According to a new research report from the IoT analyst firm Berg Insight, the number of active consumer asset tracking devices in Europe and North America reached 12.5 million at the end of 2022.

Growing at a CAGR of 18.4 percent the number of units in active use is estimated to reach 29.2 million units by the end of 2027. The market value is during the same period forecasted to grow from € 1.6 billion in 2022 to € 3.8 billion in 2027.

Consumer asset tracking solutions utilizing wireless wide area networks such as cellular, satellite, LoRa or Sigfox can be divided into four main categories based on asset type – family and child tracking, pet tracking, vehicle tracking and general asset tracking. The vehicle category can be further divided into cars; motorcycles and mopeds; bicycles; caravans and motor caravans; leisure boats; and other consumer vehicles including ATVs and snowmobiles. The general asset tracking segment includes any type of asset, such as bags and luggage, keys, wallets, clothes, electronics, tools and sports equipment.

Leading providers of family and child tracking products and services include Smartcom Mobility Solutions, Smith Micro Software, Life360, Xplora Technologies and Verizon. The pet tracking market is dominated by Tractive, Fi, Whistle and Halo. The market for aftermarket car telematics solutions sold to consumers is led by Verizon, Mojio, Tail Light and Agnik in North America and Haysquare, Net4Things and the Plan B Company in Europe. Leading providers of GPS tracking and vehicle recovery solutions for motorcycles and mopeds in Europe include Datatool (Scorpion Automotive), Mapit IoT, Monimoto and GeoRide. A few companies provide tracking solutions developed specifically for leisure boats, including Sensar Marine, Sentinel Marine Solutions, Sailsense Analytics, Vetel and Siren Marine. The market for GPS trackers for electric bicycles is growing rapidly. The market is today led by European companies such as IoT Venture, PowUnity, Haveltec, BikeFinder and Tracefy. Trackimo, Invoxia, LandAirSea are leading providers of general-purpose tracking devices.

“The demand for consumer asset tracking solutions is growing across all segments”, says Martin Backman, Principal Analyst at Berg Insight. The market is still in an early phase and many solution providers are still searching for the right business model and pricing model. Very few companies have emerged as clear market leaders in specific asset tracking market segments in Europe or North America. Most companies are still mainly serving the domestic market or nearby countries.

“Technological advancements in battery capacity, processor power and network technology will continuously enable better solutions at lower price points”, continues Mr. Backman. This will make the solutions even more attractive to consumers and create a higher demand.

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Industry 4.0, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, represents a significant transformation in the world of manufacturing and industry. It is characterized by the integration of digital technologies into industrial processes with the primary aim of improving manufacturing responsiveness, quality, and efficiency. This revolution is reshaping the landscape of manufacturing, enabling companies to achieve higher levels of productivity, flexibility, and self-managing production processes.

In this essay, we will explore the key principles, technologies, and advantages of Industry 4.0, as well as its applicability across various industrial segments.

Principles of Industry 4.0

At the core of Industry 4.0 are several key principles that define its approach to manufacturing and industrial processes. These principles serve as guiding philosophies for the implementation of digital technologies in the industrial sector:

Interoperability: Interoperability emphasizes the seamless communication and integration of various components within a manufacturing ecosystem. In an Industry 4.0 environment, different machines, sensors, and systems can work together effectively, sharing data and information in real-time. This interconnectedness enables the efficient flow of data and decision-making.
Virtualization: Virtualization involves the creation of virtual models or digital twins of physical assets and processes. These digital replicas provide a means to simulate and analyze real-world scenarios, allowing for optimization, testing, and troubleshooting without disrupting actual operations. Digital twins are instrumental in predictive maintenance and process improvement.
Decentralization: Industry 4.0 promotes decentralization by empowering individual components and devices with decision-making capabilities. Rather than relying solely on centralized control, smart machines, and systems have the autonomy to make real-time decisions based on data and predefined rules. This decentralization leads to increased flexibility and adaptability in manufacturing.
Real-Time Capability: Real-time capability is a fundamental aspect of Industry 4.0, enabling the immediate processing and utilization of data. In a manufacturing setting, real-time data analysis ensures rapid response to changing conditions, such as production anomalies or shifts in customer demand. It supports agile decision-making and optimization.
Service Orientation: The service-oriented approach in Industry 4.0 extends beyond physical production to include value-added services. Manufacturers can offer customized services alongside their products, creating new revenue streams and enhancing customer experiences. This shift towards servitization is a hallmark of Industry 4.0.
Modularity: Modularity refers to the design of systems and processes in a way that allows for easy integration, modification, and scalability. Modular systems facilitate the replacement or addition of components without extensive disruption, promoting efficiency and flexibility in manufacturing environments.

Technologies Driving Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 leverages a range of advanced technologies to bring its principles to life. Some of the key technologies include:

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS): At the heart of Industry 4.0, CPS combines physical machinery with digital intelligence. These systems enable real-time monitoring, control, and coordination of physical processes. For instance, a smart factory may employ CPS to optimize production and maintenance processes.
Internet of Things (IoT): IoT connects devices and sensors to the Internet, facilitating data collection and sharing. In manufacturing, IoT enables predictive maintenance, remote monitoring, and efficient resource utilization. Sensors placed on machinery can transmit data for analysis and decision-making.
Big Data and Data Analytics: The vast amounts of data generated by IoT devices and other sources require advanced analytics to derive meaningful insights. Big data analytics identifies patterns, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement. Manufacturers can use these insights for quality control, demand forecasting, and process optimization.
Cloud Computing: Cloud computing provides a scalable and flexible infrastructure for data storage and processing. It supports remote access and collaboration, making it possible for geographically dispersed teams to work together in real-time. Cloud platforms also facilitate the deployment of machine learning models and data sharing.
Automation and Robotics: Automation in Industry 4.0 involves the use of robots and artificial intelligence (AI) to automate tasks and processes. Robots can handle repetitive and dangerous tasks, while AI algorithms can optimize production, inventory management, and logistics.
Human-Machine Interaction (HMI): HMI focuses on improving the interaction between humans and machines within the manufacturing environment. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) interfaces enhance operator efficiency and decision-making.
Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): Additive manufacturing technologies allow for the creation of complex, customized parts and prototypes. This contributes to the concept of mass customization, where products are tailored to individual customer needs without sacrificing efficiency.
Blockchain Technology: Blockchain provides a secure and transparent way to record and verify transactions. In supply chain management, it ensures traceability and authenticity of products, reducing the risk of counterfeit goods and enhancing trust among stakeholders.

Advantages of Industry 4.0

The adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies offers numerous advantages to industrial companies, especially amid the challenges presented by events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some of the key benefits:

Enhanced Productivity: One of the most significant advantages of Industry 4.0 is the substantial increase in productivity and operational efficiency it brings to manufacturing and industrial processes. Through the integration of advanced technologies such as automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, production processes become streamlined and optimized. Real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and autonomous systems lead to reduced downtime, higher throughput, and improved resource utilization. This enhanced productivity ultimately translates into cost savings and increased competitiveness for businesses.
Improved Quality Control: Industry 4.0 technologies provide unprecedented capabilities for quality control and assurance. IoT sensors and real-time data analytics enable manufacturers to detect defects and anomalies in products or processes immediately. This allows for timely adjustments, reducing the production of faulty goods and enhancing overall product quality. As a result, companies can maintain higher customer satisfaction levels and reduce costs associated with rework or recalls.
Flexibility and Adaptability: In a rapidly changing business landscape, flexibility and adaptability are crucial. Industry 4.0 promotes these attributes by decentralizing decision-making and enabling quick responses to market fluctuations and customer demands. Smart manufacturing systems can adjust production schedules, product configurations, and resource allocations in real time. This flexibility not only improves agility but also helps businesses remain competitive in dynamic markets.
Predictive Maintenance: The implementation of Industry 4.0 allows for predictive maintenance strategies. By continuously monitoring the condition of machinery and equipment through IoT sensors and analyzing data with machine learning algorithms, companies can anticipate when maintenance is needed before equipment failure occurs. This proactive approach minimizes unplanned downtime, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the lifespan of assets.
Mass Customization: Industry 4.0 enables a shift from mass production to mass customization. Through technologies like additive manufacturing (3D printing) and advanced robotics, companies can efficiently produce personalized products tailored to individual customer preferences. This not only meets the growing demand for personalized goods but also fosters stronger customer engagement and loyalty.
Digital Operations: The ongoing digital transformation in Industry 4.0 has proven invaluable during unexpected disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. With remote monitoring and control capabilities, manufacturers can continue operations even when physical presence is limited. This resilience enhances business continuity and minimizes the impact of crises, ensuring that production can continue without compromising safety.
Sustainability and Resource Efficiency: Industry 4.0 technologies contribute to sustainability efforts by optimizing resource utilization and reducing waste. Predictive analytics and process optimization lead to more energy-efficient operations, reduced material waste, and minimized environmental impact. This not only aligns with corporate social responsibility goals but also reduces operational costs in the long run.
Competitive Advantage: By embracing Industry 4.0, companies gain a significant competitive advantage. They can deliver higher-quality products, respond faster to market changes, and offer personalized solutions that meet customer demands effectively. This enhanced competitiveness can lead to increased market share, revenue growth, and a stronger market position in their respective industries.

Applicability Across Industries

The transformation brought about by Industry 4.0 is not limited to a particular sector. It is applicable across various industrial segments, including manufacturing, aerospace, food, energy, mining, and healthcare. Let’s explore its applicability in a few key sectors:

Oil and Gas Industry: The oil and gas sector has adopted Industry 4.0 to enhance exploration, drilling, and production processes. IoT sensors on offshore platforms monitor equipment health and environmental conditions, while predictive maintenance ensures the reliability of critical machinery.
Mining Industry: Mining companies leverage Industry 4.0 to optimize resource extraction, reduce operational costs, and enhance worker safety. Autonomous mining equipment, equipped with sensors and AI, can operate in hazardous environments, making operations more efficient and less risky.
Healthcare: In healthcare, Industry 4.0 technologies are used to improve patient care and streamline hospital operations. IoT devices and wearable sensors enable remote patient monitoring, while data analytics support disease diagnosis and treatment planning.
Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): Industry 4.0 technologies have revolutionized additive manufacturing processes, allowing for the creation of complex and customized products. 3D printing, supported by digital design and real-time monitoring, enables rapid prototyping, reduced material waste, and on-demand production of parts and products.
Aerospace and Defense: The aerospace and defense sector uses Industry 4.0 to improve aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and operations. IoT sensors and data analytics help optimize aircraft performance, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance safety.
Food and Beverage: Industry 4.0 is used in the food and beverage industry to monitor and control production processes, ensuring food safety and quality. Automated systems and sensors help with inventory management, production scheduling, and traceability.
Energy and Utilities: The energy and utilities sector employs Industry 4.0 technologies to manage power generation, distribution, and consumption more efficiently. Smart grids, sensors, and real-time data analysis enable better energy management and grid reliability.
Pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceutical companies utilize Industry 4.0 to improve drug development, manufacturing, and quality control. Automated processes, robotics, and data analytics enhance the production of pharmaceuticals while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Retail and E-commerce: Retailers and e-commerce companies leverage Industry 4.0 for supply chain optimization, inventory management, and customer personalization. RFID technology, AI-driven demand forecasting, and automated warehouses are some examples of its application.
Logistics and Transportation: The logistics and transportation industry utilizes Industry 4.0 to optimize routes, track shipments, and improve overall logistics efficiency. IoT-enabled tracking devices, autonomous vehicles, and predictive maintenance play significant roles in this sector.
Agriculture: Precision agriculture employs Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance crop management, optimize resource usage, and monitor environmental conditions. Sensors, drones, and data analytics assist farmers in making informed decisions to increase yield and sustainability.
Textiles and Apparel: Textile and apparel manufacturers benefit from Industry 4.0 by automating production processes, reducing waste, and enabling customization. IoT devices and digital twins help monitor and control textile production lines.
Construction and Real Estate: In construction, Industry 4.0 aids in project management, building design, and maintenance. Building information modeling (BIM) and IoT sensors improve construction efficiency and building performance.
Financial Services: The financial industry incorporates Industry 4.0 technologies for fraud detection, risk assessment, and customer service. Machine learning algorithms and data analytics are used to analyze financial data and make informed decisions.

Challenges of Industry 4.0 Adoption

While the promise of increased efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness is alluring, the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies presents several challenges that must be addressed strategically. We will explore the key challenges associated with Industry 4.0 adoption.

Lack of Internal Alignment: One of the foremost challenges faced by businesses when embracing Industry 4.0 is the lack of internal alignment regarding which strategies to pursue. With the advent of digital technologies, new business models are emerging, necessitating a shift in how companies operate. However, without a consensus on the business strategy, or the right people in place to drive it, internal challenges can impede progress.
Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Concerns: As businesses become more interconnected through Industry 4.0, there is a heightened concern for cybersecurity and data privacy. The online integration of processes, systems, and people creates vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cyberattacks, potentially resulting in security breaches and data leaks. Companies must make substantial investments in advanced encryption, authentication protocols, and robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical information generated by connected devices and systems.
Workforce Displacement: Automation, a key component of Industry 4.0, can lead to concerns about workforce displacement. As machines and algorithms take on more tasks, the nature of work may change, potentially displacing some workers. This challenge requires companies to address the impact on their employees through reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure a smooth transition to new roles and responsibilities.
Technology Adoption Pathways: The path to Industry 4.0 adoption varies significantly based on the specific technologies being incorporated and the existing infrastructure and skills of organizations. For some, the transition may involve significant changes and investments, while others may find a more gradual approach suitable. Navigating these pathways can be complex and challenging.

Strategies to Overcome Industry 4.0 Challenges

To harness the power of this transformative era, companies must navigate these challenges effectively. Given below are strategies to overcome the adoption challenges.

Comprehensive Understanding of Capabilities: To address the lack of internal alignment, businesses should start with a comprehensive understanding of their current capabilities. This involves assessing the skills, resources, and technologies already in place. Identifying the gaps that Industry 4.0 can fill is crucial. This assessment may reveal the need for reskilling or upskilling initiatives to ensure that the workforce is prepared for the technological shift.
Addressing Cybersecurity Concerns: Prioritizing cybersecurity is non-negotiable in the age of Industry 4.0. To mitigate cybersecurity and data privacy concerns, companies must make substantial investments in advanced security measures. This includes implementing robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits. Moreover, fostering a cybersecurity-aware culture within the organization is equally important to ensure that employees are vigilant and informed.
Change Management Strategies: Effective change management is pivotal in overcoming resistance and driving acceptance of new technologies. Collaborative efforts to manage change within the organization can help address the challenges associated with Industry 4.0 adoption. This involves clear communication of the reasons for the changes, providing training and support to employees, and involving them in the decision-making process where possible. Engaging leadership and leading from the top can play an important role in bringing about the cultural change needed for digital transformation.
Scalability and Flexibility: Industry 4.0 solutions must be scalable and flexible to adapt to changing demands and future growth. Companies should design solutions that are agile and can evolve with their business needs. It’s advisable to start with smaller, scalable pilot projects that can demonstrate the value of Industry 4.0 technologies before committing to larger-scale implementations. This allows businesses to learn, iterate, and scale gradually.
End-to-End Approach: Successful implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies requires an end-to-end approach that incorporates people, processes, technologies, and data. Rather than viewing technology adoption in isolation, businesses should consider how it fits into their overall operations and strategy. This holistic approach ensures that technology is integrated seamlessly, and its benefits are maximized.

Conclusion

Industry 4.0 represents a pivotal transformation in the industrial landscape, driven by the seamless integration of digital technologies into manufacturing and industrial processes. Its foundational principles of interoperability, virtualization, decentralization, real-time capability, service orientation, and modularity serve as guiding pillars for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like Cyber-Physical Systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), extensive data analytics, and automation. Embracing Industry 4.0 yields numerous advantages, including heightened productivity, superior quality control, enhanced flexibility, and the agility to respond to dynamic market conditions.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has expedited the uptake of Industry 4.0 technologies, as they facilitate digital operations and contactless processes. This transformative shift extends beyond a specific industry; it has wide-ranging applicability across sectors, spanning from discrete manufacturing to healthcare.

In the ongoing progression of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it becomes imperative for businesses to wholeheartedly adopt Industry 4.0 and leverage its capabilities to maintain competitiveness, efficiency, and adaptability within an ever-evolving global marketplace. The principles and technologies underpinning Industry 4.0 are shaping the future of industry, enabling a more interconnected, efficient, and sustainable approach to manufacturing and production.

Although the challenges associated with Industry 4.0 adoption are substantial, they are by no means insurmountable. Companies that strategically and proactively address these challenges can unlock the full potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. By gaining a deep understanding of their own capabilities, prioritizing cybersecurity measures, adeptly managing the process of change, and embracing scalable solutions through a comprehensive approach, organizations can successfully navigate the intricacies of Industry 4.0, positioning themselves for a future that is marked by efficiency, competitiveness, and digital transformation.

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Use Cases including Smart Home, Smart City, Building Automation, Smart Retail, Industrial IoT, and Agriculture Technology demonstrate how Wi-Fi HaLow addresses a wide range of IoT applications.

The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA), the global organization that connects people with the latest Wi-Fi initiatives, has today announced that its “Wi-Fi HaLow for IoT” program has moved into a new phase, showcasing 802.11ah Wi-Fi HaLow solutions in real-world use cases with contributing industry members.

These include a range of applications including Smart Home, Smart City, Building Automation, Smart Retail, Industrial IoT, and Agriculture Technology. A new “Wi-Fi HaLow for IoT” white paper released today also gives an overview of the features, expected use cases, and markets for Wi-Fi HaLow.

These commercial deployments will demonstrate how Wi-Fi HaLow extends the benefits of Wi-Fi into more Internet of Things (IoT) applications where unique technical challenges must be overcome to realize the business benefits. Wi-Fi HaLow delivers extended ranges, improved material penetration capabilities, extended battery life, enhanced device density, minimized end-to-end delay, a higher level of security, ease of installation and management, and elevated data throughput in IoT scenarios.

The Wi-Fi HaLow trial scenarios

In the coming months, the project team will test the use cases and applications to demonstrate the benefits and performance Wi-Fi HaLow has in the real world, including understanding crucial metrics such as coverage areas, data rates, throughput, and signal reliability. A detailed analysis from the trials will inform new deployment guides, helping the wider industry successfully roll-out IoT solutions, without having to resort to proprietary or non-IP technologies to gain the automation, insights and business benefits that IoT promises to deliver.

Smart Home – Evaluate Wi-Fi HaLow against traditional Wi-Fi in security cameras, HVAC, appliances, detached garage connections, solar power systems, power backup generators, and EV chargers.
Smart City – Focus on infrastructure monitoring, smart utilities, and traffic management to highlight wider coverage benefits, high data throughput, increased device density, and low-cost maintenance.
Smart Building Automation – Conduct testing to support smart building applications such as physical security, surveillance, access control, safety alarms, and water sensors.
Smart Retail – Showcase how Wi-Fi HaLow enhances consumer satisfaction and increases productivity for retailers and partners. The assessment will cover scanners, readers, point-of-sale equipment, asset tracking, security monitoring, warehouse robots, and handlers.
Industrial IoT – A focus on testing industrial applications including asset tracking, infrastructure monitoring, remote equipment control, safety automation, and security monitoring.
Agriculture Technology – Trials in smart agriculture or precision farming systems, including environmental monitoring, soil monitoring, plant health monitoring, actuator control, and data collection for predictive breeding.

Wi-Fi HaLow includes a host of key features such as operation in the sub-1 GHz radio band, the use of narrow channel bandwidths, an increased number of supported devices and new operating modes to accommodate battery-operated devices. It also, builds upon the foundations of Wi-Fi, retaining such features as the most up-to-date high levels of security and native-IP support inherent in all internet connectivity.

Tiago Rodrigues, CEO of the Wireless Broadband Alliance, said:
“The move to demonstrating Wi-Fi HaLow in real-world scenarios is an important milestone for the WBA and the contributing industry members supporting these activities. Each scenario will highlight how Wi-Fi HaLow solves connectivity problems, which previously may have required non-standard RF radio technology, or incurred higher costs of ownership. A detailed analysis from these deployments will inform new deployment guides, helping wider industry to successfully roll-out IoT solutions, without having to resort to proprietary or non-IP technologies to gain the automation, insights and business benefits that IoT promises to deliver.”

Marleen Boonen, CEO and Founder of Methods2Business, said:
“The initiation of Wi-Fi HaLow’s real-world trials marks a significant milestone, allowing users to first-hand experience the technology’s extended range, energy efficiency, and high penetration capabilities. These trials validate Wi-Fi HaLow as a reliable and secure IoT connectivity solution for wide range of applications in diverse environments, further stimulating adoption. The overwhelming results from the initial trials are a real stimulus for intensifying our investments in this compelling technology.”

Prakash Guda, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at Morse Micro, said:
“We applaud the WBA’s use case trials of Wi-Fi HaLow in real-world ‘smart’ applications and believe the results will underscore the protocol’s superior long-range, low-power connectivity for the IoT. Momentum is building for Wi-Fi HaLow as deployments accelerate in industry IoT, security camera and access point products, many of which were showcased at CES 2024. Offering 10x the range, 100x the coverage area, and 1000x the volume of traditional Wi-Fi technologies, Wi-Fi HaLow is ready for primetime in the IoT ecosystem and is a natural fit for edge-based AI, especially for long-range, intelligent applications.”

Zac Freeman, Vice President of Marketing & Sales of Newracom, articulated:
“Wi-Fi HaLow deployments underscore the profound impact of the Wi-Fi HaLow standard. The extensive capabilities and robust connectivity features of Wi-Fi HaLow elevate IoT to a heightened level, overcoming limitations imposed by older connectivity standards. This technology enables the deployment of IoT solutions with unprecedented scope, fully realizing the vision of smart services without constraints. We are genuinely enthusiastic about sharing the transformative influence of Wi-Fi HaLow in real-world scenarios.”

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“Operators and vendors must prove RedCap’s use cases and drive maturity in the ecosystem to pursue new revenue and monetisation opportunities.”

5G reduced capability (RedCap) is a connectivity standard that enables IoT devices to operate more efficiently and to use less bandwidth than traditional 5G devices (for example, smartphones), which reduces the cost of the associated applications because they do not require full 5G capacity. RedCap technology has the potential to increase the addressable market for 5G while providing additional capabilities over existing low-performance IoT solutions. Both vendors and operators should view 5G RedCap as an opportunity to diversify network use cases and drive network monetisation. However, operators and vendors must also ensure that they consider the strengths and limitations of the technology as part of proving its use cases and driving maturity within the ecosystem.

RedCap technology can offer a functional ‘middle ground’ between high performance 5G and NB-IoT

RedCap technology was first standardised in 3GPP’s Release-17 in 2022. It allows IoT devices to leverage a subset of the capabilities of the 5G network to support applications that fall between the performance requirements of 5G and narrow band IoT (NB-IoT). In this way, 5G RedCap provides a middle ground of connectivity; leveraging some of 5G’s advanced capabilities (such as low latency, high reliability and a higher peak data rates), as well as outperforming 5G enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) in terms of component costs and battery life (see Figure 1).

Figure 1: Comparison of RedCap’s capabilities with those of enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC), LTE-M enhanced machine type communication (eMTC) and NB-IoT

In some scenarios, RedCap could offer a viable alternative to the two existing 4G-based IoT standards: LTE Category (Cat) 1–4 and NB-IoT. The technology will offer the following benefits over existing IoT standards.

Reduced latency compared with existing LTE-M (eMTC) and NB-IoT technologies. This enables RedCap to support applications that require near real-time data communication.
Higher peak data rates than LTE Cat 1 and NB-IoT to support new IoT applications that require greater bandwidth.
Capacity to leverage new 5G capabilities including the benefits of the 5G core, such as network slicing and advanced positioning.

The reduced capabilities of RedCap devices will also offer the following benefits, which are not offered by 5G URLLC or eMBB for IoT devices and applications.

Improved power efficiency. Compared with eMBB and URLLC, RedCap’s improved power efficiencies create a middle ground in terms of functionality and battery life.
Reduced costs. As well as potentially lower costs than traditional devices, RedCap devices can use half-duplex frequency division duplex (FDD) transmission mode to leverage less costly switches rather than expensive duplexers.

There are also other new 5G IoT technologies that must be considered by stakeholders, such as mMTC, advanced 5G sensing and passive IoT. However, 5G RedCap offers an alternative to these technologies that is optimal for certain use cases and could create different opportunities in new and existing applications.

RedCap technology will enhance existing applications and enable new use cases, but the ecosystem is not yet mature

The following key applications for RedCap are anticipated.

Industrial wireless sensors. This includes connected sensors for remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, energy management and asset tracking. While RedCap’s higher cost and power consumption currently limit its suitability in narrowband applications, its benefits in terms of latency and reliability make it suitable for more-critical applications. Its ability to leverage 5G improved positioning and network slicing also expands its addressable market beyond that of 4G IoT.
Wearables. Small, connected devices (including smart watches, health monitoring devices, fitness trackers and AR/VR headsets) can be worn on the body and equipped with sensors and processors to collect and transmit data. RedCap technology enables wearables to access 5G’s lower latency, higher data rates and advanced positioning, but with a smaller device size, improved power efficiency and reduced costs.
Surveillance devices. This includes cameras or recording devices, such as security cameras, body cams and facial recognition systems. RedCap technology could offer a lower cost alternative to 5G eMBB connectivity for these applications, potentially improving the business case for 5G connected cameras.
Smart grids. Smart electrical grids are connected to the network to improve efficiency, reliability and sustainability. The numerous applications of smart grids are dependent on connectivity, such as smart metres, and grid sensors and for real-time monitoring. RedCap is able to bring improved latency, peak data rates and reliability to these applications compared with traditional IoT connections such as NB-IoT and LTE-M.
Fixed–wireless access (FWA). RedCap technology can lower cost, lower performance and more compact customer premises equipment (CPE) for 5G FWA. This could help FWA to better address some emerging market opportunities where CPE prices are the main barrier to adoption.

Although 5G RedCap will offer a new balance of cellular connectivity for IoT that will be applicable across a range of applications, it remains an emerging technology that needs to prove that it can add value to end users. At the moment, RedCap has still not reached substantial commercialisation and its ecosystem remains immature, which could slow adoption of the technology.

Operators and vendors should see 5G RedCap as a key opportunity, but one that still needs proof and ecosystem support

Although RedCap will not serve all IoT applications, its potential to augment operators’ IoT offerings and to support new market segments makes it a valuable opportunity. Over the past year, trials of RedCap chipsets and products have continued to break ground and its performance enhancements in 5G Advanced are expected to further increase its utility. Consequently, both vendors and operators should see 5G RedCap as an opportunity to diversify network use cases and drive network monetisation. However, investment to support RedCap’s capabilities will only be justified if the industry can prove its advantages and use cases for customers.

Operators and vendors should consider themselves as key enablers of RedCap, not only in terms of connectivity, but also in driving ecosystem maturity. In applications such as surveillance, smart grids, sensors and wearables, both operators and vendors should build specialised partnerships, support new device manufacturers and demonstrate the benefits that RedCap can offer both existing markets and new applications. By doing so, operators and vendors can accelerate the pace of ecosystem maturity to increase RedCap adoption and new revenue opportunities.

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The Internet of Things has quietly revolutionised the way we travel- no longer do we have to worry about fumbling through paper maps or anxiously waiting when our luggage takes longer to come out onto the carousel than we expected. We’re now in the era of smart travel accessories that are able to blend technology with travel in a really seamless way, this makes our journeys so much more connected and hassle free than ever. Read on to find out about some of these revelations when it comes to travel.

Smart Luggage

Smart luggage is embedded with IoT wonders, and is changing the travel game. Integrated GPS trackers let you keep tabs on your suitcase’s location in real time so you dont need to stress about lost bags since you can track them right from your smartphone. Whether you’re using luggage storage and want to check that your bags are where you left them, or flying across the globe you know exactly where they are. Smart suitcases often come equipped with a range of features, on great one is built in scales (so you never exceed those pesky airline weight limits!)

Smart Locks

With IoT-powered locks, you can forget about the anxiety of things like misplaced keys or forgotten combinations. Instead, just use your smartphone to secure and access your belongings instead. Some smart locks offer advanced security features too like tamper alerts and real time monitoring so you can receive a notification on your phone if someone tries to mess with your luggage. Perfect for peace of mind and security.

Wearables

Wearable devices that are designed have gained massively popularity, from smartwatches to fitness trackers. However these wearables arent just useful for health but offer features like navigation assistance, language translation and more so are perfect for your travels. You could be strolling through the streets of a foreign city, and your wrist gently vibrates to guide you to the nearest must see attraction allowing you to get the most out of your time there!

Sustainability

As the we all embrace the importance of sustainability more and more, IoT is playing its part in the travel industry. Smart technology is being used to create eco-friendly travel solutions- hotels are implementing smart energy management systems so that lights and appliances only operate when needed. In transportation, IoT plays a key role in optimising routes and reducing fuel consumption. Smart navigation systems help drivers avoid traffic congestion, leading to smoother journeys and less environmental impact.

Smart Transportation

Speaking of transportation, the IoT is reshaping how we move from one place to another. Connected vehicles, equipped with sensors and communication technologies are all creating a safer and more efficient travel environment. Cars “talk” to each other, sharing information about road conditions, potential hazards and traffic patterns. This can all help to contribute to the overall safety of the road, minimising accidents and creating a more predictable commuting experience. Public transportation is also getting a tech upgrade, with IoT-enabled systems ensuring timely arrivals and departures. The days of waiting endlessly for a bus or train are fading away, replaced by a more efficient and connected urban landscape.

Smart Cities and Tourism

Smart cities that are powered by IoT are making this a reality. There’s everything from intelligent street lights that adjust brightness based on pedestrian activity to interactive kiosks that can provide rea -time information to tourists. These cities are designed to enhance your travel experience.

Personalised Travel Experiences

The beauty of IoT really comes down to its ability to tailor experiences to individual preferences. Smart travel platforms use data to understand your preferences and offer you personalised recommendations, like suggesting local eateries based on your taste preferences to providing real-time updates on your favourite attractions. IoT is putting the power of personalisation in the hands of travellers and that can only make things smoother, safer and all round better for us all.

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Long-distance video call over sub-GHz Wi-Fi HaLow signals in real-world conditions extends more than 10x farther than conventional Wi-Fi.

Morse Micro, the leading Wi-Fi HaLow silicon vendor, today announced the world’s first live demonstration of Wi-Fi CERTIFIED HaLow technology extending three kilometers (nearly two miles).

Morse Micro staged this record-setting field test of a long-range video call in San Francisco’s Ocean Beach neighborhood to showcase the ability of sub-GHz Wi-Fi HaLow signals to reach long distances in challenging real-world conditions. A low-power, long-reach version of Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11ah standard, Wi-Fi HaLow offers more than 10x the range, 100x the coverage area, and 1000x the volume of traditional Wi-Fi technologies. Watch now.

The protocol’s unprecedented 3 km range is enabled by Morse Micro’s Wi-Fi CERTIFIED HaLow system-on-chip (SoC) solution, which offers unparalleled wireless capabilities for IoT applications. Wi-Fi HaLow overcomes the limitations of traditional Wi-Fi by operating in the sub-GHz spectrum on narrow frequency bands, enabling the technology to penetrate obstacles and provide unmatched performance, even in noisy environments crowded with numerous connected devices and cameras. Wi-Fi HaLow not only increases wireless range; it also extends battery life with its power-saving features.

“Our successful demo of Wi-Fi HaLow video call across three kilometers in a difficult, real-world urban environment is a major milestone for Wi-Fi connectivity, showcasing the wireless protocol’s incredible reach,” said Michael De Nil, co-founder and CEO of Morse Micro.

“Wi-Fi HaLow is a transformative technology that shatters the boundaries of today’s wireless connectivity. With its unparalleled range, exceptional low power consumption and superior throughput, Wi-Fi HaLow stands as the frontrunner in the IoT landscape. This is the future wireless connectivity, and it’s here today powered by Wi-Fi CERTIFIED HaLow technology.”

Traditional Wi-Fi protocols have long been the backbone of wireless connectivity, but the rapid growth of IoT applications for smart homes, building and industrial automation, and wireless infrastructure has exposed limitations in terms of range and power efficiency. Morse Micro recognized this challenge in 2016 and developed Wi-Fi HaLow to bridge the technological gaps. The momentum behind Wi-Fi HaLow is growing rapidly, with the Wi-Fi Alliance taking significant steps to promote the protocol’s connectivity benefits, extending the range of other existing Wi-Fi standards.

Morse Micro now stands at the forefront of Wi-Fi HaLow technology development. The company is sampling its Wi-Fi Alliance and FCC-certified MM6108 production silicon – the fastest, smallest, lowest power, and longest-range Wi-Fi HaLow SoC available in the market. Morse Micro has built an extensive ecosystem of module partners and ODMs and is seeing significant traction in infrastructure applications and IoT devices, including indoor and outdoor IP security cameras, dual-mode Wi-Fi access points and many other IoT products showcased by partner demos at CES 2024.

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Any business that welcomes visitors, guests or in-person customers will use a variety of methods to help optimize the time (and potential value) of anyone entering. For example, supermarkets will often routinely change around their shelving structure and product orientation so that you’re never truly comfortable knowing where everything is for long periods of time, meaning you’re more likely to come across other products on your way to a purchase.

Moreover, psychologists can also plan out what attractions you might be interested in first, or additional products may hang out around the checkout area for someone to quickly pick up and purchase when they need to. There’s a whole undercurrent of planning under the surface of any in-person business enterprise, and for that reason, it’s important to know how to leverage that might for your own.

If you’re a foot-trafficked business or even a non-profit charity like a museum, you may wonder how to utilize tech for such a robust outcome. In this post, we’ll discuss a few tips for achieving that and more:

Ensuring A Pleasant Ambience & Informational Guidance

Most businesses will have a speaker system for announcements or for music to play. In some cases, this kind of “soundtrack” can help either speed up or slow down your visitor approach. For example, when families visit a museum, it’s in the interest of that heritage organization to increase the time per visit because then they can justify better funding and more outreach. SiriusXM music for museums can be period-appropriate while also allowing for an educational setting to thrive.

However, in stores, gyms, and other areas with high footfall, energetic, pop, or even motivational music is commonly placed. This can provide the energy to help guests more readily get through their shopping or workout and then move on, increasing the spend per head and how quickly they spend. This principle can spread to many other decisions, but it allows for a confident outcome.

Synchronized Apps

You may be aware of displays that proudly showcase just how many free parking slots are visible in a public car parking space. This allows you to understand if your car would be welcome before entering.

In the same way, synchronized apps can help you check guest logins and present capacity to your customers. So for example, a gym app would track the number of card logins that day, address peak times, and also recommend to app users how many people are in the gym and how many spaces are left before all the equipment has been utilized. Over time, this can allow you to even out the visitor attendance to make sure more come during off-peak times, looking to beat the crowd. This provides the ebb and flow you’re most looking for, while also curating a healthy end result.

Integrating Point-of-Sale (POS) Analytics

Analytics such as spend per head, how certain customers spend, which products and brands sell out more quickly, how many sign up to additional offers presented by the checkout staff, and how many returns are processed are all essential information.

You can collect this by using POS systems that provide robust analytics and allow you to track that data from week to week, month to month. You can also assign sales goals to staff where appropriate, realistically in line with your peak times.

Implementing Queue Management Systems

Depending on the kind of business you run, queues may be a large factor in how you manage and process people. For example, the driving administration or post office will often have many people standing in a line for different reasons, and the time to attendance statistic needs to be reduced while still offering everyone the same level of value in service.

Queue management systems are integrative software tools that allow you to track how many people are in line and then open up additional lanes where appropriate. It also helps you understand when to pull staff from the shop floor to stand behind the checkout or service desk to keep the flow of people moving along. More AI-leveraged tools are released month on month that allow you to track peak times open queues when necessary, and try to reduce how long it takes to service people. A tool like this could be useful for your own enterprise, too.

With this advice, you’re certain to maximize your use of tech to improve your foot-tracked enterprise. Make sure to keep reviewing these measures and the results they yield, and iterate on them to customize efficiency for your business.

The post How Foot-Trafficked Business Use Tech To Manager Visitor Behavior appeared first on IoT Business News.

Edge processing is one of the biggest trends in IoT – and for a reason. Processing data close to where it’s generated enables greater speed and volume, while reducing transmission loads. It reduces network latency, boosts scalability and enhances security. It creates the opportunity for AI at the edge to take immediate action – such as automatically preventing a pipeline blowout or keeping a failing generator or pump from tearing itself apart.

Today, IoT applications are making only limited use of edge computing. In most cases, the device at the edge takes whatever data the sensors are sending it and pumps it out over the network. That’s a shame – especially when satellite is the optimal connectivity solution, as it so often is for remote or mobile applications. Wasting satellite bandwidth is never a winning proposition. When a sensor is paired with a satellite-enabled device, it enables smart IoT data management: decision-making at the edge to determine what data is relevant data to send over the network.

Edge data management opens and expands use cases for satellite IoT now and in the future

Four essentials for getting edge processing right

There are four essentials to getting edge processing right in a satellite IoT application: edge technology, AI, the right satellite connectivity and the cloud.

Edge Technology

Edge processing technology needs to strike a balance between two different requirements: providing enough processing power for applications and being inexpensive enough for mass deployment. The solution comes down to smart engineering of devices, from storage and power to sensor connectivity. Many satellite-based and multimode IoT devices are designed to monitor and manage unpowered assets far from electric lines. They need low power consumption, long-life batteries and, in some cases, solar power – and they can benefit from the low cost of today’s multi-megabit flash storage and BLE Low Power technology.

AI at the Edge and Core

In addition to physical design, software engineering can make a substantial difference. On the edge devices, it can put a stop to the “pump it out over the network” approach and, instead, prioritize data and package it efficiently for transmission, saving money on the recurring costs of transmission. The back end of the system is equally important. An efficient, easy-to-use management system for devices, users and business rules keeps the network from streaming unnecessary data and supporting inactive devices and users.

Satellite Connectivity

Satellite has a reputation for being costly, unreliable and, like the famed Starlink network, best used for multi-megabit service. None of that needs to be true. Networks designed for IoT and other small-data applications transmit short, efficient bursts of information, using satellites in low Earth orbit that cover just about any location with a view of the sky. Messages can be sent on a schedule and on AI decision-making at the edge that suits the application.

Cloud

IoT networks, especially serving remote locations, tend to be dynamic, with requirements changing as markets and conditions evolve. Cloud-based applications scale up or down rapidly for applications providing back-end configuration, user and device management, and data translation and analytics.

IoT on the Move

You can see these four essentials at work in the biggest single market vertical for IoT: transportation and logistics.

On any given day, more than 16 million trucks are on the road in North America, including nearly 4 million tractor-trailer big rigs that spend long periods beyond the reach of cellular. There is an average of 2 to 3 unpowered trailers for every one of those big rigs. So, trucking companies spend too much time simply locating trailers in their yard, on the road or at customer locations so they can be matched to trucks. Lack of good information on location causes them to waste money buying or leasing trailers to ensure on-time deliveries.

A low-cost, IoT transmitter on each trailer transforms these businesses. It periodically transmits a GPS location over satellite, along with any sensor data the trucking company wants. Solar-powered, it delivers years of use with little maintenance and has enough processing power to monitor and report on battery level, confirm that it remains attached, and manage data from sensors reporting, for example, whether the trailer door is open or closed. The data transmitted over satellite feeds a cloud-based dashboard that maps the location of each trailer and provides access to sensor data. For one company managing hundreds of trailers, real-time analysis of the GPS coordinates alone showed the company that it did not need 100 trailers it was renting or a new order for 40 more. Total savings exceeded $2 million in the first year.

Making the case for edge processing in satellite IoT comes down to value. It can deliver better latency, greater scalability, reduced transmission costs – but the real value is in the business or operational impact it has for companies on the receiving end of the data. This can far outweigh the cost of the added capability – by as much as the car in your driveway is outweighed by a big rig on the road.

The post Don’t Discount the Edge’s Valuable Role in Satellite IoT appeared first on IoT Business News.