The IoT is constantly evolving.

According to Giesecke+Devrient (G+D), several trends are emerging: the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), edge computing and blockchain, standardization for more efficient management of IoT devices and the use of IoT to achieve sustainability goals.

The number of IoT devices is growing rapidly and IoT applications are increasingly being used in a wide range of areas such as transportation and logistics, agriculture, energy management, manufacturing and smart city concepts. However, there are still some limitations and challenges when it comes to implementing IoT scenarios. However, new developments will accelerate and simplify the further introduction of IoT. G+D sees five key trends in particular that will contribute to the secure and expanded use of IoT.

1. AI and machine learning (ML) lead to intelligent IoT systems

AI and ML are modernizing almost everything, including the IoT. By analyzing large amounts of data, AI is improving IoT applications in areas such as predictive maintenance and energy management. Combining the analytical capabilities of AI with the data collection and monitoring capabilities of IoT creates an ecosystem where operational insights are gathered more efficiently. The result is smarter, more responsive IoT systems.

However, there is one important point to bear in mind when integrating AI. AI relies heavily on accurate, validated and non-manipulated data to learn, make decisions or provide recommendations. This means that data integrity, based on the use of trusted and authentic data sources, is crucial to build trust in IoT AI ecosystems.

2. Edge computing improves IoT performance

Edge computing allows data to be processed or at least pre-processed closer to the source. This also reduces the amount of data that must be sent to a central data center in the automotive sector, for example. Edge computing significantly reduces latency, which is important for real-time applications such as industrial automation in manufacturing. The expansion of 5G networks will further improve communication between these devices and enable faster and more efficient data processing. Furthermore, the integration of AI and ML with edge computing is also expected to increase in the future, enabling edge devices to make complex decisions independently.

3. Blockchain increases IoT security

As IoT devices increasingly handle sensitive data and its integrity, the role of blockchain in strengthening IoT security is becoming increasingly important. The decentralized nature of blockchain, with the ability to ensure the authenticity and security of data transactions across the network, provides enhanced data integrity. Blockchain can therefore become an important component in protecting against the growing cybersecurity threats in the IoT landscape.

4. SGP.32 simplifies the management of IoT devices

SGP.32 is a new specification published by the GSMA in May 2023 for remote SIM provisioning. As an example, there will be no need for additional connections via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth when commissioning an IoT device. This simplifies both the hardware of the device and logistical processes. For example, solutions such as the AirOn360® IoT Suite from G+D can be used to centrally manage the connectivity of entire device fleets via SGP.32. Instead of the SMS-based communication of the predecessor specification SGP.02, SGP.32 uses a faster and more reliable IP-based protocol. The required SIM login data and settings can be sent directly over-the-air (OTA) to the devices. This makes it much easier to load, activate and manage the SIM profiles of IoT devices. They can thus be managed more efficiently and flexibly over the entire life cycle. The new specification also promises a drastic reduction in operating costs and rapid scalability.

5. IoT contributes to sustainability

Lastly, IoT will play a central role in promoting sustainability in various sectors. Modern, energy-efficient sensors combined with AI optimize resource management by enabling precise monitoring and control. The adoption of smart systems already underway in areas such as energy management and waste reduction are evidence of the growing influence of IoT in creating a more sustainable future. As the world struggles with environmental issues, the integration of IoT is becoming increasingly important, marking a new era where technology and ecology work in harmony.

Dr. Philipp Schulte, CEO of G+D Mobile Security, explains:

“The future of IoT connectivity will be shaped by significant technological advances, the integration of AI and edge computing, ongoing interoperability efforts and the transformative impact of 5G.”

“These developments will enhance the capabilities of IoT systems and make them more efficient, reliable and versatile, opening up new opportunities and driving innovation in various areas.”

“As a leading IoT solution provider, G+D will continue to actively support this development in close cooperation with mobile network operators, automotive OEMs and manufacturers of IoT devices, chips and modules, as well as other technology and service providers.”

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The number of private 5G connections is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 65.4% until 2030 and comprise 13% of the total 5G IoT connections globally by then, according to IoT Analytics’ latest “5G IoT & Private 5G Market Report 2024–2030.”

Private 5G connections: Despite its smaller share compared to public 5G, private 5G is projected to grow from 1.28 million connections in 2023 to nearly 107 million by 2030. This growth is driven by its distinct advantages in security and control, making it attractive to sectors like healthcare and non-industrial facilities.

Key use cases and regional growth: The report identifies 5 key private 5G use cases, including remote control of assets, facility connectivity, logistics automation, camera-based surveillance, and AR-based inspections. China and Europe are highlighted as key regions for private 5G growth.

Key insights:

There were 1.28 million private 5G IoT connections globally in 2023—5% of the 25.6 million 5G IoT connections—according to the 367-page 5G IoT & Private 5G Market Report 2024–2030.
The report forecasts private 5G connections to grow at a CAGR of 65.4% until 2030 and comprise 13% of the total 5G IoT connections globally by then.
China and Europe are regional growth areas for private 5G through 2030, with non-industrial facilities and campuses, such as ports and office buildings, fueling its growth.
Among 15 use cases for 5G IoT in general identified in the report, IoT Analytics identified the top 5 private 5G use cases: 1) remote control of assets, 2) facility or campus connectivity and coverage, 3) logistics automation using AGVs and AMRs, 4) camera-based facility surveillance, and 5) facility or asset inspection using AR glasses.

Select quotes:

Satyajit Sinha, Principal Analyst at IoT Analytics, comments that “China’s strategic approach to 5G, encompassing both industrial and non-industrial applications, has propelled its global leadership. A strong hardware ecosystem and government backing have accelerated deployment. Meanwhile, the US and Europe face hurdles in industrial adoption, primarily due to high capital expenditures and a shortage of dedicated industrial 5G devices/sensors. As the availability of these devices improves, we anticipate a more rapid global expansion of private 5G networks across diverse industries.”

5G IoT market overview

25.6 million 5G IoT connections worldwide. According to the 367-page 5G IoT & Private 5G Market Report 2024–2030 (published June 2024), global cellular IoT connections surpassed 3.5 billion in 2023, with 5G IoT connections accounting for 0.7% at 25.6 million. IoT Analytics forecasts the number of 5G IoT connections to grow at a CAGR of 59% from 2024 to 2030, reaching over 800 million connections. In comparison, the overall cellular IoT connectivity market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15% during the same period.

Public 5G holds dominant share of global 5G IoT connections. In 2023, public 5G made up 95% of global 5G IoT connections. Looking ahead, IoT Analytics projects public 5G to maintain its lion’s share while growing at a CAGR of 58% until 2030 due to its continued rollout worldwide.

Note: In April 2024, IoT Analytics noted that job postings seeking 5G skills were on the rise, adding support that the 5G market is poised to experience growth as companies seek to integrate it into their operations or offerings.

Private 5G IoT market: Today and outlook

The 5G IoT & Private 5G Market Report classifies 3 components of the private 5G market: network infrastructure, managed services, and management and orchestration software. Further, the report classifies 3 market industries: non-industrial entities, industrial and manufacturing, and others.

Private 5G to maintain significantly small share of total 5G IoT connections amid strong growth. In 2023, there were 1.28 million private 5G connections, making up 5% of the 5G IoT connections share. Though vastly smaller than its public counterpart, private 5G connections are projected to grow to 10%, or 5.15 million, of total 5G IoT connections in 2024. From there, IoT Analytics forecasts the number of these private connections to grow at a CAGR of 65.4% until 2030 and reach 13% of overall 5G IoT connections, or nearly 107 million. Fueling private 5G’s projected growth are its distinct advantages in terms of security and control, which are attractive to segments like healthcare and non-industrial facilities and campuses with specialized environments, such as ports and stadiums.

China leads in private 5G deployments. In May 2022, China—an early adopter of the technology—reported over 20,000 deployments nationwide, including over 7,000 factories and 691 mines. China’s push for digital transformation and establishing new business models to drive wider private 5G usage fueled the adoption of these use cases.

Europe preparing for adoption growth. Europe, for its part, appears to be setting the stage for private 5G adoption growth. According to the report, since the publication of 3GPP Release 15 in late 2017—which covered the concept of private networks—17 countries have established frequencies for private 5G, an action traditionally reserved for mobile network operators (MNOs). As of May 2024, 9 of those were within Europe.

List of European countries with dedicated private 5G frequencies: Belgium, Croatia, Finland, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, The United Kingdom

Notable 5G rollouts at Airbus, Shanxi Coking Coal Group, Tesla, and the city of Paris. The following are 3 Europe-based and 1 China-based examples of private 5G deployments:

Example 1: Airbus. Europe-based aerospace manufacturer Airbus has deployed private 5G networks at their sites across Europe in partnership with Sweden-based telecommunications technology provider Ericsson. In Hamburg, Germany, Airbus’s private network covers its 3.6 km2 campus using only 21 outdoor and 42 indoor antennas, compared to the 2,100 Wi-Fi access points traditionally needed for extended, reliable coverage. This enabled better coverage for numerous end-point devices, even through the metallic walls of aircraft manufactured there.

Example 2: Shanxi Coking Coal Group. In 2022, Shanxi Coking Coal Group, a China-based mining company, deployed private 5G to monitor conveyor belts and underground mining operations. Seeking uninterrupted operations and increased worker safety, the company deployed 50 4K cameras and numerous other sensors to monitor and manage its mining operators. This decreased the mine workforce to 65, decreased complex cabling, and increased monitoring of numerous operational elements. For this project, Shanxi Coking Coal Group partnered with Huawei, a China-based information and communications technology manufacturer, and China Unicom, a China-based MNO.

Example 3: Tesla. In May 2024, Tesla, a US-based multinational electric car manufacturer, revealed that it had deployed its first private 5G network in its Berlin, Germany, factory. Tesla chose this option to expand indoor and outdoor coverage at the plant to support numerous applications, including wirelessly updating hundreds of cars and automating logistics within the premises. Asad Khan, Research Director for 5G and Wireless Networks at SNS Telecom & IT, stated that the deployment “helped the electric vehicle manufacturer to overcome up to 90 percent of overcycle issues for a particular process in the plant’s [general assembly] shop.”

Example 4: Paris Olympics. In July 2024, the Paris Olympics provided viewers around the world with coverage of its elaborate opening ceremony on the Seine River. Covering 6km of waterway for the ceremony was no easy feat, especially with large, bulky cameras. The organizers tasked France-based mobile carrier Orange to provide the necessary infrastructure and services for the Olympics, including the opening. Ceremony coordinators installed Samsung S24 smartphones on 85 boats to capture the opening ceremony and water events, leveraging Orange’s fully private 5G network with dedicated infrastructure and bandwidth to handle the low latency needs of live streaming.

Majority of private 5G spending goes into purchasing infrastructure. In 2023, 55% of corporate spending on private 5G was on network infrastructure, while 26% was spent on managed services and 19% on management/orchestration software. By 2030, IoT Analytics forecasts companies to shift most of their private network spending toward managed services and management/orchestration software.

Additional insights from the 5G IoT & Private 5G Market Report 2024–2030. The Competitive Landscape chapter of the report delves into over 70 key 5G vendors. The top 5G network infrastructure market player—for both private and public 5G IoT—is China-based Huawei, with 25.4% overall market share. However, given the restrictions on using Huawei equipment imposed by several countries, other vendors remain quite competitive.

Non-industrial facilities and campuses are the main drivers of private 5G market growth. In 2023, non-industrial facilities and campuses, like ports, stadiums, commercial and government office buildings, warehouses, and airports, comprised 75% of the global private 5G market, while industrial and manufacturing sites, like factories and mines, held 23%. By 2030, the non-industrial segment is forecasted to hold a supermajority share at 71% as the industrial and manufacturing segment grows to 28%.

Top 5 private 5G use cases

The 5G IoT and Private 5G Market Report 2024–2030 shares 15 use cases for 5G IoT identified from 121 case studies, which are provided in an Excel file accompanying the report. Below are the top 5 private 5G use cases based on the number of projects identified for each use case, and among those, the higher importance or role of private 5G in those use cases.

1. Remote control of assets

Private 5G’s speed enables real-time communications between remote operators and assets. The low latency and high bandwidth of 5G support seamless communication between remote operators and assets, ensuring timely and precise operations control. Specifically, private 5G facilitates the integration of haptic controls and video streaming for enhanced performance in remote asset operations. The following image illustrates a remote-control system for a mobile machine (asset) using haptic feedback and video. The controller gives the operator tactile feedback and precise control (with sub-millimeter resolution).

Examples of remote control of assets with private 5G:

In Qatar, Hamad Port deployed private 5G for various port applications, including remote control over cranes and rubber-tired gantry operations to improve productivity.
In Sweden, mining and infrastructure equipment manufacturer Epiroc partnered with Ericsson to deliver private 5G solutions to help mining companies automate and digitalize their operations.

2. Facility or campus connectivity and coverage

Private 5G provides organizations with dedicated, efficient connectivity at their sites. The fast data rates and ultra-low latency of private 5G enable smooth operations at facilities or campuses (e.g., for remote machinery control or campus-wide monitoring systems), making them ideal for connectivity and coverage in these areas. Additionally, these private networks offer enhanced video streaming capabilities, making high-quality video conferencing and content sharing much smoother for facility operations.

Examples of facility or campus connectivity and coverage with private 5G:

In Germany, Lufthansa Technik, a Germany-based aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services company, piloted private 5G at its Hamburg aircraft engine overhaul site in 2020 to reliably use high-resolution video streams when inspecting engine parts. When travel restrictions began due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this use case proved to be business-critical, as the high speeds and reliability of this private network technology enabled Lufthansa Technik to stream video inspections to its customers who could not visit the site.
In the UK, Ferrovial S.E., a Spain-based multinational infrastructure developer, deployed the UK’s first private 5G standalone network at the Silvertown Tunnel project. Ferrovial partnered with Belgium-based cable broadband services provider Telenet N.V. and Finnish-based multinational telecommunications technology provider Nokia for this project.

3. Logistics automation using AGVs and AMRs

AGVs and AMRs rely on private 5G for secure, reliable connectivity and guidance. By their nature, AGVs and AMRs are ideal use cases for private 5G since their operations are constrained within a facility or campus and need secure, reliable connectivity. The private network technology enables AGVs and AMRs to navigate and operate autonomously by providing seamless, real-time data transmission, crucial for collision avoidance, path planning, and coordination among multiple robots. These vehicles and robots are mostly found in the logistics and warehousing, manufacturing, and port industries.

Examples of AGV and AMR use cases with private 5G:

In Brazil, Nestlé, a Switzerland-based multinational food and beverage company, partnered with Brazilian telecommunications company Embratel to install private 5G at Nestlé’s facilities for numerous use cases, including deploying AGVs to improve productivity.
In the US, multinational professional services firm Deloitte partnered with Version, a US-based telecommunications company, to build The Smart Factory @ Wichita, an immersive experience center designed to demonstrate and advance the concept of smart factories by leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies. Verizon deployed a private 5G network at the site, which, among other use cases, enabled the orchestration and management of AGVs and AMRs for moving materials across the plant.

4. Camera-based facility surveillance

Private 5G connects camera networks for operational and security awareness. Monitoring operations for security, safety, and awareness using high-resolution wireless cameras requires low latency and a reliable connection, which 5G generally delivers. The private network helps to secure the video stream and ensure public network traffic does not interfere with stream quality. These cameras can be paired with AI to perform automated, repetitive visual inspection tasks with high precision and accuracy, enabling consistency and defect detection with reduced labor. Surveillance cameras can also be used for human and even face detection for access control and alerts.

Examples of camera-based facility surveillance with private 5G:

In Indonesia, PT Freeport Indonesia, an Indonesia-based multinational mining services company, deployed an underground private 5G solution to monitor operations and conditions for increased efficiency and worker safety. This project was done in partnership with Indonesia-based telecommunications company Telkomsel.
In Spain, the Port of Barcelona partnered with Spanish telecommunications group MasOrange to deploy a private 5G network to enhance its operations, including bringing over 400 closed-circuit TV cameras together to maintain awareness of port security and operations.

5. Facility or asset inspection using AR glasses

Private 5G powers operational AR applications. AR glasses overlay digital information onto the real world, enhancing it with virtual elements (e.g., graphics, sound, and data). Private 5G supports this by delivering high-bandwidth applications and data, enabling complex interactions and immediate feedback essential for an immersive experience for facility and asset inspection with real-time data for feedback and guidance.

Examples of facility or asset inspection using AR or VR for an immersive user experience with private 5G:

In France, steel producer ArcelorMittal—in partnership with Orange and Ericsson—deployed a private 5G network at its Dunkerque (Dunkirk) steel facility to enable AR capabilities for inspection and safety purposes.
In Singapore, Zuellig Pharma, a healthcare solutions provider, implemented an AR-based stock picking and inventory management proof of concept system to assist with warehouse operations. Zuellig Pharma partnered with Ireland-based professional services company Accenture and Singapore-based communications services provider Singtel to create this “5G warehouse” proof of concept.

Additional insights from the 5G IoT & Private 5G Market Report 2024–2030

For private 5G, one notable trend is that new compact and affordable solutions are emerging. These are making it possible for small businesses and industrial facilities to take advantage of the benefits of 5G without the high cost and complexity of traditional cellular networks.

Example

In February 2023, Vodafone unveiled an industry-first concept for a miniature 5G base station aimed at enabling small businesses and households to build affordable and portable private 5G mobile networks in the future. The miniature 5G base station is based on the Raspberry Pi 4, using a single-board computer with a small, 5G-compatible software-defined radio (SDR) board developed by UK specialists Lime Microsystems.

Vodafone plans to target small and medium-sized businesses and private households with this product, allowing customers to establish their private network in public locations.

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In an increasingly connected world, smart meters are revolutionizing energy management but also face growing cybersecurity threats.

In this interview, Jose Sanchez, Senior Director PM, IoT Connectivity & Services at Telit Cinterion, discusses the evolving risks and how the industry is adapting with advanced security measures and IoT solutions to protect critical infrastructure.

IoT Business News: Like so many connected devices today, smart meters offer an array of benefits but also pose serious cybersecurity risks. What are some of those risks?

Jose Sanchez (Telit Cinterion): Smart meters are essential to the smart grid, allowing utilities and smart grid managers to improve service and efficiency. However, smart grids (smart meters specifically) are universally recognized as critical infrastructure, and thus prime targets for malicious actors. Cyberattacks, in general, are growing worldwide, with attacks against critical infrastructure growing the fastest. Since 2018, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned of rapid growth in cyberattacks in the energy sector, with critical infrastructure, including gas, water and especially power utilities, being favorite targets for malicious cyber activity.

Sources of cyber-attacks are diverse and evolving, and the impact of these attacks against critical infrastructure can be particularly damaging due to the ripple effect on society, ranging from the theft of personal user data to bringing down utilities’ critical distribution/utilization system components or even causing physical damage to people and properties. Various cyber incidents have been made public in the past few years, such as the Colonial Oil Pipeline attack, the Israeli water system attack and the Triton malware attack, each causing millions in damages. North American Electric Reliability Corporation estimates that the grid’s virtual and physical “weak spots” (points in software or hardware susceptible to cyber criminals) grew from 21-22k in 2022 to 23-24k in 2024.

The attack vectors of smart meters are varied but typically involve physical or remote access to the device through a remote or local interface. Vulnerabilities can be present in the firmware, network interfaces, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), utility applications or the hardware architecture itself. The communication link between the meter and the Head-End System (HES) is another potential weak spot. For example, an attacker might use a network interface to remotely access metrology data stored in the smart meter, modify the metrology data on its path to the HES, or even control devices in the network. These attacks can affect meter-related functions such as metrology data, tariff management, remote enablement or disablement of supply and home appliances, etc.

How can smart meter manufacturers best address these security risks?

As attacks evolve and refine, all actors involved in the smart grid ecosystem must implement processes to ensure continuous monitoring of security threats and the safety of smart metering operations. An ideal security strategy combines technology, processes and people to minimize evolving security risks throughout the lifetime of a product or service. While there is no such thing as 100% security, following “security-by-design” principles and the CIA model (a well-designed system that protects the confidentiality and integrity of data and ensures system availability) will help reduce cyber-security risks.

Smart meter manufacturers are responsible for securing their products and complying with evolving regulations. Performing a security assessment or audit is usually the first step toward designing a secure end-to-end metering system. Likewise, smart meter manufacturers must analyze supply chain processes to determine if devices are secure and do not expose data. Manufacturers must also identify who manages connectivity configuration – specifically, who can activate or deactivate a device’s SIM card.

What role do IoT module suppliers like Telit Cinterion play in ensuring smart meter security?

As a trusted partner for many organizations over the last 23 years, Telit Cinterion continues to make smart meters smarter, successfully connecting millions of meters worldwide and enabling the evolution from automatic meter reading (AMR) to advanced metering infrastructure (AMI). We are more than an IoT module supplier but an end-to-end IoT system enabler, providing components and services embedded into smart meter systems that contribute to overall system security, promoting a safer smart grid.

There are four key areas Telit Cinterion contributes to smart meter security:

Communication protection: secure cellular modules, pen-tested, with an extensive security feature set (secure boot, firmware protection, secure interfaces / AT commands, etc.)
Application protection: secure identity and data protection. Trusted, diversified and immutable identities that help secure the communications link between the smart meter and device management/meter data management systems.
Network protection: a global geo-redundant cellular core network with advanced security features for reliable communications (VPN, APN, network QoS monitoring and alerting, etc.)
Lifecycle protection: secure device management. Meter vendors can use it to monitor the cellular link’s quality and keep the cellular modem firmware up to date with the latest security patches (FOTA). eSIM or embedded SIM is also critical to secure device management as it enables remote SIM provisioning, which helps keep the device’s security and firmware up to date.

As cyber threats grow more advanced, the metering industry is working to keep pace by continuing to establish new security standards. How can manufacturers and IoT suppliers ensure that they stay current with these evolving regulations?

Because smart metering falls within critical infrastructure, regulators look at smart meter manufacturers and vendors with critical eyes. As such, the industry must acknowledge that cybersecurity is a continuous activity that doesn’t stop after a smart meter gets deployed. To the contrary, one must remain vigilant, implementing processes that ensure its system security keeps up with the ever-growing sophistication of malicious cyber actors. Luckily, the ecosystem, at least in the EU, is evolving towards a harmonized set of standards that should help bring clarity to the different actors involved about the required compliance.

Some of the industry standards smart meter vendors should be familiar with include the Common Criteria standard ISO15408 adopted by the EU in the EUCC scheme, as well as the IEC 62443, which in Europe is essential to comply with the NIS directive. Although specific to the EU, these standards will be relevant for smart meter vendors and utilities worldwide. The smart meter industry should also prepare for the upcoming Cyber Resilience Act in the EU, which will address IoT devices and systems. Likewise, ESMIG, the European Association of Smart Energy Solution Providers, plays a key role in representing the meter industry as it addresses regulatory barriers to accelerate practical and realizable green energy transition.

Navigating these different standards and evolving regulations can be challenging, underscoring the need for a partner, like Telit Cinterion, on top of these changes and adjusting their security policy and practices accordingly.

Looking ahead, how will AI affect IoT and edge device security?

It’s hard to predict how AI will affect IoT and edge device security. However, it is clear that AI will provide both malicious cyber actors and utilities/smart meter vendors with more powerful technology for ill or good purposes. Attacks will become more sophisticated, but so too will countermeasures and defenses. If done right, edge and cloud AI technologies have the potential to detect patterns that could indicate a cybersecurity breach more efficiently than ever before.

Considering the complexities around metering regulations and the evolving landscape of cyber threats, how can smart meter vendors engage with an IoT partner?

As mentioned earlier, it does not make sense to start implementing security measures before assessing the situation via a security audit. Such an assessment is a mandatory step for every smart meter vendor who takes smart meter security seriously. After establishing what issues are present and where security is lacking, can smart meter vendors reach out to an IoT partner to see which services and products would be most suitable. Ideally, smart meter vendors should look for trusted partners, like Telit Cinterion, that design their cellular modules and connectivity services to be secure by design.

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SoftBank Corp. and Intelsat signed a groundbreaking collaboration agreement that will lead to the launch of a single “Ubiquitous Network” enabling customers to stay connected everywhere they go.

SoftBank and Intelsat will jointly lead research and development of seamless 5G connections between terrestrial mobile networks and satellite communications networks.

In a society where everyone and everything is increasingly dependent on staying connected, convenient, and always-on, telecommunications are essential. However, despite the coming realization of autonomous mobility with automobiles, ships, drones and other vehicles, many areas are still without ground-based mobile network coverage and require separate devices and accounts to connect to non-terrestrial networks.

Through the new collaboration, SoftBank and Intelsat plan to jointly develop a hybrid communication solution that allows users to stay connected via available networks, whether terrestrial or satellite, anywhere in the world with the convenience of one device and one account. The solution will build on the same standard architectures, interfaces and processes that enable roaming of devices between terrestrial cellular networks today and will help make the commercial adoption of mobility solutions based on new 3GPP 5G standards for non-terrestrial networks a reality much sooner.

One of the key goals of the collaboration is to develop a universal device that will always stay connected regardless of where in the world it goes. For example, a future connected vehicle equipped with such a device will be able to seamlessly switch to a non-terrestrial satellite communication network when outside of terrestrial mobile network coverage. The targeted solution is expected to have wide commercial applicability, including in land mobile, maritime, and disaster response and recovery.

Design, development, field testing and commercialization of new hybrid network products between Intelsat and SoftBank will be conducted in phases, aligned with the development of the new 3GPP 5G non-terrestrial network standards. The resulting hybrid solutions will allow for existing satellite terminals to be used in the near term and newer 5G-based terminals as they become available.

Bruno Fromont, Intelsat Chief Technology Officer, said:

“Intelsat and SoftBank share a pioneering vision of Ubiquitous Networking and seamless interoperability between satellite and terrestrial networks.”

“Until now, the challenge was aligning standards that allowed the two different networks to connect. With recent progress on 5G-based standardization of non-terrestrial networks led by Intelsat at 3GPP and this strategic collaboration with SoftBank, we are ideally positioned to accelerate the design and practical implementation of commercial hybrid services that will allow devices to freely roam between satellite and terrestrial networks.”

Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and CTO of SoftBank said, “By using technology that switches between terrestrial mobile networks and satellite communication networks through roaming, we can integrate the two previously separate networks and utilize satellite communication as an extension of mobile communication. Through this joint research and development, SoftBank and Intelsat will aim to build a Ubiquitous Network where people and things around the world can be connected to communication anytime, anywhere.”

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A new chapter in IoT free and open-source software development with robust integration for Clea within the Zephyr RTOS.

SECO, a leading provider of end-to-end technological solutions, is proud to announce that its Clea software stack now supports the Zephyr Real Time Operating System thanks to the release of the dedicated SDKs (software development kits) for microcontrollers and processors: the Astarte Device SDK for Zephyr and the Edgehog Zephyr Device Component.

These SDKs provide seamless integration between SECO’s Clea suite and Zephyr RTOS, significantly expanding the number of hardware platforms that now have native support for Clea. This enhancement reduces time to market for customers, giving them a broader choice of platforms to develop their IoT solutions efficiently. It marks a significant advancement in IoT device management, data orchestration, and AI/ML at the edge.

About Zephyr Framework

Zephyr is a state-of-the-art development framework that uniquely combines the features of a real-time operating system (RTOS) with a level of compatibility with POSIX standards, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. It supports a variety of microcontrollers architectures, as well as modern development tools, making it ideal for IoT applications that require scalability, security, and real-time capabilities. Zephyr is a widespread solution that is increasingly being adopted by big companies and enterprises, rapidly becoming a de facto standard in the industry due to its robust features and versatility.

SECO’s Commitment to Open Collaboration and the Zephyr Community

SECO’s commitment to open collaboration is a cornerstone of its strategy, driving innovation and contributing to the broader development community. By actively contributing to the Zephyr Project ecosystem, SECO is helping to shape the future of this versatile framework. The release of the Astarte and Edgehog SDKs for Zephyr is a testament to SECO’s dedication to enhancing the capabilities available to developers. These SDKs not only integrate SECO’s powerful IoT platforms with Zephyr but also provide all primitives for pairing, safely connecting, and exchanging application and device-related data, thus enabling developers to abstract IoT complexities in data and device management, allowing developers to focus on the specific solution they are trying to build. SECO looks forward to receiving feedback from the Zephyr community and continuing to contribute to the advancement of open-source projects.

Clea Software Stack Integration with Zephyr

The newly released SDKs enable seamless integration of SECO’s Astarte and Edgehog platforms, enhancing both data orchestration and device management capabilities. The Astarte Device SDK Zephyr facilitates the efficient connection of Zephyr-based devices to the Astarte IoT data orchestration platform. This integration supports essential features such as data synchronization, data analysis and calculation, MQTT-based communication, and interface definition generation, simplifying the management of IoT data.

Meanwhile, the Edgehog Zephyr Device SDK is tailored specifically for robust device management. By integrating Edgehog’s capabilities with Zephyr, it provides functionalities such as OS and hardware information reporting, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, system status monitoring, and more. This comprehensive feature set enables effective device and fleet management, allowing enhanced remote control and oversight of IoT deployments. Both SDKs are compatible with a great number of solutions, broadening their applicability across a range of IoT devices, with many more to come.

“Our commitment to open and advanced IoT solutions is aimed at providing our customers with the tools they need to simplify and accelerate their digital transformation. With the release of the Astarte and Edgehog SDKs for the rapidly growing Zephyr RTOS ecosystem, SECO is expanding its potential customer base by enabling its Clea IoT platform on a wider range of applications and hardware platforms, sitting at the heart of new IoT products and digital services,” said Davide Catani, Chief Technology Officer of SECO.

“We are excited to expand our open-source IoT offering with cutting-edge components for Zephyr, addressing a wide range of needs—from secure MQTT-based telemetry to over-the-air (OTA) updates and advanced device management features. These new components empower even the most resource-constrained devices to seamlessly connect to our Clea suite, unlocking endless possibilities. This is just the beginning of our journey with Zephyr, and we have much more in store in the coming months. We encourage our community to stay tuned on GitHub for continuous updates and new features,” said Davide Bettio, IoT Platform Manager of SECO.

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Berg Insight, the world’s leading IoT market research provider, today released a new market report covering the Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS) market.

In this study, a HEMS is defined as a system that at minimum consists of a solar PV system, battery storage system and a web-based management portal or smartphone app that allows for remote monitoring and control of the system. A wider HEMS also integrates backup generators, EV chargers, heat pumps, home appliances and other connected products and systems in the home.

There were an estimated 2.2 million HEMS installed in European homes at the end of 2023. An estimated 1.1 million systems were added to the installed base during the year. This figure includes both new installations of solar PV + battery storage systems as well as installations of battery storage systems in existing solar PV systems (i.e. retrofits). The penetration rate is still very low in Europe, at around 1.8 percent. Germany is by far the leading market and accounts for more than half of the installed base and shipments in Europe in 2023. Growing at a CAGR of 36.7 percent, the installed base of HEMS in Europe is estimated to reach 10.3 million systems at the end of 2028, corresponding to a penetration rate of 8.2 percent.

There were at the same time an estimated 600,000 HEMS installed in North American homes at the end of 2023. Shipments including both new installations and retrofits reached 210,000 systems during the year. The US is estimated to account for about 95 percent of the North American market while Canada accounts for 5 percent. California, Texas and Hawaii are some of the largest HEMS markets in the US. The installed base of HEMS in North America is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 38.3 percent to reach 3.0 million systems at the end of 2028. This will then correspond to a penetration rate of 2.5 percent.

The HEMS value chain spans various companies from different industry sectors. Some companies are vertically integrated, offering a complete HEMS based on in-house developed hardware and software solutions. Other companies develop and manufacture one part of the HEMS. Some of these companies integrates components from third-party companies to be able to offer a complete HEMS. There are also several companies that specialise in providing a software platform that enables other companies to offer HEMS. Major US-based HEMS players include Enphase Energy, Tesla, Generac, Lunar Energy and Savant Systems. Leading Germany-based companies include E3/DC (Hager Group), Sonnen (Shell), Senec (EnBW), Solarwatt, SMA Solar and Viessmann Climate Solutions (Carrier). Significant UK-based companies include GivEnergy and Myenergi. France-based Schneider Electric is also an important player in the industry. Several significant players on the HEMS market in North America and Europe are based outside of the two regions, including China-based Huawei, Growatt and Sungrow; Israel-based SolarEdge; Japan-based Panasonic; and South Korea-based LG Energy Solution.

Additional players active on the HEMS market in Europe and North America include Briggs & Stratton Energy Solutions, Canadian Solar, Enpal, Ferroamp, Fimer, FranklinWH Energy Storage, Fronius, GridX (E.ON), Homey, Kiwigrid, Kostal, myGEKKO (Ekon), Pixii, Polarium Energy Solutions, Powervault, Sol-Ark and Tigo Energy.

“The HEMS market in Europe and North America grew substantially in 2023, driven by homeowners’ interest in saving on electricity costs, becoming more energy resilient and reducing CO2 emissions”, says Martin Apelgren, Principal Analyst at Berg Insight. Government subsidies and tax incentives as well as the structure of the net metering or feed-in-tariff schemes in a country or region play an important role in the adoption of HEMS.

“A number of recent policy changes in key markets in Europe and North America, such as the implementation of NEM 3.0 in California, catalyst the HEMS market”, continues Mr. Apelgren.

Intermittent energy resources, such as wind and solar power, are accounting for a larger share of the energy mix in many countries and the demand for energy is increasing rapidly due to the growing adoption of EVs, heat pumps and other power-hungry devices in the home. This amplifies energy demand and supply volatility, putting a strain on the electricity grid.

Mr. Apelgren, concludes:

“The possibility to reduce grid electricity consumption during peak hours using HEMS will be of key importance for both individual households and the society as a whole going forward.”

The post The number of Home Energy Management Systems in Europe and North America to exceed 13 million in 2028 appeared first on IoT Business News.

To support South East Water’s mass rollout, Avnet has set up a water meter test lab at its Bayswater facility in Melbourne for verification testing.

Avnet, a leading global technology solutions company, has been awarded a contract to supply Huizhong’s SCL61H-100 smart ultrasonic water meters to South East Water’s Digital Meters program.

South East Water is undertaking the largest rollout of smart meters in Australia. The deployment of Huizhong’s smart water meters aligns with the water utility’s aim to significantly reduce water wastage, a critical issue as non-revenue water—water lost to leaks and bursts in distribution systems—represents a substantial operational cost for water utilities as well as an environmental issue.

South East Water have pioneered the integration of sensors into smart meters. By integrating a proprietary vibration sensor, developed and patented by South East Water, these smart meters will facilitate accurate network leak detection. As data is ingested into South East Water’s Lentic IoT platform, the vibration strength is triangulated thereby pinpointing the exact location of leaks in the network, the type of leak and potentially whether it is escalating into a burst. This helps South East Water reduce non-revenue water, lower operational costs, and ultimately provide cost savings to consumers.

Aik Hoon, Regional President, South Asia, Korea and Avnet United said this partnership perfectly embodies our commitment to sustainability.

Aik Hoon, said:

“By collaborating with South East Water and Huizhong, we’re not only advancing pioneering technology but also making meaningful strides to reduce water waste and enhance resource management. It’s deeply rewarding to see our efforts contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for the communities we serve.”

South East Water General Manager, Digital Utility, Mark Elvins said, following a rigorous tender process, the organisation is excited to realise the cost savings and sustainability benefits the digital water meters will deliver for customers, the community and the environment.

“We are excited to partner with Avnet. As we look to the future, we need to build resilience into Australia’s water network to continue to respond to the challenges of water scarcity, a changing climate and growing population,” said Mr Elvins.

To support South East Water’s mass rollout, Avnet has established a dedicated water meter test lab at its Bayswater facility in Melbourne for thorough verification testing. These advanced meters will offer consumers near real-time data on water usage for improved management and conservation.

South East Water’s customer leak notifications saved around 683 million litres and customers $2.9 million (during 2023–24) through the identification of potential leaks on customer properties in near real time. The network leak monitoring program, using data from digital meters, enabled over 140 million litres of drinking water to be saved through the early identification and repair of water leaks in South East Water’s network.

Over the years, Avnet has been instrumental in providing South East Water with smart water meters and advanced solutions for remote telemetry trials, as well as tackling technical challenges associated with the integration of new technologies.

Avnet’s comprehensive support covers every step of the product lifecycle, from design to delivery, with deep technical and supply chain expertise. This collaboration with South East Water marks a significant step in Avnet’s journey in the smart water meter sector. It aligns with the company’s broader Internet of Things (IoT) strategy, advancing efforts to create a fully interconnected and sustainable world.

The post Avnet to Support South East Water’s Mass Digital Meter Deployment appeared first on IoT Business News.

The IoT initially connected everyday objects to the internet for the development of smarter, more efficient systems. Today, the technology advances significant changes in various industries involved in processing payments. In sum, different areas like retail, transportation, health, and online gaming have developed their IoTs with the ability to alter transaction times and introduce increased levels of security into their operations.

This article discusses how IoT is potentially changing payment processing across industries-a look at key examples and impacts on businesses and consumers.

Smarter Retail Payments with IoT

Probably the most visible impact of IoT in payment processing occurs in retail. Through IoT, smart payment terminals and connected devices facilitate quicker, smoother transactions. For instance, IoT-enabled contactless payment solutions, such as mobile wallets and wearables, have seen widespread adoption among retailers worldwide. Today, instead of fiddling with cash or cards, consumers can simply tap their smartphones or smartwatches on any terminal to make a payment.

IoT-enabled POS systems give retailers an insight into consumer behavior. Thus, businesses use IoT devices in conjunction with data analytics platforms to know purchasing trends, manage their inventories, and develop focused marketing campaigns. Improved customer experience leads to loyalty and revenues but also takes care of smoother processing at the checkout counters.

Revolutionizing Payment Processing in Transportation

IoT is making the facilitation of ticketing and payment in the transportation industry. Smart ticketing allows the user to pay with an app or card developed on the IoT system; hence, it minimizes queues and reduces cash handling. These systems can automatically apply all benefits/penalties based on real-time data, thus making it easier for commuters and more efficient for operators.

For instance, several cities have integrated IoT-based fare collection on buses and trains, not to mention bike-sharing services. Such solutions decrease the operational cost by lessening the need for much cash flow while offering security by minimizing the physical cash available in circulation. The ease of cashless payments enabled through the IoT assists transport organizations in achieving better efficiency and improving customer satisfaction.

Healthcare and IoT: Payment Simplification

While the healthcare industry has been quick to adopt this IoT for betterment in patient care, it has also seen its reflection in payment processing. Wearable technology and connected healthcare devices are increasingly simplifying medical bill payments at hospitals and clinics by connecting insurance information to medical records for bill settlement via IoT-enabled platforms.

Medical facilities have started integrating into their billing systems intelligent devices to process patient payments in real time and reduce administrative overhead, making the experience seamless. From consultation to procedures and medication, IoT-driven payment systems guarantee swifter processing and safety for both patients and healthcare providers.

IoT in Online Gambling: Ensuring Better Security and Convenience

Probably one of the unexpected sectors benefiting from IoT in processing online payments is those dealing with gambling. In its integration, IoT is changing the way players deposit and withdraw funds, thereby giving them a more secure experience.

For instance, IoT technology has improved secure casino payments with Instadebit, a leading payment platform known for its ease of use and enhanced security. With the rise of connected devices, players can now make secure transactions on gaming sites from their smartphones, tablets, or even smartwatches.

IoT has also enabled the real-time tracking of transactions, hence ensuring that both deposit and withdrawal processes work as fast and securely as possible.

This becomes especially relevant in the context of this application, whereby players insist on speed and privacy concerning their financial manipulations. Further on, such IoT-powered systems would make sure that these transactions are safe against fraudulent activities and cyber attacks; thus, one may rest assured while using his or her favorite gaming applications.

Increased Payment Security with IoT

In fact, one of the biggest fears related to industries is security when it comes to payment handling. As more devices are getting connected over IoT, so is the need for cybersecurity mechanisms. And fortunately, IoT has means to reduce many risks involved with data breaches and frauds.

IoT devices can implement encryption, biometric authentication, and tokenization to secure transactions from unauthorized access. A good example is retail, which could employ IoT sensor-fitted smart terminals that study patterns of behavior that could be suspicious and flag suspicious transactions in real time.

IoT, therefore, can help companies with multi-layered security to protect not only customers but also their own future from some kind of cyber threat.

IoT-Enabled Personalized Payment Experience

Other benefits of IoT in payment processing are its capabilities for personalization of customer experience. Through connected devices, businesses can capture data and draw insights to offer personalized payment options to customers. An example could be IoT-powered loyalty programs that offer personalized discounts or promotions based on a customer’s purchase history.

In online gaming, for example, IoT can track player behavior and provide customized promotions to accommodate or offer players personalized payment processing options. Whether it be a preference for processing their payments with an e-wallet or cryptocurrency, IoT systems will adapt the longer and more one plays to make the gameplay even quicker by adapting preferred payment options.

IoT and Future Payment Processing

The influence of the Internet of Things on payment processing will further expand. As smart devices and connected platforms are being increasingly deployed across diverse industries, so is the need for seamless, secure, and efficient means of making a payment. We are likely to witness further innovation in this space, from instant payments to enhanced security and more conveniences made possible through IoT-driven solutions.

Every business in each and every industry is required to keep one step ahead of this emerging trend through investment in IoT technology, updates to payment systems, and satisfaction of the expectations rising among modern buyers. IoT opens the way for quicker, safer, and more personalized payments in sectors like retail, health care, transport, and more.

The post How IoT is Transforming Payment Processing Across Industries appeared first on IoT Business News.

Snapdragon X80-equipped smartphones will seamlessly support satellite messaging, location sharing, and SOS.

Skylo today unveiled satellite connectivity capability for smartphones powered by Snapdragon® X80 5G Modem-RF System from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

This built-in access to Skylo’s pioneering Non-Terrestrial-Network (NTN) is designed to enable smartphones using Snapdragon X80 with support for direct communications over satellite. This includes two-way peer-to-peer text messaging, location sharing and SOS notification to emergency services.

The Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System maximizes data speeds and performance, supports superior call connectivity and coverage, and extends battery life on mobile devices. Snapdragon Modem-RF systems are synonymous with mobility and are the foundation for 5G connectivity across smartphones, IoT devices, wearables, automotive and other segments using chipsets from Qualcomm Technologies. The Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System has completed all testing and is now Skylo certified.

Skylo’s global non-terrestrial network (NTN) utilizes dedicated Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) spectrum to reach nine Earth stations across half a dozen partner constellations with more than 50 million square kilometers of coverage, ensuring that smartphones can seamlessly switch from cellular networks to satellite and stay connected. The use of MSS allows Skylo to provide seamless, comprehensive satellite connectivity to smartphones using Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF without requiring carriers to allocate valuable terrestrial spectrum or go through extensive regulatory hurdles.

“This is an impressive moment for cellular connectivity made possible by the strength of Skylo’s pioneering network and Qualcomm Technologies’ groundbreaking Snapdragon X80,” said Francesco Grilli, vice president of product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

“First we brought seamless NTN to IoT and together, we’re making significant strides in smartphone connectivity. We are extremely proud of this collaboration with Skylo and look forward to what’s possible as we continue expanding satellite access to other industries, like enterprise, automotive, and wearables.”

“Our work with Qualcomm Technologies provides smartphone users the peace of mind that comes with satellite connectivity,” said Dr. Andrew Nuttall, CTO and co- founder of Skylo. “Qualcomm Technologies has been an exemplary partner and we look forward to introducing new, exciting satellite integrations into everyday use-cases.”

The post Skylo Introduces Satellite Connectivity for Smartphones with Snapdragon appeared first on IoT Business News.

Clea’s comprehensive approach to device and data orchestration

SECO is pleased to announce a new webinar focused on Clea, its cutting edge IoT technology stack designed for efficient data and device management in IoT projects.

This webinar offers an exclusive look at Clea’s capabilities and how it enables businesses to streamline operations and monetize their data.

Airdate: September 17, 2024, 5:00 pm CEST (09:00 AM EDT)

Speakers: Giulio Malitesta, Technical Marketing Specialist, SECO

What’s in store for this webinar

As IoT infrastructures grow more complex, the need for effective data and device management is more crucial than ever. Clea simplifies this challenge by providing a turnkey solution for managing devices, data, and applications. With its robust and secure architecture, Clea helps businesses streamline operations and unlock new opportunities for data monetization.

Built on open-source technologies, Clea delivers high security, flexibility, and compatibility with major cloud providers and on-premises infrastructures. It supports a broad range of use cases, from industrial equipment to consumer devices, and integrates seamlessly with third-party applications via REST and GraphQL APIs. Whether deployed in the cloud or on-site, Clea offers a scalable and adaptable solution to enhance operational efficiency.

Join us for this exclusive webinar and explore SECO’s Free and Open Source Software (FOSS), modular IoT suite. By the end of the session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to leverage Clea to develop scalable, secure, and high-value IoT solutions tailored to your business needs.

Why attend?

Introduction to Clea: learn how Clea serves as a unified, modular, IoT software suite, simplifying the integration and management of data and devices across diverse use cases.
Deep dive into Clea Astarte: discover Clea Astarte, the open source platform that handles data orchestration and communication with IoT devices.
Managing IoT devices with Clea Edgehog: understand how Clea Edgehog streamlines the lifecycle management of IoT devices, from monitoring device health to executing fleet-wide updates.
Maximizing value through Clea Portal: explore how Clea Portal enables organizations to manage business logic, user access, and monetization strategies by seamlessly integrating third-party applications.
Real-world applications and use cases: see practical examples of how Clea can be applied to industries such as manufacturing and smart cities to enhance efficiency and create data-driven services.

Register now to discover how Clea can help your organization harness the power of IoT and transform data into actionable insights and monetizable services:

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/1917244079273/WN_StL-25f4SMabGBfZWITl9A

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