and enhancements introduced in the latest 5G standards.

As deployments accelerate, demand for eSIM technology is growing to cut through complexity and promote simplified global connectivity and advanced security. In fact, GSMA Intelligence reports that 83% of organisations identify eSIM as important to the success of future IoT deployments.

Advancing Remote SIM Provisioning for the IoT

A key benefit of eSIM technology is that it is supported by an advanced, mature infrastructure that promotes interoperability and security, as profiles are remotely managed in accordance with GSMA’s well-established Remote SIM Provisioning Specifications for Consumer and M2M Devices.

Yet the growth of the massive IoT ecosystem presents unique considerations due to the increasing number of devices that are limited in terms of bandwidth (network constrained), user interface (UI constrained), and power consumption (power constrained). Network constrained and UI constrained devices present particular and significant challenges, as they cannot be optimally managed using the existing GSMA Consumer and M2M Specifications for Remote SIM Provisioning.

For example, the M2M Specification requires an SMS or HTTPS connection for profile downloads and management, which network-constrained devices cannot support. Similarly, many IoT devices lack a UI to enable an end-user to trigger or approve a profile download (as is required by the Consumer Specification).

Another challenge associated with the M2M Specification is the complex integration processes between different operators, which makes it difficult to switch profiles between providers. While this model works for verticals such as automotive, its inflexibility is unsuited for IoT use-cases. For example, an asset tracker in a shipping container needs to be able to connect to different operators across jurisdictions. Device manufacturers may also not always know the deployment locations of their products. Consequently, during production, they are required to select an operator and establish multiple production lines to address various geographies. The Consumer Specification offers a more streamlined approach, but the limitations of UI constrained devices demands a simpler model dedicated to the IoT.

Introducing GSMA’s eSIM for IoT Specifications

The industry has recognised that enhancing the eSIM infrastructure to meet these specific IoT requirements is crucial and, in response, GSMA has worked with industry stakeholders to develop and publish the eSIM for IoT Specifications (SGP.31 and SGP.32).

The new specifications build upon proven elements of the existing Consumer Specifications, while introducing new, dedicated features to address specific IoT considerations. This includes:

eSIM IoT Remote Manager (eIM): The eIM is a standardised, remote provisioning tool that enables profiles to be downloaded and managed on a single IoT device or a fleet of devices. This removes the requirement for direct consumer interaction or complex, inflexible integrations, simplifying IoT deployments at scale. The eIM also supports lightweight communication protocols to address network-constrained devices.

IoT Profile Assistant (IPA): Within the Consumer Specification, a feature called the Local Profile Assistant (LPA) enables users to download a profile from the operator’s eSIM Subscription Manager platform (known as the SM-DP+). The IoT Profile Assistant (IPA) replaces the LPA used within the Consumer Specification and provides the functions that enable the eSIM to be remotely managed using the existing SM-DP+ platform infrastructure.

Lightweight IoT Minimal Profile: TCA’s Interoperable Profile Package Specification – which is used in every eSIM deployed in the field – standardises the format used for the remote loading of subscriptions onto eSIMs across deployed devices. This enables mobile operators to load interoperable connectivity profiles in an eSIM, regardless of the SIM vendor.

A key update in Version 3.3 of TCA’s Interoperable Profile Package Specification is the definition of a ‘lightweight’ IoT minimal profile to address the growing challenge of remotely managing network constrained IoT devices.

This makes it possible to provision a profile even when bandwidth is very limited, which is crucial to supporting the growing use of eSIM technology to support constrained devices and enable various IoT use-cases and connectivity services. Given these benefits, Version 3.3 is referenced in SGP.32.

Advancing eSIM for IoT

The publication of a dedicated standard for remotely provisioning and managing IoT devices promises to accelerate the adoption of eSIM technology. While it will take some time for the first fully compliant solutions to be launched, Kaleido Intelligence anticipates that over half of active eSIMs across IoT deployments will be compliant with the new specification by 2028.

As deployments scale, TCA is committed to bringing together leading industry stakeholders to shape the ongoing standardisation and enhancement of eSIM technology and the supporting infrastructure. This includes continuing to be a key contributor to GSMA to further guide and support the development of its eSIM-related specifications and testing processes.

The post Why eSIM is set to transform the IoT appeared first on IoT Business News.

Innovative Wi-Fi HaLow Router with High-Speed Wi-Fi 6 for Long-Range IoT Connectivity in Diverse Environments.

CES 2024 – Morse Micro, a leading Wi-Fi HaLow silicon vendor, in partnership with Edgecore Networks, a prominent provider of traditional and open network solutions for enterprises, data centers, and telecommunication service providers, today announced a strategic partnership.

Together, they unveiled the new Wi-Fi HaLow router – the Edgecore EAP112.

This innovative router, ideal for outdoor environments and a variety of other settings, is designed to meet the rapidly growing demands of IoT applications. Equipped with advanced Wi-Fi HaLow capabilities and supporting the Matter protocol, the Edgecore EAP112 is uniquely positioned to connect thousands of IoT devices through a single device, marking a significant advancement in IoT connectivity solutions.

Edgecore EAP112 integrates Morse Micro’s MM6108 Wi-Fi HaLow module, marking a significant advancement for both commercial and consumer access point/router segments. The EAP112 is poised to revolutionize wireless connectivity by providing enhanced coverage and longer range for Wi-Fi-enabled IoT products using Wi-Fi HaLow technology.

“Our collaboration with Edgecore represents a pivotal moment in Morse Micro’s journey to redefine wireless connectivity for the IoT with Wi-Fi HaLow technology,” said Michael De Nil, co-founder and CEO at Morse.

“The integration of our Wi-Fi HaLow module into Edgecore’s EAP112 access point/router platform exemplifies our commitment to expanding long-range connectivity options for the growing IoT ecosystem.”

Wi-Fi HaLow technology is the first Wi-Fi standard tailored to meet the unique needs of the Internet of Things (IoT), making it a superior alternative to traditional Wi-Fi alternatives in a wide range of IoT applications. Operating in the sub-GHz frequency band, the Wi-Fi HaLow 802.11ah standard was designed from the ground up for the IoT, offering an optimal combination of extended range, power efficiency, long battery life for wireless devices, superior penetration of barriers, large network capacity, advanced security, and Wi-Fi compatibility.

The EAP112 offers robust extensibility and usability for diverse IoT applications, featuring Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi HaLow, 4G LTE, BLE, Zigbee, and Thread. Designed for resilience in various environments and applications, especially in challenging terrains or climates, it operates within a temperature range of -30°C to 50°C and is IP65-rated for superior water and dust resistance. The EAP112 also provides flexible mounting options, including wall, ceiling, and pole mount, to accommodate specific site needs.

The Edgecore EAP112 is designed to leverage the complementary strengths of Wi-Fi HaLow and Wi-Fi 6 technologies, providing unparalleled range, coverage, speed and reliability. This Wi-Fi combination is especially critical in today’s IoT-driven world, where the ever-increasing demand for consistent and robust wireless communication is driving innovations in access point and router platforms.

Key Features of the Edgecore EAP112 Access Point/Router:

Enhanced Coverage: The EAP112, equipped with Morse Micro’s MM6108 module, significantly boosts IoT connectivity, ensuring efficient and effective coverage. This enhancement enables intelligent applications across a variety of settings, including expansive residential areas, commercial spaces, and industrial environments.
Advanced Connectivity: The platform’s Wi-Fi 6 technology ensures higher data rates and increased capacity, making it ideal for handling multiple IoT devices and high-bandwidth applications.
Optimized Power Efficiency: The integration of Wi-Fi HaLow ensures that the EAP112 is not only powerful but also power-efficient, making it suitable for deployments in remote locations.
Future-Proof Technology: The EAP112 is designed to meet the evolving demands of both commercial and consumer applications, paving the way for widespread adoption of Wi-Fi HaLow technology in the IoT ecosystem.

“Our partnership with Morse Micro aligns seamlessly with our goal to provide innovative products in the Wi-Fi HaLow IoT router market. The launch of the EAP112 represents a pivotal moment in harnessing the extensive potential of IoT connectivity, bringing significant advantages to our clientele in both commercial and consumer segments,” declared TengTai Hsu, VP of Edgecore Networks. “The EAP112 embodies our commitment to innovation and excellence, reflecting our dedication to advancing IoT applications with technologies like Wi-Fi HaLow and Matter. We have initiated Proof of Concept (POC) collaborations with selected regional customers. Our long-established partner, BeMap, is gearing up to kick off the sales and marketing of the EAP112 in Japan. Concurrently, Edgecore Wi-Fi is preparing to open pre-orders for the EAP112 to the global market later this year.”

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