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Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, is pleased to announce a major milestone for its satellite communication module, CC200A-LB, which has recently secured global certifications from leading authorities, including CE, FCC, IC, and RCM.

This confirms CC200A-LB’s compliance with satellite network standards across Europe, North America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

With a focus on cost-effectiveness and ultra-low latency, the CC200A-LB module delivers a reliable and uninterrupted global network connection. This makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications, including maritime, transportation, heavy equipment, agriculture, mining, oil and gas monitoring as well as other scenarios where cellular networks may be limited.

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

“We are thrilled to see the global approval of our satellite communication module. Its capability in delivering uninterrupted network coverage ensures continuous and cost-effective communication for managing remote and mobile assets anytime, anywhere.”

The CC200A-LB incorporates cutting-edge satellite IoT connectivity offered by ORBCOMM, utilizing the L-band of the Inmarsat GEO constellation. It features two-way communication, low latency, and global coverage. When paired with cellular modules, it enables distinctive dual-mode IoT applications, providing unparalleled reliability, redundancy and ubiquitous coverage. In scenarios with inadequate or disrupted cellular network coverage, IoT devices can seamlessly sustain communication through satellite connections.

The CC200A-LB is designed with a streamlined LCC+LGA package, measuring 37mm × 38mm × 3.35mm. Equipped with multi-constellation GNSS positioning, the module can identify the device’s location quickly and precisely. Its user-friendly AT command set facilitates effortless configuration and management.

The module can be purchased in isolation or with the appropriate Quectel antenna to help accelerate the time-to-market of customer devices.

Apart from the CC200A-LB, Quectel has diversified its portfolio by introducing a range of satellite communication modules. Among them, the CC660D-LS is compliant with 3GPP NTN R17 standards and features two-way communication, support for multiple frequency bands, low latency as well as low power consumption. The BG95-S5 and BG770A-SN modules are designed to support both satellite and cellular networks, providing ubiquitous coverage for IoT applications.

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The PCBA (Printed CircuitBoard Assembly) is the core of electronic devices, combining industry know-how and the assembly of electronic components, which is a pivotal process for device manufacturers in the early stage of product design. By offering the customized PCBA solutions to smart terminal devices such as POS (Point-of-Sale), PoC (Push-to-Talk over Cellular), wearable cameras and more, Fibocom can greatly simplify the manufacturing process, improve efficiency and reduce the time-to-market for industry customers.

Fibocom, a global leading provider of IoT (Internet of Things) wireless solutions and wireless communication modules, announces the fulfillment of its PCBA capability for industry customers in the field of smart payment, industrial handheld, connected AI camera, commercial display, intelligent service robotics, AI edge server, etc.

Encompassing hardware design, MD & ID evaluation, algorithm migration & integration, certification, and software application support, the comprehensive PCBA solution drastically expedites the commercialization of customers’ smart devices.

“Driven by the surge in digital transformation across industries, the demand for higher product quality, efficiency, time-to-market, cost-effectiveness, and software-hardware services is burgeoning,” said Ralph Zhao, VP of MC BU at Fibocom. “Leveraging Fibocom’s rich experience in the vertical markets and industry know-how accumulated for more than 24 years, the PCBA solutions are positioned to accelerate digitalization across industries with tailored, high-performance integration. We are confident in assisting our customers to win the market sectors in smart retail, PoC, and wearable cameras through a comprehensive of innovative solutions.”

Enabling Rich Functionalities for POS (Point-of-sale)

Smart payment terminals are evolving into highly integrated devices that adopt various exterior layouts and support rich payment methods such as contactless, QR codes, card payments, etc. Fibocom provides a tailor-made PCBA solution that enables reliable wireless connectivity for POS terminals and supports 720/1080PHD touchscreens with a powerful CPU integrated. In addition to the support of the Android operating system, it allows retailers to upgrade the software through the entire product life cycle and develop the industry applications continuously.

Enabling Robust Roaming and Multimedia Capabilities for PoC (Push-to-Talk over Cellular)

Addressing the requirements for PoC terminal devices, Fibocom offers a comprehensive PCBA solution to reduce the complexity for PoC manufacturers at the early stage of product design. Integrating the cellular capability, multimedia functions, communication protocols, operating systems, and GNSS into the PCBA at a compact size, significantly expedites the timeline of the IoT project, reduces development complexities, and achieves faster time-to-market.

Enabling HD Streaming for Wearable Cameras

The popularity of wearable devices has raised the standard of connectivity and audio-video streaming capabilities, Fibocom’s PCBA solution supports the global 4G/5G cellular roaming, along with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/NFC for short-distance communication. Additionally, the high-performance graphic engine supports there cording and playback of 4K/1080P video, multi-camera input and output, infrared night vision as well as H.264/H.265 decoding. Leveraging the reliability and scalability of wearable devices, the PCBA solution also provides flexible selections on data storage and peripheral interfaces. The solution can be widely deployed in inspection patrol, transportation, live broadcasting, etc.

The post Fibocom Propels Digitalization of Smart Industry Terminals with Customized PCBA Solutions appeared first on IoT Business News.

Highlights:

Leading edge solutions built around Globalstar IoT satellite technology are helping conservationists in Africa to monitor and protect near-extinct rhinoceros from poachers
Low-cost ST100 chipset is at the heart of wildlife tracking platform provided by specialist Globalstar Value Added Reseller Wintec Solutions
Satellite technology means tracking of free-roaming animals is ubiquitous and transmissions uninterrupted, even when beyond GSM mobile networks’ reach

Globalstar Europe Satellite Services Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., the next-generation international telecommunications infrastructure and technology provider, announced today that its IoT (internet of things) satellite technology is being used to protect multiple endangered species of wildlife in Africa.

Leading-edge satellite-enabled tracking devices incorporating Globalstar’s small and lightweight ST100 chipset are being used to monitor rhinoceros, part of a widespread concerted effort to protect these nearly-extinct wild animals from illegal poachers.

This is the most recent project carried out by Globalstar Value Added Reseller, Johannesburg-based Wintec Solutions, a specialist technology and solutions provider with extensive experience in animal tracking for wildlife conservation.

Rhinoceros are the subject of widespread illegal killing by poachers across Africa. Wintec Solutions deployed GSatSolar, the latest addition to Globalstar’s IoT satellite tracking solutions portfolio. GSatSolar is an innovative Sun-powered tracking device built around Globalstar’s economical ST100 satellite IoT transmitter. Low-cost and simple to integrate, GSatSolar is a small and rugged satellite IoT tracker ideal for wildlife monitoring. Rhinos are fitted with the device via ear tagging or collar. Other novel ways of deploying the devices are also being explored. The device is also suitable for livestock tracking.

Nature reserves in Africa are expansive, spanning as many as 20,000 hectares in remote bush regions. Their perimeter fencing is often breached by criminals and poachers attempting to gain access to, and kill, the animals within. Such reserves, which are home to as many as 200 free-ranging rhinos, typically are established in locations where GSM mobile signal does not exist. Only satellite communications can provide the always-on connectivity to enable uninterrupted monitoring of the animals.

Significant advantages of GSatSolar are its small size and light weight, so as not to irritate the animal, as well as its robust structure. Furthermore, its low cost makes the solution easily scalable for tracking large herds of wildlife and farm stock. “Its physical attributes make GSatSolar a game changer, and transform the possibilities for wildlife conservation and livestock management,” says Rene Winter, Director of Wintec Solutions.

Globalstar-enabled solutions are at the forefront of today’s conservation activities in Africa; Wintec Solutions is additionally playing a role in the preservation of other African species. Researchers at Giraffe Conservation Foundation are using the system to monitor giraffe migration, and for keeping safeguarding tabs on animals which have been reintroduced into the wild. “We are currently trialling GSatSolar ear tags on giraffe in Namibia. The first units were deployed in June this year and, while field trials are still ongoing, the data received so far are very promising. We’re looking forward to deploying more units in the future and testing them in different countries,” said Dr Courtney Marneweck, Science Data Coordinator at Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

Wintec Solutions is also deploying satellite technology and Globalstar-enabled animal tags in collaboration with veterinary authorities and research students for wild buffalo protection activities in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Buffalo migration is being monitored so conservationists and government authorities can understand and mitigate the potential spread of Bovine Tuberculosis. In another project, the application of Globalstar-enabled trackers is being tested on pangolins, yet another severely endangered species.

The tracking platform UI developed Wintec Solutions includes an informative mapping portal that tracks the animals’ individual and group movements. Monitoring the rhino, or other wildlife, also informs as to grazing habits, locations of the best nutrition, seasonal breeding habits, as well as the animals’ general health and well-being.

Winter said:

“Our wildlife preservation activities take place well beyond the reach of GSM mobile; Globalstar’s satellite network, with its ubiquitous reach and reliability, is a fundamental enabler in the operations being carried out to protect endangered species.”

“Globalstar created the ST100 transmitter to meet the widespread need for easy-to-integrate, low-cost and lightweight monitoring devices that leverage satellite technology and the Internet of Things,” commented Mark O’Connell, General Manager at Globalstar EMEA & APAC. “We are absolutely delighted that solutions developed through the inventiveness and commitment of our partner Wintec Solutions are now playing such a pivotal role in the vital wildlife conservation activities today taking place across Africa,” he added.

The post Globalstar Satellite IoT Technology is Helping to Safeguard Africa’s Rhinos and Other Endangered Species appeared first on IoT Business News.

A partnership between Solinftec, Wabash Heartland Innovation Network (WHIN) – and Still Waters Manufacturing combines the expertise of these three companies to manufacture the Solix robot, contributing to regional development in Indiana.

Solinftec, a global leader in artificial intelligence solutions and sustainable agricultural practices, strengthened its partnership with WHIN and expanded its manufacturing capacity in the United States through collaboration with Still Waters Manufacturing.

The production of the Solix robot in the WHIN region of Indiana strengthens Solinftec’s presence in the United States from the last quarter.

The collaboration and efforts of the companies will make robotic technology more accessible to American producers, leading to a significant reduction in herbicide use and promoting sustainable agriculture. “This partnership represents a significant milestone for the US agricultural industry, and it’s gratifying to see two companies from our network bringing innovation to our region. Collaboration among all parties was crucial to the success of this project,” says Johnny Park, CEO of WHIN.

The factory, with the capacity to produce up to 20 Solix robots per day, benefits from the experience of Jake Church, CEO of Still Waters Manufacturing. “There’s something truly special about building these robots in rural Indiana. They will come out of what used to be a school, where many farmers and livestock producers in this area received their primary education. This venture is an opportunity to ‘rewrite’ history. A dear friend of mine often says, ‘If you want to know the future, go build it,’” Church states. The business received an initial investment of over 2 million dollars from Solinftec for the next two harvests, ensuring continued annual growth.

The CEO of Still Waters Manufacturing, added:

“This will be the first agricultural robotics factory in the American Midwest.”

The team involved in Solix manufacturing will consist of workers living near the region served by Still Waters Manufacturing, with many of them being local farmers. “This work brings the community close, seeking to develop and innovate agriculture in the region with technology,” says Guilherme Guiné, Chief Operations Officer of Solinftec for North America.

The use of Solinftec solutions has already led to a reduction of up to 97% in herbicide volume on properties using the Solix robot in the United States. The key differentiator is that, through the collaboration of the three companies, the solutions will be adapted to the reality of the American Midwest.

The post The first robotics plant dedicated to agriculture to begin production in the American Midwest appeared first on IoT Business News.

The global installed base of active remote tank monitoring (RTM) solutions reached 7.7 million units at the end of 2022, according to a new research report from the IoT analyst firm Berg Insight.

Growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.0 percent, the active installed base is estimated to reach 23.5 million units worldwide in 2027. Berg Insight estimates that the European market accounted for more than 1.8 million active RTM systems at the end of 2022. The North American market is estimated to be larger than the European at around 3.2 million active units. The Asia-Pacific market is moreover estimated to represent an installed base of about 1.7 million RTM systems at the end of 2022. South America and Middle East & Africa are smaller markets having installed bases of 385,000 units and 539,000 units respectively.

There are more than 100 RTM solution vendors active on the market worldwide and this report covers 63 companies. Berg Insight ranks Otodata once again as the leading RTM solution provider in terms of the active installed base worldwide with an installed base of about 2.0 million RTM units. Otodata is based in Canada and primarily focuses on the fuel reseller segment in North America. Otodata has so far acquired 3 companies to boost its growth plans: Wise Telemetry in April 2021, Wireless Applications Corporation (WACnGO) in December 2021 and AIUT’s LPG branch in June 2022. Anova and SkyBitz (Ametek) were in second and third place having achieved installed bases of about 1.0 million units and 210,000 units respectively. Anova has done a string of acquisitions including Independent Technologies, Wikon, ISA – Intelligent Sensing Anywhere, iTank (Sierra Wireless) and Silicon Controls to become the second largest RTM solution vendor with more than 2,000 customers in 80 countries. SkyBitz is based in the US and most of its tanks under management can be found in North America and a few in Mexico and other countries. Tank Utility based in the US and German FoxInsights followed in fourth and fifth place and had installed bases of 130,000 and 125,000 tank monitoring systems respectively. Sensile Technologies, Dunraven Systems, Angus Energy, Kingspan and PowTechnology are also ranked among the largest providers with 70,000–100,000 units each.

Other RTM solution providers with installed bases of 22,000–50,000 RTM systems in active use at the end of 2022 include ATEK Access Technologies, Varec, Banner Engineering, FreeWave, GreenCityZen, Gasbot, Insite Platform Partners, SilentSoft, Tecson and Schmitt Industries.

Merger and acquisition activity on this market is just about to commence at the same time as new innovative companies enter the market. Anova and Otodata have been the most ambitious consolidators on the market so far with 5 and 3 acquisitions respectively.

Johan Fagerberg, Principal Analyst, Berg Insight, said:

“Additional companies have recently started to look at in-organic grow opportunities more actively including for instance Rochester Sensors that acquired Tekelek in Q2-2023 and Four Data that picked up the European business unit (excluding Switzerland) of Silentsoft in the same quarter”

Mr. Fagerberg anticipates that the market consolidation of the remote tank monitoring industry will accelerate in the next five years.

Download report brochure: The Global Remote Tank Monitoring Market

The post The installed base of connected tanks to reach 23.5 million in 2027 appeared first on IoT Business News.

In the labyrinth of technological innovation, the Internet of Things (IoT) stands out as a beacon of connectivity, weaving an intricate tapestry that spans industries and revolutionizes daily life. As a seasoned journalist entrenched in the IT sector, my objective is to unravel the dynamic landscape of IoT trends, all while maintaining the subtlety of my professional background.

Decoding the Dynamics: Evolutionary Trends Shaping the IoT Realm

1. Edge Computing’s Ascension to Prominence

The What: Traditionally, IoT devices relied on centralized cloud computing for data processing. However, the evolving landscape demands a paradigm shift, giving rise to the prominence of edge computing in Internet of Things app development. This decentralized approach involves processing data closer to the source, minimizing latency, and enhancing efficiency. The integration of edge computing is particularly beneficial for Internet of Things app development, as it ensures that data processing occurs in real-time, providing a seamless and responsive experience for users interacting with IoT applications.

The Why: In the realm of autonomous vehicles and smart manufacturing, where real-time data processing is paramount, edge computing emerges as a game-changer. The reduced lag in data transfer ensures quicker response times, a crucial factor for applications requiring split-second decision-making.

2. 5G Unleashing the Full Potential of IoT

The What: The deployment of 5G networks has emerged as a catalyst, propelling Internet of Things into a new era of possibilities. With increased bandwidth and lower latency, 5G facilitates high-speed data transfer, unlocking the potential for previously unthinkable IoT applications.

The Why: Industries ranging from healthcare to smart cities benefit from the capabilities of 5G. Whether it’s powering augmented reality applications in healthcare or optimizing urban infrastructure, the seamless connectivity provided by 5G is reshaping the IoT landscape.

3. Fortifying the IoT Fortress: Enhanced Security Measures

The What: As the number of connected devices proliferates, security concerns become more pronounced, especially in the realm of security testing services. The IoT industry is responding by fortifying its defenses, implementing robust security measures such as end-to-end encryption, secure boot processes, and frequent security updates. The incorporation of security testing services is pivotal in ensuring the resilience of IoT systems against potential vulnerabilities and cyber threats, providing comprehensive assessments to identify and address security gaps in the interconnected network of devices. This proactive approach underscores the industry’s commitment to delivering secure and reliable IoT solutions.

The Why: The rising threat of cyber attacks demands proactive measures. Strengthening security protocols is not only essential to safeguard against potential breaches but also to protect sensitive data traversing the vast network of interconnected devices.

4. AI and ML: The Brainpower Behind Smarter IoT Devices

The What: The infusion of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into the IoT ecosystem marks a significant evolutionary leap. These technologies empower IoT devices to analyze data, make predictions, and adapt their behavior over time, leading to a new era of intelligent connected devices.

The Why: From smart homes learning occupants’ preferences to industrial machines predicting maintenance needs, the integration of AI and ML amplifies the capabilities of IoT devices. This not only enhances efficiency but also opens doors to personalized user experiences across various applications.

5. Greening the IoT: Sustainability in Development

The What: As the world collectively embraces sustainability, the IoT industry is following suit. A growing focus on eco-friendly practices includes the use of energy-efficient devices, recyclable materials, and leveraging IoT for environmental monitoring and conservation efforts.

The Why: Reducing the carbon footprint of IoT devices aligns with broader environmental goals. Manufacturers embracing green practices not only contribute to a healthier planet but also position themselves as socially responsible entities in the eyes of consumers.

The Path Forward: Charting the Trajectory of IoT

As we peer into the future, the trajectory of Internet of Things continues to unfold with unprecedented potential. The amalgamation of edge computing, 5G connectivity, fortified security, AI-driven intelligence, and sustainability practices positions Internet of Things as a transformative force reshaping our digital landscape.

Conclusion: a Connected Tomorrow

In conclusion, the Internet of Things is not merely a technological phenomenon but a societal shift that transcends boundaries. The trends discussed here are not isolated developments; they converge to shape a connected, efficient, and sustainable future. As Internet of Things matures, the synergy between devices, networks, and data will redefine the very fabric of our existence.

FAQ

1. How does edge computing benefit IoT devices, and in what scenarios is it particularly crucial?
Edge computing minimizes latency by processing data closer to the source, making it crucial for applications demanding real-time data processing. Industries like autonomous vehicles and smart manufacturing benefit significantly from the reduced lag in data transfer, ensuring faster response times.

2. Why is 5G considered essential for the advancement of Internet of Things, and how does it impact specific industries?
The rollout of 5G networks provides increased bandwidth and lower latency, enabling devices to handle more data and perform complex tasks seamlessly. This is particularly impactful for industries such as healthcare, where 5G powers applications like augmented reality, optimizing patient care and diagnostics.

3. How is the Internet of Things industry addressing security concerns, and what measures are being implemented?
It is implementing robust security measures, including end-to-end encryption, secure boot processes, and frequent security updates. These measures are essential to safeguard against cyber threats and protect sensitive data as the number of connected devices continues to grow.

4. In what ways does the integration of AI and machine learning enhance the capabilities of IoT devices?
AI and machine learning empower smart devices to analyze data, make predictions, and adapt their behavior over time. This enhances the intelligence of devices, allowing for applications like personalized insights in healthcare and predictive maintenance in industrial settings.

5. Why is sustainability important in IoT development, and how do manufacturers embrace eco-friendly practices?
The shift towards sustainability in development involves adopting eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient devices, recyclable materials, and the use of IoT for environmental monitoring. This aligns with global sustainability goals and enhances the reputation of manufacturers as socially responsible entities.

The post The Unfolding Tapestry of IoT: A Deep Dive into Emerging Trends appeared first on IoT Business News.

The technological landscape is on the cusp of a revolution with advancements in quantum computing and semiconductor technology. Quantum computing promises to surpass the capabilities of classical computing, offering unprecedented processing power, while semiconductor technology continues to be the backbone of modern electronics.

This article explores the future trajectory of these two pivotal technologies and how their evolution might shape our world.

Quantum Computing: The Next Frontier

Quantum computing operates on the principles of quantum mechanics, utilizing qubits instead of classical bits. Unlike bits, which are binary, qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously, a phenomenon known as superposition. This, coupled with entanglement, another quantum feature, allows quantum computers to process vast amounts of data at speeds unattainable by traditional computers.

Advancements in Quantum Technology: Recent years have seen significant advancements in quantum computing, with companies like Google, IBM, and startups delving into quantum processor development. The goal is to achieve ‘quantum supremacy’, where quantum computers perform computations that are practically impossible for classical computers.

Quantum Algorithms and Applications: Quantum computing is particularly promising in fields requiring complex computation, such as cryptography, drug discovery, and climate modeling. Quantum algorithms, capable of solving specific problems faster than their classical counterparts, are under active development.

Semiconductor Technology: The Core of Electronics

Semiconductors, materials with electrical conductivity between conductors and insulators, are essential in modern electronics. Semiconductor technology has primarily followed Moore’s Law, predicting a doubling of transistors on a microchip every two years, leading to smaller, more powerful, and less expensive devices. As we delve deeper into this realm, it’s becoming crucial to buy capacitors and other essential electronic components that are quantum-ready.

Advancements in Semiconductor Manufacturing: The industry is moving towards smaller nanometer fabrication processes, with 5nm and 3nm chips already in production. This miniaturization allows for more transistors on a chip, enhancing performance and energy efficiency.

New Materials and Designs: Beyond silicon, materials like graphene and silicon carbide are being explored for their superior properties. Additionally, new chip architectures, such as 3D stacking, are being developed to overcome the limitations of traditional planar designs.

Convergence of Quantum Computing and Semiconductor Technology

The intersection of quantum computing and semiconductor technology is an area of intense research and investment.

Quantum Chips and Materials: Quantum computers require specialized quantum chips, often made from materials like superconducting circuits or trapped ions. As semiconductor technology advances, it paves the way for more efficient and scalable quantum chips.

Hybrid Systems: In the near term, hybrid systems combining classical semiconductor-based processors with quantum processors are likely to be prevalent. These systems can leverage the strengths of both technologies for specific applications.

Challenges and Opportunities

Both fields face significant challenges but also present immense opportunities.

Quantum Computing Challenges: Quantum computing is still in its nascent stages, grappling with issues like qubit stability (coherence), error rates, and scalability.

Semiconductor Challenges: For semiconductor technology, continued miniaturization poses physical and technical challenges, including heat dissipation and quantum tunneling at extremely small scales.

Opportunities for Synergy: Research in both fields can benefit each other. Advances in semiconductor technology could lead to more stable and scalable quantum computers, while quantum computing could potentially solve complex problems in semiconductor design and materials science.

The Future Outlook

The future of quantum computing and semiconductor technology is brimming with possibilities.

Quantum Computing: As quantum computing matures, it is expected to have a transformative impact across various sectors, potentially solving problems that are currently intractable.

Semiconductor Technology: The future of semiconductor technology lies in not just continuing miniaturization but also in exploring new materials and architectures to keep pace with the growing demand for computing power.

Collaborative Innovations: Collaborations between academia, industry, and government agencies are crucial for driving innovations in both fields. Such collaborations can accelerate research, development, and the eventual commercialization of these technologies.

Conclusion

The future of quantum computing and semiconductor technology is an exciting and dynamic field, poised to redefine the technological landscape. While challenges remain, the potential for groundbreaking advancements and applications is vast. As these technologies evolve, they will likely open up new horizons in computing, impacting a wide range of fields from material science to artificial intelligence and beyond. The journey towards this future is an interplay of innovation, collaboration, and a continuous quest for pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

The post Exploring the Future of Quantum Computing and Semiconductor Technology appeared first on IoT Business News.

The number of active fleet management systems deployed in commercial vehicle fleets in Europe was 14.8 million at the end of 2022, according to a new research report from the IoT analyst firm Berg Insight.

Growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.4 percent, this number is expected to reach 26.5 million by 2027. The top-38 vendors have today more than 100,000 active units in Europe.

Berg Insight ranks Targa Telematics as the largest player in terms of active installed base with around 710,000 units at year-end 2022. Weebfleet’s subscriber base has grown both organically and by acquisitions during the past years and the company holds the position as the second largest provider of fleet management solutions on the European market and reached an installed base of about 680,000 units. Verizon Connect is in third place and had achieved an installed base of an estimated 490,000 units at the year-end. Calamp and Radius Telematics follow and have reached 400,000 units and 382,000 units respectively. Scania, ABAX, Gurtam, Bornemann and AddSecure Smart Transport are also ranked among the ten largest providers with 250,000–380,000 units each. Some notable players just outside of the top ten list are MICHELIN Connected Fleet, Geotab, Transics, Quartix, Eurowag Telematics, Viasat, Linqo, Microlise, Daimler Truck, Océan (Orange), Volvo, Macnil, GSGroup, RAM Tracking, MAN, Cartrack, Fleet Complete, Trimble, Optimum Automotive, Shiftmove, AROBS Transilvania Software, Inseego, Infobric Fleet and Mapon. The HCV manufacturers are now growing their subscriber bases considerably thanks to standard line fitment of fleet management solutions. Dynafleet by Volvo, FleetBoard by Daimler Truck and Scania Fleet Management are the most successful with active subscriber bases of 162,000 units, 170,000 units and 379,000 units in Europe respectively at the end of 2022.

The consolidation trend on this market continued in 2023.

Johan Fagerberg, Principal Analyst, said:

“Seven mergers and acquisitions have taken place so far this year among the vendors of fleet management systems in Europe”

In January, Coyote became majority owner of Ubiwan (51 percent). After the change in ownership, the fleet management business of Coyote has now become part of the Ubiwan business. In the same month, Vimcar and Avrios were acquired by Battery Ventures and consequently merged, resulting in a new company called Shiftmove. In February, private equity firm Idico acquired a majority stake in Simpliciti. In May, Targa Telematics acquired Viasat Group. The new larger group will have offices in eight key European countries: Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, the UK, Belgium, Poland and Romania. Mapon acquired CarCops based in Estonia in the same month which will expand the business in the country considerably. Addsecure Smart Transport acquired in October the Clifford Group which includes Traxgo, a Belgium-based company offering systems for tracking of vehicles, machines and equipment. Finally, Powerfleet and MiX Telematics announced in October an agreement to form a combined business which will be branded as Powerfleet. The transaction is expected to close in Q1-2024. Mr. Fagerberg anticipates that the market consolidation of the still overcrowded industry will continue in 2024.

Download report brochure: Fleet Management in Europe

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Berg Insight, the leading IoT market research provider, has in a new market research project found that the global installed base of active construction equipment (CE) OEM telematics systems reached 6.2 million units in 2022.

Growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.0 percent, the active installed base is forecasted to reach 11.0 million units worldwide in 2027. This includes all CE telematics systems marketed by construction equipment OEMs, either developed in-house or provided by the CE manufacturers in partnership with third-party telematics players.

The European market accounted for around 0.9 million active construction equipment OEM telematics systems at the end of 2022. The North American market is estimated to be somewhat larger than the European. The Rest of World moreover represents more than half of the global installed base of CE telematics systems provided by construction equipment OEMs.

“Most major construction equipment OEMs have introduced telematics offerings for their customers either independently or in collaboration with telematics partners”, said Rickard Andersson, Principal Analyst, Berg Insight.

OEM telematics systems are today commonly factory-installed as standard at least for heavier machines and increasingly also for compact equipment.

“Berg Insight ranks Caterpillar as the clear leader in terms of the number of construction equipment OEM telematics systems deployed worldwide”, continued Mr. Andersson.

He adds that Caterpillar – which is also by far the leading construction equipment manufacturer by market share – has well over 1 million connected assets in the construction equipment segment specifically. Based in the US, Caterpillar’s largest markets for its telematics offerings are North America and Europe.

The runners-up are SANY and Komatsu based in China and Japan respectively, both major players on the respective domestic markets. Komatsu also has relatively large shares of its telematics units in China, North America and Europe.

“Other major players with several hundred thousand active CE telematics units include Sweden-based Volvo Construction Equipment, XCMG in China, JCB headquartered in the UK and Japan-based Hitachi Construction Machinery”, said Mr. Andersson. Deere & Company, HD Hyundai and Doosan Bobcat are also estimated to have reached the milestone of 100,000 units.

“Additional players having installed bases of construction equipment telematics units in the tens of thousands include Liebherr, Terex, JLG Industries, CNH Industrial and Tadano”, concluded Mr. Andersson.

Download report brochure: The Global Construction Equipment OEM Telematics Market

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SoftBank Corp., a telecommunications and IT operator headquartered in Tokyo, and Cubic Telecom Ltd., a leading global provider of software-defined connected vehicle1 solutions headquartered in Dublin, today announced they signed a definitive agreement whereby SoftBank will invest approximately €473 million2 in Cubic Telecom for a 51.0% equity stake3 in the company, at a valuation of over 900 million EUR.

With this investment, SoftBank and Cubic Telecom will form a strategic global partnership to pioneer the future of software-defined connected vehicles and other high-value Internet-of-Things (IoT) assets4 by harnessing the power of global connectivity platforms. Cubic Telecom is a leading global provider of connectivity solutions to automotive, transportation and agriculture original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and according to McKinsey & Company5, 95% of new vehicles sold globally will be connected by 2030, and connected car use cases alone could deliver 250 billion USD to 400 billion USD in annual incremental value for the ecosystem, with Cubic Telecom poised to capture a leading share of this rapidly growing market.

After the investment closes, Barry Napier will continue to lead Cubic Telecom as CEO and Board Member, and Daichi Nozaki, SoftBank’s Senior Vice President responsible for its global business, and two other SoftBank appointees will join Cubic Telecom’s Board. Three Board seats will continue to be held by Cubic Telecom’s existing shareholders, including CARIAD (Volkswagen Group) and Qualcomm, and with the close of the investment, Cubic Telecom will become a consolidated subsidiary of SoftBank.

Cubic Telecom’s Platform for Application & Connectivity Enablement (PACE) is a testament to the shift towards software-defined solutions and away from the legacy of hardware. The platform allows OEMs to monitor, manage and update many aspects of a vehicle or device in real-time, globally, via mobile connectivity – meaning vehicles can be tailored to the requirements of a country or region while complying with different regulatory mandates. Vehicles and devices can receive new features and functionality over-the-air (OTA) throughout their lifetime, which improves performance, safety, comfort and value to ensure the best user experience. Cubic Telecom has grown rapidly since launching its industry-first connectivity platform in 2016, and through agreements with more than 90 mobile network operators (MNOs), the company currently connects more than 17 million vehicles in over 190 countries and regions, adding 450,000 new vehicles a month, which is expected to increase exponentially over the next 5 years.

Junichi Miyakawa, President & CEO of SoftBank Corp., commented, “In line with our ‘Beyond Japan’ strategic growth initiative, we are extremely pleased to be teaming up with Cubic Telecom to make a full-fledged entry into the fast-growing market for high-value IoT asset connectivity. With its global leadership position, we are convinced Cubic Telecom is the best partner for this opportunity, and we look forward to building connectivity platforms for next-generation social infrastructure.”

“Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone for our team and stakeholders, and we’re excited to partner with SoftBank to pioneer the future of software-defined connectivity,” said Barry Napier, CEO at Cubic Telecom.

“The focus on software rather than hardware means manufacturers can increase the value of a vehicle or device by adding new functionality, over-the-air, which will improve safety, comfort and performance. This, alongside the opportunity AI presents, will open up new collaborations and business models. The opportunities ahead of us are endless.”

Cubic Telecom enables the world’s major automotive, transportation and agriculture OEMs to accelerate digital transformation and better leverage software-defined technologies. The company is also developing cutting-edge services that leverage its platform’s powerful analytics, and as cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) connectivity continues to be transformative, the partnership between SoftBank and Cubic Telecom will play a leading global role in developing new services and accelerating innovation.

While SoftBank has been providing global IoT connectivity services, mainly in Asia-Pacific markets, in this new strategic partnership with industry leader Cubic Telecom, SoftBank will be able to make a full-fledged entry into the rapidly growing IoT markets for connected cars and software-defined vehicles, giving it access to new revenue generating opportunities. By collaborating with SoftBank, which has an extensive customer base in Japan and other Asia-Pacific countries and regions, Cubic Telecom will gain access to new sales channels to further build on its market leadership position. SoftBank and Cubic Telecom will also explore ways to generate synergies and develop new services, such as utilizing satellite and stratospheric-based Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN)-based solutions that provide seamless connectivity to vehicles and IoT devices in areas that cannot be reached by traditional ground-based networks.

The investment is subject to regulatory approvals in various jurisdictions, and other customary closing conditions, and is expected to close in the first half of 2024.

1 Software-defined connected vehicle: Software-defined connected vehicle is a term that describes a vehicle whose features and functions are primarily enabled through software connected to the Internet. Cubic Telecom’s connectivity platform is embedded in vehicles at the point of manufacture, enabling OEMs to leverage software-defined technologies.
2 Approximately 74.7 billion JPY, converted at 1 EUR = 158.0 JPY.
3 After dilution.
4 Other high-value IoT assets include motorcycles, heavy goods vehicles, commercial fleets, agriculture vehicles, heavy machinery and drones.
5 Source: “Unlocking the full life-cycle value from connected-car data,” McKinsey & Company, February 11, 2021.

The post SoftBank Corp. Invests in Cubic Telecom to Pioneer the Future of Software-Defined Connected Vehicles and IoT Assets Globally appeared first on IoT Business News.

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