iONLINE, a global IoT connectivity solutions provider, has partnered with eSIM specialist Workz to help businesses tackle connectivity challenges and the growing demand for sustainability.

The collaboration has created an advanced hybrid eSIM solution that offers remote online and offline network switching capabilities.

Companies face several challenges when managing connected assets on the move, including being hit by expensive roaming charges when moving outside of subscribed coverage zones and losing signal in weak or low coverage areas, leading to decreased visibility of devices and leaving businesses unable to perform critical tasks. Additionally, managing these changes requires dedicated resources, potentially straining operational efficiency.

The solution helps businesses lower running costs and avoid service disruption by automating network switching as conditions change. The eSIM component also enables on-demand network selection, freeing companies from being locked into the network options assigned to the SIM at manufacture.

The offering also provides a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional SIMs, with custom-sized modules that use 50% less plastic and rewritable eSIM technology that allows remote network updates and eliminates the need for any physical replacement of the card.

Through its global, private network, iONLINE provides secure, high-speed connectivity in 189 plus countries across more than 700 carrier networks. FlexiSIM is the result of iONLINE’s partnership with Workz, which launched the first cloud eSIM platform and now hosts over 100 telcos worldwide. It launched in South Africa and the United Kingdom in 2023 and is due to be released in the United States later this year.

Companies benefitting from the solution include Fujifilm, AIoTSense, BrightBlue, Trellis Works, Online Direct, and Amber Group. Fidelity ADT, the largest security services provider to medium and large-scale enterprises in South Africa, utilises thousands of FlexiSIM cards to stay connected daily to protect infrastructure, including airports, government, health and education departments, hospitality venues, casinos, shopping centres, and residential estates.

David Farquharson, CEO of iONLINE, said he approached several SIM manufacturers when first investigating options but that none brought the flexibility he wanted for the product.

“Workz was uniquely positioned to help us develop customised solutions to meet our clients’ needs, and in them we found a supplier and like-minded ally to achieve our global IoT vision. Workz’s dedication, innovation and collaborative spirit resonate deeply with our values at iONLINE. Their SIMs are manufactured on site with sustainability front of mind, ensuring minimal environmental impact.”

Workz CSO Robert Varty added, “We enjoyed working on this project with iONLINE. Their willingness to utilise new technology encouraged us to push the boundaries. It’s been great to see how companies leverage our technology to protect their assets, react quicker to situations, and gain greater visibility of their business. This partnership provides a springboard for us both as we continue to help businesses gain a competitive advantage from IoT.”

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IoT Analytics has published a new analysis that provides an overview and insights into the LPWAN market in 2024.

This analysis is derived from the “Global LPWAN Market Tracker and Forecast 2015-2027 (Q1/2024 Update)” – a tracker that includes market data on worldwide LPWAN connections and module shipments from 2015 to Q4 2023, including market projections for 2024 to 2027.

Key Insights:

• LPWAN connectivity is on the rise. There were nearly 1.3 billion LPWAN IoT connections globally by the end of 2023, according to IoT Analytics’ Global LPWAN Tracker and Forecast 2015–2027 (updated Q1 2024). This is expected to grow at 26% CAGR until 2027.
• NB-IoT comprises 58% of these connections. However, that does not tell the whole story about NB-IoT’s global adoption, as China’s nationwide adoption policy has greatly skewed this number.
• In 2023, licensed LPWAN connections surpassed unlicensed LPWAN connections, even when excluding China’s saturation of NB-IoT, a licensed LPWAN connectivity technology.

Key Quotes:

Knud Lasse Lueth, CEO at IoT Analytics, remarks: “In less than a decade, LPWAN technology has transformed from a nascent market into 1.3 billion connections. This remarkable growth, propelled by both licensed and unlicensed LPWAN technologies, underscores the critical role of low-power wide-area connections in powering IoT applications across diverse industries. At IoT Analytics, our dedication lies in delivering precise, actionable insights that empower stakeholders to adeptly navigate the rapidly evolving IoT connectivity landscape.”

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

“LPWAN technology is evolving rapidly. Integration with satellite IoT connectivity is a natural progression in the field and will likely pave the way for new applications and connect previously unconnected things. Both NB-IoT and LoRa technologies have important roles to play in this hybrid connectivity model, enhancing the efficiency and reach of IoT applications.”

LPWAN Market overview

There are nearly 1.3 billion LPWAN IoT connections globally, according to IoT Analytics’ Global LPWAN Tracker and Forecast 2015–2027 (updated Q1 2024), which tracks LPWAN market data at a granular level across regions, industries, and types. This represents approximately 8% of the over 16 billion connected IoT devices worldwide in 2023.

The LPWAN tracker forecasts that the number of LPWAN connections will grow at a 26% CAGR until 2027, reaching 3 billion at that time, or 10% of all IoT connections worldwide. Behind this growth is the need for use cases like remote monitoring that require infrequent data transmission and battery operation, which LPWAN is especially suited.

The tracker shares granular LPWAN market data across regions, industries, and technology types, including revenue, shipments, and connections. Here, we will look at three insights from the tracker that merit context, as discussed below:

1. China’s “Big Connectivity” strategy skews global LPWAN connection data
2. LoRa remains the leading LPWAN technology outside of China
3. Licensed LPWAN connectivity technology surpassed unlicensed in 2023, even when excluding China’s weighted adoption rate

Market insight 1: China’s “Big Connectivity” strategy skews global LPWAN connection data

Globally, NB-IoT has the largest share of LPWAN connections at approximately 54%. However, this does not paint a clear picture of the world’s adoption of this LPWAN technology.

In 2016, China—the world’s most populated country—made the nationwide rollout of NB-IoT part of its “Big Connectivity” strategy for 2016 to 2020 to support a wide range of use cases. One such use case is smart metering, in which China is a regional leader in adopting smart gas and water meters. According to the LPWAN tracker, by 2023, ~81% of all LPWAN connections in China were NB-IoT, and the country accounted for ~84% of all global NB-IoT connections.

The following charts help demonstrate the impact of China’s dedicated adoption of NB-IoT on global LPWAN connections. On the top chart, we see NB-IoT’s share of LPWAN connections skyrocket between 2016 and 2023—the timeframe for China’s “Big Connectivity” strategy. However, on the bottom chart, China’s LPWAN data are excluded from the global totals, and NB-IoT’s climb—while significant—is nowhere near as pronounced. By the start of 2024, LoRa had a sizeable lead over the other technologies.

This does not mean NB-IoT is not gaining steam elsewhere, however. As the bottom chart shows, when excluding China, NB-IoT comprised 20% of LPWAN connections in 2023—a quick climb since its 3GPP standardization in June 2016. By 2027, the LPWAN tracker forecasts NB-IoT to reach 23% of China-excluded global LPWAN connections, while LoRa is expected to maintain its lead at 36%.

Interesting new use cases are helping drive NB-IoT’s increasing share of LPWAN connections. In July 2023, Spain-based low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellation satellite operator Sateliot and Spanish multinational telecommunications company Telefónica successfully tested an end-to-end roaming 5G cellular network in space using NB-IoT. In January 2024, IoT Analytics noted this test as the most innovative IoT connectivity technology development in 2023.

Market insight 2: LoRa remains the leading LPWAN technology outside of China

When excluding all LPWAN data from China, LoRa has the leading share of global LPWAN connections at 41%—more than double NB-IoT’s share.

Though LoRa’s share of LPWAN connections is decreasing, the technology’s market is still forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 17% by 2027. Helping drive this growth are smart water and gas metering applications, sustainability applications, such as agricultural resource management and optimization, and asset monitoring and tracking solutions, such as US-based semiconductor manufacturer Semtech’s LoRa Edge technology.

Market insight 3: Licensed LPWAN connectivity technology surpassed unlicensed in 2023, even when excluding China’s weighted adoption rate

According to the LPWAN tracker and forecast, licensed LPWAN technology reached a milestone in 2023: its share of LPWAN connections surpassed that of unlicensed LPWAN connections without the assistance of China’s weighted adoption of NB-IoT, a licensed LPWAN technology.

When considering China’s adoption of NB-IoT, licensed connections had already surpassed unlicensed ones by 2020. However, as shown above, NB-IoT’s share of LPWAN connections is not representative of global adoption due to China’s dedicated nationwide rollout of the NB-IoT. Now, without China’s significant boosting considered, it appears that licensed connections are on the rise worldwide and are forecasted to comprise 58% of LPWAN connections in 2027.

Helping drive the rise of licensed LPWAN are cases like smart city management. China offers a good use case with its smart meters, but there are other case studies around the world. For example, Germany-based IoT sensor and data analysis company Sentinum sought to address inefficiencies with public waste management, such as waste collection trucks driving routes where some waste bins are not full. It wanted to use LPWAN connectivity due to its low-power demands, further adding to sustainability.

Sentinum partnered with Vodafone, a UK-based global telecommunications provider, to leverage Vodafone’s licensed LPWAN (specifically, NB-IoT) to reliably relay bin fill data to Sentinum’s backend servers and alert municipal waste disposal staff what bins need collection. Vodafone notes that some applications can experience a time savings of 40% and a CO2 reduction of around 25%.

Analyst assessment: Key LPWAN trends to watch

These insights are from the updated Global LPWAN Tracker and Forecast 2015–2027, which readers can leverage for granular data across regions and industries. Later in 2024, IoT Analytics is planning to publish a full LPWAN market report, which will dive into the LPWAN market data, trends, and company insights. For now, here are two trends worth watching: 1) cooperation and convergence and 2) addressing LPWAN’s limitations.

Trend 1: Convergence and collaboration

The LPWAN industry has evolved significantly over the last decade, and the technology has become more popular. With the market maturing and taking hold within greater IoT connectivity, there appears to be a shift from the early days of high competition to an increased focus on convergence and cooperation.

For example, on July 25, 2023, US-based semiconductor manufacturer Semtech Corporation announced a collaboration with UnaBiz, a Singapore-based IoT solutions provider specialized in LPWAN connectivity, to integrate Unabiz’s Sigfox 0G technology into Semtech’s LoRa Edge and LoRa Connect platforms. This partnership aims to create a cost-effective, versatile platform by offering Sigfox technology support in Semtech’s LR1110, LR1120, and LR1121 products through Sigfox-specific APIs.

Moreover, this initiative highlights the industry’s push towards sustainable, adaptable IoT solutions, allowing customers to choose optimal connectivity based on their unique use cases and sustainability objectives. It is these solutions that will drive the market through 2027, and possibly beyond.

Trend 2: Addressing LPWAN limitations

There are still some limitations of LPWAN that need to be addressed. For example, LPWAN was designed around point-to-point connectivity, not large-scale connectivity with heavy data loads. Higer packet transmission can make LPWANs susceptible to interference from a number of sources (e.g., atmospheric/electrical noise, other radio networks, or even jamming).

To address this, transmission protocols need to ensure that complete data structures are delivered to their endpoints. One notable approach gaining attention in the LPWAN field is from mioty Alliance, a group of businesses, institutes, and engaged individuals aiming to enhance IoT connectivity solutions.

The alliance’s solution is to leverage the Telegram Splitting Multiple Access (TSMA) method to split data packets into smaller subpackets at the sensor level and transmit the packets over different frequencies and time marks. An algorithm on the receiving end will monitor for mioty subpackets and reassemble them into complete messages, ensuring complete messages are received even if one or a few frequencies are experiencing interference.

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• The global cellular IoT module market’s shipments declined 2% in 2023 as compared to 2022.
• Despite a decline in shipments, Quectel continued to lead, followed by Fibocom and China Mobile.
• NB-IoT and 4G Cat 1 shipments declined in its top market, China, where 4G Cat 1 bis gained at 4G Cat 1 and NB-IoT’s expense.

Global cellular IoT module shipments saw their first-ever annual decline in 2023, falling 2% YoY, according to Counterpoint’s latest Global Cellular IoT Module and Chipset Tracker by Application report.

Inventory adjustments following supply chain disruption and reduced demand in some key market verticals like industrial and enterprise were some of the key factors driving this decline.

4G Cat 1 bis grew the fastest in 2023, capturing over 22% of the shipments. In China, 4G Cat 1 bis has now become the primary cellular standard for POS, smart meter, telematics and asset tracking markets, owing to its affordability and energy efficiency. The market is slowly transitioning from 4G Cat 1 and NB-IoT to more efficient 4G Cat 1 bis.

Commenting on market dynamics, Associate Director Mohit Agrawal said,

“India and China have shown positive growth due to increasing demand in the smart meter, POS and asset tracking markets. Conversely, the rest of the world witnessed a sharper decline, indicating a lack of expected market momentum.”

Agrawal added, “Around 12% of the modules shipped in 2023 were equipped with AI capabilities at the software or hardware level. These modules are gaining popularity in high-end markets such as automotive, router/CPE and PC, facilitating the management of the escalating data load in these sectors.”

• Quectel, the leading module vendor, experienced a decline in its market share primarily because of weakened demand in markets outside China. The company has partnered with Syrma SGS Technology to manufacture IoT modules in India.
• China Mobile and Fibocom experienced double-digit YoY growth. China Mobile’s growth was driven by smart meters, asset trackers and POS applications, while Fibocom’s growth was driven by POS and telematics applications.
• This year’s merger between Telit and Thales propelled Telit Cinterion into the top five vendors of IoT modules. To further solidify its presence in India, Telit partnered with VVDN for local production.
• Several Chinese brands like Unionman, OpenLuat, Lierda and Neoway have shown significant growth within specialized markets like smart meter, asset tracking and POS.

Commenting on the market outlook, Research Analyst Anish Khajuria said, “In 2024, the IoT module market is expected to return to growth in the second half of the year with normalizing inventory levels and increasing demand in the smart meter, POS and automotive segments. Moreover, substantial growth is forecasted for 2025, coinciding with the widespread adoption of 5G and 5G RedCap technologies in smart meters, routers/CPE, POS systems, automotive solutions, and asset tracking applications.”

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Quectel, a global IoT solutions provider, and The Things Industries, a global leader in LoRaWAN® Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, today announces a partnership that ensures the Quectel KG200Z LoRaWAN module, comes integrated with “Works with The Things Stack” and “Secured by The Things Stack” certifications, providing users with a robust and secure LoRaWAN solution.

The Quectel KG200Z module harnesses the power of the STM32WL by STMicroelectronics, offering exceptional performance for long-range, low-power applications. It operates within the LoRa high-frequency band, spanning from 862 MHz to 928 MHz, and incorporates advanced AES hardware encryption for enhanced security. One of the standout features of the KG200Z is its compact profile, measuring just 12.0 mm × 12.0 mm × 1.8 mm, and its LGA form package. This design ensures seamless integration into size-constrained applications while maintaining reliable connectivity.

“Quectel is committed to delivering the most reliable and secure IoT solutions to our customers, and our partnership with The Things Industries is a testament to this promise,” commented Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions.

“By combining our KG200Z LoRaWAN module with Quectel’s best-in-classs product security approach with ‘Works with The Things Stack’ and ‘Secured by The Things Stack’ certifications, we are not just offering a product; we are providing a comprehensive solution that meets the highest standards of connectivity and security. This collaboration reflects our dedication to innovation and excellence and working with key ecosystem partners to provide best-in-class solutions.”

Through the collaboration with The Things Industries, Quectel customers are now able to use the KG200Z module in their device design and build, while running additional services through The Things Industries. This partnership empowers users to fully control the end-to-end encryption and key management while leveraging Quectel’s decades-long expertise in module capabilities.

Wienke Giezeman, CEO of The Things Industries, commented,

“With this partnership, users of the Quectel LoRaWAN module can fully integrate end-to-end encryption and key management in-house, while benefiting from the extensive experience and capabilities that Quectel’s modules offer.”

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The Internet of Things’ introduction into manufacturing operations has caused a dramatic transformation in operations management, tracking, and optimization. Leading this revolution are CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine shops known for their accuracy and productivity when producing metal and plastic components.

Through IoT, these facilities have the chance to increase efficiency, reduce operational costs, elevate their operations, and offer high-quality CNC machining services. It becomes increasingly important to be able to adapt and use cutting-edge technologies as the industry keeps changing. In this blog post, we’ll look in greater detail at how a CNC machine shop can benefit from the Internet of Things.

Streamlined Operations

67% of companies now leverage business process automation to optimize and streamline their routine, repetitive tasks. This trend extends to CNC machine companies as well. For these companies, streamlining processes stands out as a primary advantage of adopting IoT technology.

Shops can cut downtime, predict maintenance needs, and monitor machine performance in real time by connecting CNC machines to the internet. The machines’ sensors gather information on several variables, including vibration, temperature, and production output. With the use of this data, equipment may be maintained predictably, reducing unplanned downtime and maintaining steady production levels by servicing units before they malfunction.

Enhanced Quality Control

The margin for error is extremely small in the highly precise field of CNC machining. Even a small deviation can lead to product failure, jeopardizing customer happiness and the company’s reputation. IoT technology ushers in a revolutionary era in manufacturing, transforming quality control. HD cameras and advanced sensors continuously watch production processes. They quickly spot irregularities or deviations from set parameters. This leads to quicker decisions and higher manufacturing standards.

This advanced real-time monitoring feature is essential. It makes sure that any differences are quickly found and fixed, which significantly reduces the possibility of waste and the need for labor-intensive rework. Furthermore, the accuracy of this method makes it possible to identify any problems before they become serious ones, which promotes a proactive approach to quality control.

Optimized Energy Consumption

Another area where IoT can have a significant impact is energy efficiency. CNC machine shops can spot and get rid of operational inefficiencies by keeping an eye on their energy usage in real time. IoT systems can reduce energy consumption during periods of low demand without compromising production capacity by automatically adjusting the power utilization of equipment based on workload. This supports the store’s sustainability initiatives in addition to cutting operating expenses.

Improved Safety and Compliance

Workers in manufacturing environments face a variety of risks, and CNC machine shops are no exception. By keeping an eye on machine operations and ambient conditions, IoT can improve workplace safety by averting mishaps.

IoT solutions, for instance, can notify operators when a machine is operating outside of permissible limits or when dangerous circumstances occur. Furthermore, by automatically recording production procedures and safety precautions, the IoT can aid in ensuring compliance with industrial laws.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Being able to make decisions based on thorough data analysis is arguably one of the biggest advantages of IoT in CNC machining. The enormous quantities of data gathered from IoT devices offer insights into all facets of the business, ranging from customer happiness to supply chain management.

CNC machine shops can spot patterns, forecast shifts in the market, and modify their approach by examining this data. Proactive business management has the potential to boost competitiveness in the market, save expenses, and increase efficiency.

Customization and Flexibility

The IoT makes it possible for CNC machine companies to more effectively address the growing demand for customized products. Manufacturing can be more flexible thanks to IoT, as machines can be swiftly modified for different production runs. For stores hoping to broaden their clientele and enhance their service offerings, the ability to seamlessly transition between product lines is crucial.

Remote Monitoring and Control

The capacity to remotely monitor and control CNC machines using IoT technology is essential for resilience and operational efficiency in the linked world of modern production. In the context of today’s international production environment, where the smooth integration of processes across different geographies is crucial, this aspect becomes more helpful. With only a dependable internet connection, operators can remotely monitor and modify the functioning of CNC machines from anywhere in the world.

This remote accessibility is a vital tool for maintaining continuous production processes, especially in situations where direct access to facilities is impeded. It is not only a convenient feature. Circumstances like health emergencies, which can demand for quarantine, or natural catastrophes, which could physically destroy infrastructure, highlight the importance of remote capabilities. Businesses may protect themselves against unforeseen obstacles and ensure production continuity by minimizing potential disruptions through the use of IoT.

Conclusion

A major advancement in the industrial sector is the incorporation of IoT into CNC machine shops. These shops can attain previously unheard-of levels of quality, flexibility, and efficiency by utilizing IoT. The advantages are numerous and significant, ranging from increased quality control and streamlined operations to safer operations and optimized energy use.

Adopting IoT is becoming more than simply a benefit as the industry develops. For CNC machine shops that are dedicated to offering top-notch CNC machining services in a cutthroat and dynamic market, it is an absolute must. The path towards IoT integration for CNC machine shops is not just a means of achieving growth, but also a calculated step towards sustainability and excellence in the digital era. This is because the future of manufacturing is interconnected.

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The Connectivity Standards Alliance (“Alliance”) Product Security Working Group is pleased to announce the release of their IoT (Internet of Things) Device Security Specification 1.0, with the accompanying certification program, and Product Security Verified Mark.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to establish a unified IoT cybersecurity standard and certification program, providing manufacturers a one-stop solution to certify their devices, enabling them to comply with multiple international regulations and standards more easily.

“The unveiling of the IoT Device Security Specification 1.0, alongside its certification program and the Product Security Verified Mark, signals an important milestone in bolstering IoT security and building confidence with consumers,” said Tobin Richardson, Alliance President & CEO of the Connectivity Standards Alliance.

“By bringing together diverse international regulations into a cohesive specification, the Product Security Certification Program streamlines the process, reduces redundancy, and provides manufacturers with a singular, respected avenue for certifying their devices globally.”

With the increasing adoption of consumer IoT devices, there is a heightened emphasis on security due to a rise in incidents involving breaches and malicious device hijackings. The Product Security Working Group aims to meet this challenge by consolidating requirements from the three most popular IoT Cybersecurity baselines from the United States, Singapore, and Europe into a single specification and certification program. This unifying effort helps manufacturers more easily and efficiently address these regulatory regimes’ requirements aiming to instill confidence in consumers and regulators.

“As consumers embrace the convenience and value of IoT devices, the Alliance is dedicated to helping to create more comprehensive protection for consumers. This initiative aims to establish a robust baseline for all consumer IoT devices,” said Steve Hanna of Infineon Technologies AG and Chair of the Product Security Working Group Steering Committee. “The Alliance’s Product Security Verified Mark and IoT Device Security Specification 1.0 will make it easier for manufacturers to address consumer IoT security requirements around the world.”

IoT Device Security Specification 1.0 Requirements

The Product Security’s IoT Device Security Specification includes dozens of specific device security provisions. IoT Device Manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with those provisions, supplying justifications and evidence to an Authorized Test Laboratory with expertise in security evaluation and experience certifying products relative to this specification.

Highlights of the specific requirements include:

• Unique identity for each IoT Device
• No hardcoded default passwords
• Secure storage of sensitive data on the Device
• Secure communications of security-relevant information
• Secure software updates throughout the support period
• Secure development process, including vulnerability management
• Public documentation regarding security, including the support period

Nearly 200 member companies — including Amazon, Arm, Comcast, Google, Infineon Technologies AG, NXP Semiconductors, Schneider Electric, Signify (Philips Hue and WiZ), and Silicon Labs — have collaborated, pooling related technologies, expertise, and innovations enabling the IoT Device Security Specification 1.0, the accompanying certification program, and Product Security Verified Mark to meet the diverse needs of stakeholders, including consumers, device manufacturers, and regulators. Together, these companies spearheaded the process by driving requirements and specification development and ultimately helping validate the final specification.

The Product Security Certification Program and Verified Mark

Encompassing a broad spectrum of smart home devices such as light bulbs, switches, thermostats, doorbell cameras, and more, the Product Security Certification Program establishes minimum requirements for IoT devices. By consolidating several international regulations into a single set of requirements, the Certification Program streamlines the process, helping manufacturers meet certification criteria from multiple countries or regions with a single evaluation.

The Product Security Verified Mark is confirmation a product meets the specification’s security requirements, with the goal of inspiring consumer confidence. When displayed prominently on certified product packaging, store signage, and online platforms, this Verified Mark builds trust by serving as a marker for secure IoT devices. A printed URL, hyperlink, QR code, or a combination of these representations on the Product Security Verified Mark gives consumers access to more information about the device’s security features.

Looking Ahead

As technology advances and new threats emerge, the Product Security Working Group remains committed to continuously enhancing the IoT Security Device Specification and the accompanying certification program.

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Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) – a leading company in the security technology sector and in the development of SIM technology – has joined the IoT M2M Council, adding its influence to the fast-growing technology sector.

The IMC is the largest trade association dedicated to the IoT ecosystem with 28,000 enterprise users and product makers that deploy technology as rank-and-file members. G+D will participate in IMC programs to share its experience as one of the world’s largest producers of SIM technology, including know-how in eSIM technology, global connectivity, and vertical-market solutions for remote devices.

“G+D has been innovating for over 170 years. Our expansion into the IoT sector beyond eSIM is the ideal way to deliver additional value”, says Sam Colley, Digital Connectivity Portfolio Strategist at G+D. Colley, the IMC’s Chairman and formerly CEO of Pod Group, which, not coincidentally, was acquired by G+D in 2022, added:

“The acquisition of Pod Group was the first step in expanding G+D’s profile in the IoT, and that has been followed by the introduction of our AirOn360 eSIM platform and our vertical track-and-trace offerings.”

For its part, the IMC will provide interactions with its membership – the group is the exclusive IoT partner for the Consumer Electronics Show and the embedded world exhibitions, as well as organizing its own schedule of online events and push-content channels. IMC rank-and-file members must qualify as IoT adopters, which is unique, and the membership covers 27 different vertical markets of. It is fairly evenly dispersed between North America, Europe, Asia, and the rest of the world.

“We look forward to increasing our commitment to the IMC. It is a great platform to meet potential customers, as well as an important space for collaborating with other technology providers. We think it’s imperative that G+D introduces and shares best practices with all parts of the ecosystem. The IMC is unique in representing all the layers of the IoT stack worldwide,” says Colley.

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We live in the time of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It involves a new approach to production. The core of this modern approach is the introduction of IT, large-scale automation, and the spread of AI. The benefits are obvious: increased productivity and competitiveness, better workplace safety, shorter time to market for products.

In the same manner as previous industrial revolutions, the current revolution has a strong impact on the economy. New technology advancements help manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics become more efficient, resilient, cost-effective and green.

What Is Green Logistics?

Green logistics is a group of logistics measures in the supply chain and transportation. It aims to cut negative impacts on the environment as much as possible. The group encompasses initiatives to emphasize energy consumption, carbon footprint, and resource depletion. In terms of logistics, digitalization builds green transportation systems. Many logistic companies are now adopting Multi-Sensor Tracking Devices to cut logistic-related emissions.

The goal of green logistics is to decarbonize the world’s economy by 10-12% by 2025. Researchers believe that green logistics will help redesign business models. Green logistics offers immense opportunities for cargo management, planning, synchronization, and shipping functioning. It allows businesses to respond to supply chain disruptions and adapt to changes. As a result, green logistics can increase productivity by foreseeing future risks. Green logistics has the potential to balance social, economic, and environmental conditions.

Top 5 Advantages of Green Logistics

Green logistics uses several technologies and solutions like IoT (Internet of Things) to improve processes. Green logistics has many advantages including:

Decreased Pollution

Companies using multi-sensor tracking devices see an impressive reduction in pollution generated. The logistics industry handles a quarter of total carbon dioxide discharge. By 2050, this percentage may increase up to 40%, unless we take intense actions. Given the present-day ecological crisis, tracking devices are beneficial both for the company and society as a whole to decrease pollution.

Lower Transportation Costs

Logistics operations are the processes of moving produced goods from the manufacturer to the consumer. The entire process includes inventory management, fulfilling orders, and delivering packages. Green logistics reduces the number of transport operations. This is especially true for businesses with combustion vehicles, emitting greenhouse gasses. Using green logistics will help a business make necessary savings, while reducing pollution.

Reduced Packaging Costs

Product packaging accounts for nearly 50% of the world’s plastic pollution. Green logistics facilitates options for reusable and biodegradable materials for packaging. These options include polyethylene foam, paper bags/tape, and corrugated cardboard. While ecological packaging can be more expensive at the onset, using recyclable materials can ultimately decrease packaging costs.

Better Brand Image

More companies are shifting to green operations. Eco-responsible companies take a winning position according to environmentally friendly suppliers. Companies with a green logistics approach achieve competitive advantages in their businesses by meeting the demands of both B2C and B2B customers. It is estimated that the greener logistics market size may reach $2.9 trillion by 2032, which is a CAGR growth rate of 8.3% from 2023 to 2032.

Warehouse Automation

Automation of warehouses is one of the green logistics strategies. WIth diverse automated processes including IMS and WMS, green logistics reduces losses and helps manage expiration dates. Tracking devices are also a vital tech part that enables green logistics. Warehouse 4.0 meets the efficient green logistics requirements. It is a win-win for the economy and the environment.

Sensor Technologies in Green Logistics

Multi-sensor tracking devices enable companies to increase productivity and sustainability. By digitizing the processes, it becomes easier to bring greener logistics to the world. The ability to properly monitor sustainability helps to protect the planet.

Internet of Things in Enterprise Logistics
The expected number of connected devices by 2026 is 26 billion. In 2022, the market for the world’s transport and logistics sector of the Internet of Things was 31 billion USD. By 2027, this number will probably grow to 67 billion USD. Logistics is now becoming increasingly globalized, therefore enterprises are looking to optimize their transportation, from start to end. To deliver that capacity, it’s crucial to use low-power devices. Such devices seamlessly connect across networks, borders, and protocols.

Sensor Technologies

Multi-sensor trackers can monitor humidity, pressure, temperature, and light. Once integrated into logistics assets, they ensure shipments at the required conditions. Several types of sensors can be used:

• Temperature sensors check temperature-sensitive cargo like chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or fresh goods. They record temperature levels on the go. If levels are above the threshold, the managers get warnings which allows them to take action.
• Pressure sensors track the level of pressure in sealed containers. Multi-sensor tracking devices detect pressure changes. As this may show contamination, leak, or other issues, logistic managers will know how to prevent sensitive goods from contamination.
• Humidity sensors help to oversee the level of humidity for cargo. This is important for textiles and electronics. Humidity sensors activate ventilation systems or dehumidifiers as needed. This allows companies to ensure optimal humidity conditions for their products.
• Gas/chemical sensors monitor the presence of dangerous fumes or leaks in containers with gas or chemicals. Early screening is the guarantee of safety of the cargo and the employees who manage it.
• Light sensors observe light levels. Such sensors detect if the area is subject to light. They prevent damage to electronics or sensitive chemicals. The sensors launch protective measures and adjust stockroom light.
• Vibration sensors are helpful during cargo transits. They detect excessive movement that can impact the cargo. With data from sensors, logistics managers can act promptly.

Geography of Usage

IoT tracking devices have different interconnection technologies to adhere to specific cases. For uninterrupted tracking, they can work on land for use on rail and road. In addition, they work on transport that moves by air with tracking devices that have built-in flight modes which power back up on landing and automatically sleep on take-off. They can also work in the sea, determining the condition of goods and their position using the data from AIS that integrates with data from the base station of the shipping vessels.

Case Studies: Top Green Logistics Companies

There are many companies, committed to decarbonizing their logistic processes. They do so using multi-sensor tracking devices. For example, DHL has developed its GoGreen strategy. It uses sensors to protect against changes in humidity, temperature, vibrations, or light.
FedEx is another example that keeps updating its live-tracking devices to grow security, flexibility, and visibility. Its team brings all the gathered data and intelligence together. This information helps to comprehend cargo status and foresee problems or delays.

Conclusion

Green logistics is not only about getting cargo to its destination faster, it’s about making transportation beneficial for the environment. More companies will get greener in the next few years. They will ultimately force out those companies with traditional logistics models. Though a challenge at first, it’s important to innovate through green technology. Join the greener strategy now, it’s a win-win for companies and for the planet.

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‘U.S. Cyber Trust Mark’ Program Will Help Consumers Make Informed Purchasing Decisions and Encourage Manufacturers to Meet Higher Cybersecurity Standards

The Federal Communications Commission today voted to create a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for wireless consumer Internet of Things (“IoT”) products.

Under the program, qualifying consumer smart products that meet robust cybersecurity standards will bear a label—including a new “U.S Cyber Trust Mark”—that will help consumers make informed purchasing decisions, differentiate trustworthy products in the marketplace, and create incentives for manufacturers to meet higher cybersecurity standards.

With today’s action, the Commission has adopted the rules and framework for the program to move forward. Among program highlights:

• The U.S. Cyber Trust Mark logo will initially appear on wireless consumer IoT products that meet the program’s cybersecurity standards.
• The logo will be accompanied by a QR code that consumers can scan for easy-to understand details about the security of the product, such as the support period for the product and whether software patches and security updates are automatic.
• The voluntary program will rely on public-private collaboration, with the FCC providing oversight and approved third-party label administrators managing activities such as evaluating product applications, authorizing use of the label, and consumer education.
• Compliance testing will be handled by accredited labs.
• Examples of eligible products may include home security cameras, voice-activated shopping devices, internet-connected appliances, fitness trackers, garage door openers, and baby monitors.

The Commission is also seeking public comment on additional potential disclosure requirements, including whether software or firmware for a product is developed or deployed by a company located in a country that presents national security concerns and whether customer data collected by the product will be sent to servers located in such a country.

There are a wide range of consumer IoT products on the market that communicate over wireless networks. These products are made up of various devices, and are based on many technologies,
each of which presents its own set of security challenges. Last August, the Commission proposed and sought comment on developing the voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for IoT. The
rules adopted today are based on that record.

According to one third party estimate, there were more than 1.5 billion attacks against IoT devices in the first six months of 2021 alone. Others estimate that there will be more than 25 billion connected IoT devices in operation by 2030. The cybersecurity labeling program builds on the significant public and private sector work already underway on IoT cybersecurity and labeling, emphasizing the importance of continued partnership so that consumers can enjoy the benefits of this technology with greater confidence and trust

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Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, today announces that, according to a recent milestone report by Finite State, an independent third-party cybersecurity firm, nearly 95% of all Quectel modules shipped to the United States since the beginning of 2022 have industry-leading security scores based on penetration testing and binary analysis by Finite State.

The report highlights a notable enhancement in Quectel’s security position, expanding the number of modules tested and with scores across the tested modules improving from an average of 33 to 18, up from an average of 62 to 24 in previous testing. This represents a substantial improvement, as both the initial and revised scores significantly surpass the industry average of 98 with the lowest (best) score of 10. Further, the number of and severity of vulnerabilities Finite State did identify in Quectel products or modules are significantly less than the industry standard and revealed a very limited attack surface. Those issues Finite State did discover have been quickly remedied by Quectel.

This advanced phase of testing leverages Finite State’s security technologies and expertise to conduct an exhaustive third-party evaluation of Quectel’s modules. The advanced testing encompasses an array of sophisticated security assessments designed to fortify Quectel’s modules against the evolving landscape of cyber threats, including binary analysis of numerous Quectel products and both penetration testing and binary analysis of several Quectel cellular modules.

“Entering this next phase of security testing with Finite State underscores our relentless pursuit of the highest security standards for our products,” stated Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions.

“Our continued collaboration is a reflection of our commitment to exceed industry security expectations, ensuring our customers benefit from the most secure and reliable communication modules available – tested and verified by one of the most trusted US cyber security firms. We’re thrilled that the latest report from Finite State demonstrates our commitment and progress.”

The continued integration of Finite State into Quectel’s transparency and security program reaffirms Quectel’s commitment to pioneering unparalleled security practices in the IoT and telecommunications sectors. Quectel has made a measurable improvement in key areas such as the security health of the code, the sophistication of the vulnerability management process, and the transparency of its software supply chain.

The program is strategically designed with three key goals to address the pressing issues in cybersecurity today:

• Implementing the Finite State Platform into Quectel’s DevSecOps procedures, which enhances firmware binary analysis, manages vulnerabilities efficiently, and offers specific recommendations for remediation.
• Developing and sharing Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) and Vulnerability Exploitability Exchange (VEX) documents for each of Quectel’s products, which promotes a transparent environment and provides critical insights into the software components of Quectel’s devices along with any vulnerabilities they may contain.
• Conducting comprehensive manual penetration tests by Finite State’s expert Red Team, which augments automated testing methods and delivers detailed security evaluations for Quectel’s product line.

Matt Wyckhouse, CEO of Finite State, commented, “Progressing to this next phase of security testing demonstrates Quectel’s commitment to leading the industry with transparent, rigorous cybersecurity practices. Quectel’s willingness to subject their products to such rigorous scrutiny is commendable and sets a new industry standard to further safeguard the IoT ecosystem.”

The outcome of this continued engagement is anticipated to enhance the security framework of Quectel’s modules and inspire a shift towards more rigorous security standards across the telecommunications industry. Quectel is dedicated to sharing insights and best practices gleaned from this process, contributing to a safer, more secure digital future.

In addition to the activity with Finite State, Quectel is actively pursuing collaboration with multiple standards-setting organizations to enhance and commit to a more rigorous set of security requirements. This initiative aims to achieve key security certifications from both industry and governmental bodies, underlining Quectel’s dedication to advancing security standards within the sector.

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Sequans Communications, S.A., a leading cellular IoT chipmaker, announces that it has been granted financing of 10.9 million EUR from the French government as part of the France 2030 initiative to support the development of technologies deemed to be strategically important to the national interest.

Such financing will be received with an upfront payment followed by three milestone payments over the duration of the project. The France 2030 initiative, operated for the state by Bpifrance, aims to transform key sectors of the French economy, including the telecom sector, called for projects to accelerate the development of 5G and beyond as “sovereign solutions”.

In its proposal, Sequans outlined a plan to create a new generation massive IoT chip supporting 5G NR eRedCap (5G new radio enhanced reduced capability) that meets the requirements of the 3GPP standard defined in Release 18 and beyond. 5G NR eRedCap will comply with the latest 5G NR networks and address massive IoT applications with cost-effective, low-power, and ultra-reliable connectivity required for industrial, utilities, medical, asset tracking, and automotive applications.

Georges Karam, Sequans CEO, said:

“We are grateful that our proposal was chosen by France 2030 as it strengthens and secures our massive IoT low-power 5G product portfolio development. In addition to 5G NR eRedCap support, this new chip will be backward compatible with existing 4G networks, providing a smooth transition path from 4G to the latest 5G networks for the next ten years”.

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IoT Analytics has published a new analysis that highlights 10 emerging IoT trends driving market growth.

This analysis is derived from the comprehensive “State of IoT – Spring 2024” – a report on the current state of the Internet of Things, including market updates and projections, the latest trends, market sentiments, investments, M&As, industry expert opinions, and more.

Key Insights:

• According to the latest State of IoT – Spring 2024 report, IoT remains a top-three corporate technology priority.
• While AI has surpassed IoT in corporate prioritization, combining IoT and AI is on the rise and seen as a tailwind for the $236-billion IoT market rather than a disrupter.
• IoT Analytics identified 40+ current IoT market trends in this research, 10 of which are shared below.

Key Quotes:

Knud Lasse Lueth, CEO at IoT Analytics, remarks:

“In 2023, the IoT market demonstrated significant resilience among economic fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. We now estimate a robust growth of 17% per annum through 2030. This growth is fueled by an increase in connected assets and corresponding investments in AI and cybersecurity within the IoT sector.”

IoT remains a top corporate priority on the back of the current AI wave

IoT remains a top priority. IoT remains a top-three corporate technology priority while AI has taken over as the top technology priority, according to the latest 148-page State of IoT – Spring 2024 report. In recent surveys from PWC, KPMG, and BCG, respondents ranked IoT second or third after AI in terms of investment prioritization for emerging technologies, with AI coming in first across the board.

AI is a tailwind for IoT. The latest research finds that the growth of AI is a strong tailwind for the $236-billion IoT market, as companies are gaining interest in both AI and IoT within their organizations. One indication is from IoT Analytics’ analysis of company earnings calls: since Q3 2022, the mention of these two technologies in the same earnings call rose by 61%.

40 current trends identified by the IoT Analytics team. IoT Analytics’ market analysis relies on the valuable findings of its research analyst team and input from industry experts and advisors. These professionals contributed greatly to the spring 2024 State of IoT report, which showcases nearly 40 IoT market trends, along with IoT market data, recent IoT news and developments, and the performance and activities of IoT companies. The analysis shows that AI is not the only trend that will help drive the IoT market—10 of the trends discussed in our report can be found below.

IoT market expected to continue its growth path. IoT Analytics assesses that the 10 trends discussed in this article (among many more) will contribute to an IoT market CAGR of 17% until 2030, which is a cautious downward revision from the forecasted 19% CAGR in early 2023 but nonetheless a testament to the strength of the technology and its impact in a variety of markets.

CEO quote: “In 2023, the IoT market demonstrated significant resilience among economic fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. We now estimate a robust growth of 17% per annum through 2030. This growth is fueled by an increase in connected assets and corresponding investments in AI and cybersecurity within the IoT sector.” – Knud Lasse Lueth, Chief Executive Officer

Spring 2024 macro environment outlook: Lingering economic uncertainty, but IoT remains a key investment

Inflation coming down. The high inflation rates that we saw in 2023 seem to be subsiding. The Euro area inflation estimate for January 2024 was 2.8%, down from 2.9% in December 2023. In the US, consumer inflation has greatly eased from its peak of 9.1% in June 2022; it currently stands at 3.2% in February 2023. In Asia, some countries witnessed their lowest inflation levels since 2022.

Muted global economic growth projections. However, despite inflation progress, global economic growth projections are still below the historical annual average. The IMF forecasts a 3.1% global economic growth in 2024 and a 3.3% growth in 2025. Additionally, by December 2023, China—the second-largest economy and the country with the most connected devices—experienced its longest deflation streak since 2009, with prices declining for the third consecutive month. On the flip side, India’s economy has been outperforming the rest of the world.

IoT markets affected, but positive sentiment shows. The IoT market has seen positive economic news lately. Going into 2024, the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index is back to its long-term average, indicating a normalization of supply chains after stormy times during the pandemic. Additionally, business sentiment around IoT appeared overall positive, and many IoT companies reported significant year-on-year growth in both revenue and gross margin within the IoT sector in Q4 2023 (e.g., Supercom, Lantronix, and Globalstar). Unfortunately, some IoT companies have reported revenue declines and market weakness.

Analyst quote: “India has emerged as the ‘new China’ in terms of growth outlook.” – Philipp Wegner, Principal Analyst—Data

With this market backdrop, the following is a list of 10 notable IoT and tech-related trends and opinions identified by the IoT Analytics team as part of the research for the report with accompanying commentary:

Trend 1: Semiconductor companies invest in embedded chipset security

Semiconductor companies are increasingly investing in embedded chipset security to address the growing security threats IoT devices face. Securing hardware at the chipset level with secure elements and physical unclonable functions (PUFs) can help protect data flowing from edge devices to the cloud.

Example: The ecosystem of US-based semiconductor company Intel is growing with security partners like US-based digital authentication company Intrinsic ID. In February 2024, Intel Foundry added Intrinsic ID to its Accelerator IP Alliance program, aiming to ensure the availability of hardware-based root-of-trust solutions for the Foundry’s members. Accepting that security and reliability are valuable for applications, the Foundry opened access to Intrinsic ID’s QuiddiKey X00 product family of root-of-trust (RoT) solutions, which use standard SRAM as a PUF to generate a hardware RoT without needing additional security-dedicated silicon.

Analyst quote: “Semiconductor companies are at the forefront of tackling [the growing security threats IoT devices face], focusing on investing in embedded chipset security, as hardware forms the foundational layer.” – Satyajit Sinha, Principal Analyst – Connectivity and hardware

Trend 2: Industrial automation hardware is becoming more intelligent with the integration of AI chipsets

With the advancement in AI technology, companies are now looking to leverage AI at the edge, increasing the demand for real-time data analytics also at the edge. AI chipsets are also becoming smaller in size while growing in power. This trend has led to the emergence of IPCs and gateways embedded with AI chipsets, resulting in edge AI equipment that can perform parallel computations and train algorithms with very low computational response latency.

One benefit of using AI chipsets at the edge is the acceleration of data processing directly on the industrial equipment. This, in turn, reduces network traffic and enhances security, as the amount of data going to the cloud for processing is reduced.

Example: At SPS in November 2023, Germany-based automation and digitalization manufacturer Siemens presented its SIMATIC IPC520A Box PC embedded with 6-core NVIDIA Carmel for edge capabilities and NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX GPU for A, making it suitable for AI-oriented operations. The IPC520A is designed to work seamlessly with AI-based applications across various industries, including factory automation and logistics.

Analyst quote: “Advancements in AI chipsets specifically designed for the edge are noteworthy. Embedding AI chipset in edge hardware such as IPCs and gateway is bringing decision-making closer to the edge and opening doors to new IoT applications such as machine vision.” – Kalpesh Baviskar, Market Analyst—Connectivity and hardware

Trend 3: The race for generative AI solutions in manufacturing has begun

Many industrial generative AI (GenAI)-based solution showcases are popping up. Vendors in the industrial and manufacturing space are racing toward developing GenAI-based solutions around coding, troubleshooting/support, operational analytics, and generative design, among others.

Examples: The following are just two of the six showcase examples found in the State of IoT – Spring 2024 report:

• At SPS 2023, Germany-based automation technology company Beckhoff showcased its TwinCAT Chat for the TwinCAT XAE engineering environment. The TwinCAT Chat Client enables AI-supported engineering to automate tasks such as the creation or addition of function block code, code optimization, documentation, and restructuring.
• In November 2023, Canada-based industrial AI software company Canvass AI announced the next evolution of its industrial AI software with Hyper Data Analysis. Through the use of GenAI, the Canvass
  AI software now incorporates learnings from text and visual-based data—adding it to production data streams—to advance traditional time-series-based AI insights for applications such as visual inspection, predictive maintenance, and quality within the process industries.

Analyst quote: “15 industrial automation and related vendors at SPS 2023 told us that GenAI is currently one of their top technology priorities. Moreover, we observed that these GenAI-based solutions are mostly in the stage of showcasing their capabilities rather than being widely available to the public. We believe this is to evolve in the coming months when vendors will go ‘live’ with these products for purchase.” – Fernando Brügge, Senior Analyst—Industrial IoT and AI

Trend 4: Generative AI has a positive (not negative!) impact on the manufacturing workforce

The race to integrate GenAI solutions in manufacturing—and how it differs from other technologies so far—revolves around the speed of adoption and the level of investment in the technology. Within three months of its public launch, ChatGPT reached an estimated 123 million users, an incredible feat for a new type of product. Additionally, soon after ChatGPT’s launch, Microsoft made a $10 billion investment in OpenAI, helping increase ChatGPT’s profile. This investment also showed the seriousness big tech companies like Microsoft are placing in this technology, leading companies across industries to question how they could leverage GenAI in their processes.

Adoption of new technology in manufacturing is often associated with negative impacts on the workforce. However, GenAI adoption in manufacturing is expected to boost employment and upskilling, shifting focus from automation to strategic growth. With GenAI contributing potentially $2.6–$4.4 trillion to the global economy annually, according to McKinsey, manufacturers are likely to deepen their investment in AI technologies.

However, AI’s impact on the workforce appears counterintuitive to common automation narratives. According to the Manufacturing Leadership Council, 32% of manufacturers anticipate an increase in headcount due to AI, suggesting that AI will create new roles and require upskilling rather than just automating existing ones. With 96% of manufacturers projecting increased investment in AI, there is a clear trend toward embracing AI for cost savings, growth, and revenue generation.

Emerging roles will likely include AI strategy managers and data specialists, reflecting a shift toward higher cognitive work.

Advisor quote: “The urgency for upskilling is underscored by the current lack of a dedicated AI training budget in 65% of manufacturing firms, signaling a potential increase in investment in human capital.” – Jeff Winter, Industry 4.0 expert and advisor

Trend 5: Companies are in danger of neglecting tech adoption basics in the rush to generative AI

GenAI is everywhere. Vendors are looking for ways to implement it in their products or to create new ones, and end users are eager to adopt. This rush, however, is not always helpful when it comes to adopting new technologies. The hype can often shift the mindset of adopters and vendors alike from “What technology should I use to alleviate X pain point?” to “How should I use this technology to alleviate some (sometimes non-existent) pain point?”

In almost all the surveys that IoT Analytics conducts—be it about IoT use case adoption, Industry 4.0, IoT software, or similar—“having a set goal” is always on the list of success factors that respondents mention. This is often forgotten whenever a new technology promises to “change the way we work” (the metaverse, for example).

Analyst quote: “[AI] should be treated like any other technology. First, think of the why, who, and how before deciding on implementing it. Second, if you are a (software) vendor, you should also keep in mind that being fast to innovate is not always the most important factor to keep your customers happy.” – Dimitris Paraskevopoulos, Senior Analyst—Quantitative data

Trend 6: Marketplaces are gaining in importance for technology procurement

Companies and sellers alike are embracing the subscription-based economy and seeking to simplify the procurement process. In January 2024, IoT Analytics published an article delving into the rise of B2B marketplaces, noting that B2B marketplaces are the fastest-growing procurement channel for software.

Analyst quote: “Cloud hyperscaler marketplaces currently lead in cloud-based software spending since many businesses have already committed cloud spending that can be utilized to procure software from these platforms.” – Justina-Alexandra Sava, Market Analyst—Software

Trend 7: Data fabric is emerging as an advanced evolution of data lakes

Though a relatively new term, data fabric describes a comprehensive data integration and management framework. It encompasses architecture, management tools, and shared data sets and is designed to assist organizations in handling their data.

Data fabrics differ from data lakes in that they go beyond storing raw data and from data warehouses in that they handle only processed or refined data. A core benefit of data fabrics is they offer a cohesive, consistent user interface and real-time access to data for all members of an organization, regardless of their global location.

Examples:
In 2023, several large data management vendors either upgraded their already existing data fabric solutions or launched new solutions:

• In February, US-based data integration platform provider Talend—one of the early users of the term data fabric—announced upgrades to their Talend Data Fabric solution, which was initially launched in 2015.
• In May 2023, US-based technology and software company Microsoft introduced Microsoft Fabric and launched it in November.

Analyst quote: “Given the increase in data complexity because of the exponential growth in big data, propelled by hybrid cloud, AI, IoT, and edge computing, there seems to be a good opportunity for vendors [offering data fabric].” – Mohammad Hasan, Market Analyst—Software and cloud

Trend 8: Hyperscalers pivot their edge strategies to innovate and secure their IIoT market position

Cloud providers are strategically adapting to the evolving IIoT market. In recent developments within the IIoT landscape, important shifts have occurred among major cloud service providers, with more focus on edge and containerization strategies.

Examples:

• Microsoft pivots its Azure IoT strategy toward Kubernetes. Microsoft has notably redirected its strategy toward Kubernetes, a move signaling a pivot within its Azure IoT Operations offering. This transition, accompanied by organizational restructuring and the discontinuation of the Azure Certified Device Catalog, highlights how Microsoft’s IoT strategy seems to evolve as technology and market dynamics shift.
• Google ends IoT Core but keeps Manufacturing Connect via Kubernetes. Similarly, Google’s decision to terminate its IoT Core offering in August 2023 has prompted attention. Despite this closure, Google’s IIoT solution, Manufacturing Connect, remains viable through its Kubernetes-compatible architecture, a strategic alignment reflecting the company’s technical prowess in this domain.
• AWS boosts IIoT investment with Sitewise and Monitron enhancements. AWS seems to double down on the IoT edge, which is particularly evident in the revitalization of Sitewise and other offerings like Monitron.

Advisor quote: “As the IIoT market evolves, cloud giants like Microsoft, Google, and AWS are moving further to the edge by embracing Kubernetes and enhancing edge computing capabilities. Their strategies revolve less around serving individual use cases themselves but rather participating in the edge (software) platform layer, which serves as the basis of digitalization for their partners and customers.” – Matthew Wopata, Edge solutions expert

Trend 9: Industrial vendors are strongly investing in DataOps solutions

Several vendors are investing in industrial DataOps solutions to tackle data integration and analysis challenges.
Industrial DataOps is an approach to data integration focusing on enhancing data quality through contextualization and modeling. This approach is experiencing growing attention within the industrial connectivity space.

Examples:

Some of the key vendors that offer industrial DataOps for data contextualization and modeling include:

• New vendors: Cognite – CDF, HighByte – Intelligence Hub, Prosys – OPC UA Forge, Litmus – Litmus Edge, Element – Unify, and Crosser – Flow Studio
• Industrial incumbents: ABB – Ability Genix, Aveva – PI System, Aspentech – Inmation, GE Digital – Asset Modeler, and Halliburton – DecisionSpace 365

Analyst quote: “In the world of AI, OT data stands as the cornerstone. It’s the quality and context of this data that truly empowers insights. We are seeing vendors aggressively advance DataOps tools for modeling and contextualization, with both new entrants and established OEMs perfecting their solutions. This concerted effort underscores the pivotal role of enhancing the quality of data from varied assets/software in unlocking digital transformation’s full potential.” – Anand Taparia, Principal Analyst—Industrial IoT

Trend 10: Robots charged per hour are starting to replace manual labor due to labor shortage

Manufacturing companies can benefit from equipment as a service (EaaS) by replacing labor-related operational expenses with another type of operational expense: robotics as a service (RaaS). RaaS is a relatively new business model, where a robot is provided by a machine builder on an outcome-based basis (paying per parts produced with the equipment) or runtime basis (paying per hours of equipment used) instead of as a direct purchase.

Example: US-based truck trailer chassis manufacturer Cheetah Chassis chose to hire welding robots per hour and explained that it could not find enough welders to fulfill demand. Its CEO, Garry Hartman, explained that it had trialed robotics before, but it was unsuccessful because it did not have the capacity to program and service robots. With RaaS, Cheetah Chassis can now enjoy the benefits of robotics without having to do so because it is provided by the RaaS vendor.

Analyst quote: “Companies are more likely to consume equipment by the hour if they are trying to fill in the gaps in the workforce (which is already paid by the hour) rather than purchasing new equipment.” – Matthieu Kulezak, Senior Analyst—Industrial IoT

Conclusion

The IoT sector is undergoing transformative changes. The new 148-page State of IoT – Spring 2024 report highlights the continuous evolution and resilience of the IoT market, driven by technological advancements and strategic shifts.

The shift of hyperscalers towards edge and containerization strategies, the integration of AI into industrial automation, the advent of generative AI in manufacturing, and the rise of data fabric solutions represent just a few of the dynamic developments redefining the enterprise IoT ecosystem. These trends, alongside other market data in the report, not only reflect the current state of the market but also provide a glimpse at future growth and innovation.

In navigating this landscape, it is crucial for businesses to stay informed and adaptable. With a projected CAGR of 17% until 2030, the potential for growth and transformation in the IoT sector is immense.

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Berg Insight, the world’s leading IoT market research provider, today released new findings about the market for Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).

The estimated market value for ITS deployed in public transport operations in Europe was € 2.15 billion in 2022. Growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3 percent, this number is expected to reach € 2.92 billion by 2027. The North American market for public transport ITS is similarly forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 8.8 percent from € 0.88 billion in 2022 to reach € 1.34 billion in 2027.

Berg Insight is of the opinion that the market for ITS in public transport is in a growth phase which will continue throughout the forecast period. Considerable investment is going toward electrification of the public transport fleet, which will require more sophisticated ITS solutions to operate smoothly. In addition, the increasing demands from travellers for convenience and accessible real-time information contribute to a positive market situation. Governments in both Europe and North America view public transport as a prioritised area for investment. The Canadian government has for example announced a CAD 2.75 billion (€ 2.0 billion) investment toward electric buses, school buses and related charging infrastructure between 2021–2026.

A group of international aftermarket solution providers has emerged as leaders on the market for public transport ITS. Major providers across Europe and North America include Canada-based Trapeze Group and Germany-based INIT, which have significant installed bases in both regions. Clever Devices and Conduent hold leading positions on the North American public transport ITS market. The former has expanded into Europe with an acquisition and the latter is an international provider of fare collection systems. Additional companies with notable market shares in North America include Cubic Transportation Systems and Avail Technologies. Siemens Mobility is a prominent vendor of software in both Europe and North America.

Examples of major vendors on national markets in Europe include EQUANS and RATP Smart Systems, which hold leading positions in France. IVU is an important player primarily in the German-speaking part of Europe. Vix Technology, Flowbird and Ticketer are moreover major providers on the UK market. Other significant players include the Spanish groups GMV, Indra and Grupo ETRA; French Thales; Atron in Germany; Scandinavian FARA, Pilotfish and Consat Telematics; and Austria-based Swarco and Kontron Transportation. Volvo Group and Daimler are moreover notable players from the vehicle OEM segment, while companies such as Scania, Iveco, Gillig and New Flyer also offer some conventional OEM telematics features for their buses.

“We are increasingly seeing that solutions are developed with standardisation and interoperability in mind. ITS solution providers are now for example commonly requesting labels of compliance from standard organisations,” said Caspar Jansson, IoT Analyst at Berg Insight. Interoperability opens up many new possibilities for various stakeholders in the ITS ecosystem.

Mr. Jansson concluded:

“The standardisation efforts enable public transport agencies to combine competitive solutions from multiple vendors in their networks. The first tenders explicitly requiring equipment to be compliant with the ITxPT standard have now been issued.”

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Imagine your coffee maker not only brewing your favorite blend but also earning a small fraction of Bitcoin while doing so. This scenario is not a distant dream but an emerging reality where the Internet of Things (IoT) meets Bitcoin. The world of smart devices is rapidly evolving, and with this evolution comes an unexpected player: cryptocurrency mining.

The Emerging Trend of IoT in Cryptocurrency Mining

Cryptocurrency, especially Bitcoin, has been a hot topic for some years now, on account of its revolutionary impact on finance and technology. If you’re keen to find out more, you can discover more Bitcoin news and analysis on dedicated platforms like NewsBTC.

Traditionally, mining Bitcoin requires significant computational power and energy, often involving large data centers. However, a new trend is emerging where IoT devices are being utilized to assist with mining cryptocurrencies.

This development is not just fascinating but also raises questions about practicality, efficiency, and the future of both IoT and Bitcoin.

How Does It Work?

The concept is straightforward. IoT devices, which include everything from smart fridges to thermostats, are connected to the internet and can perform tasks autonomously. By integrating Bitcoin mining software, these devices could use their processing power to mine cryptocurrencies when they are not in full use.

For instance, your smart TV could mine Bitcoin while you’re not watching it. This approach can turn idle times into productive economic activities, albeit on a small scale.

The Attraction and Challenges

But why would one consider using IoT devices for Bitcoin mining? The main attraction lies in the potential to generate value from devices that are already operational. It’s an innovative way to monetize investments in smart technology.

Additionally, it could also democratize the mining process, which is currently dominated by players with massive computational resources.

Energy Consumption and Sustainability

As we delve deeper into the world of IoT and Bitcoin mining, it’s crucial to address the environmental impact and the ethical considerations that come with it.

On one hand, these devices, when not in use, could provide a more distributed form of mining, potentially reducing the need for large, energy-intensive mining farms. On the other hand, the cumulative impact of numerous devices, each drawing additional power for mining, could add up, contributing to higher overall energy consumption. This scenario becomes particularly concerning when considering the energy mix used to power these devices, which often includes non-renewable sources.
Striking a balance between innovation, profitability, and responsibility is key.

Technical and Security Considerations

However, there are some major challenges to this novel concept. The foremost concern is the capability of IoT devices.

Mining requires considerable processing power, and most IoT devices are not designed for such tasks. This means that the amount of Bitcoin that can be mined through these devices is minimal, raising questions about the viability and profitability of such endeavours.

There are also serious security issues to contend not, not least the ever-present threat of hack attacks.

The Future of IoT and Bitcoin Mining

Looking to the future, the convergence of IoT and Bitcoin mining hints at a fascinating shift. As technology advances, the processing capabilities of IoT devices are likely to improve, potentially making them more suitable for mining activities.

Moreover, this trend could inspire the development of new, more energy-efficient mining algorithms suitable for IoT devices, further integrating the worlds of smart technology and cryptocurrency.

In A Nutshell

The idea of using IoT devices for Bitcoin mining is still in its very early stages, but it’s a concept that holds potential. It represents a unique intersection of two groundbreaking technological trends. While there are practical and technical hurdles to overcome, the prospect of smart devices not just simplifying our lives but also contributing to economic activities is an exciting development.

As with any technological advancement, a careful and considered approach will be essential to navigate the challenges and harness the opportunities that this innovative convergence presents.

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Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, will be participating as an exhibitor and keynote speaker at the upcoming Connected Auto & Electric Vehicles (CAEV) India event, set to take place in Bengaluru.

This prestigious event gathers industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to discuss and showcase the latest trends, technologies, and solutions in the connected auto and electric vehicle sectors. Manfred Lindacher, VP Global Sales Automotive at Quectel Wireless Solutions, is scheduled to deliver one of the opening keynote addresses on the first day of the event.

During the show, Quectel is set to unveil the AW200Z multi-mode smart LTE module equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functionalities, designed with functionality to help meet the requirements of the two-wheeler industry. This innovative module is powered by Qualcomm’s advanced 64-bit quad-core Cortex-A53 processors, coupled with an integrated Adreno 702 GPU.

Designed to meet the diverse requirements of both industrial and consumer sectors, it offers robust performance and versatile multimedia capabilities. With its extensive support and reliability, it stands out as the preferred choice for applications demanding high data rates and long-term usage. The AW200Z harnesses the Qualcomm® QWM2290 SoC and boasts an array of features including Bike-to-Cloud connectivity, seamless integration with Vehicle Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL), and proactive service provision, enabling customers to streamline their two-wheeler application development processes effortlessly.

The module boasts enhanced mobile rendering APIs for image and video applications, leveraging the capabilities of the Adreno 702 GPU. It also provides worldwide LTE, UMTS/HSPA+, and GSM/GPRS/EDGE coverage, along with dual ISPs and support for up to 25 MP camera @ 30 fps, enabling seamless recording and playback of 1080P videos @ 30 fps. Additionally, its multi-constellation GNSS receiver ensures fast and accurate fixes in various environments, making it ideal for applications requiring precise location services.

“Participating in CAEV India is a fantastic opportunity for Quectel to demonstrate our commitment to the Indian market and our leading position in the global IoT and automotive sectors,” said Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions.

“We’re also delighted to introduce the AW200Z smart module, ideal for customers in the two-wheeler industry.”

During the event, Quectel will showcase its full range of cellular, C-V2X, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, ultra-wideband and smart automotive products and solutions, engineered to meet the rigorous demands of the industry, offering high performance, low latency, and robust security features essential for connected vehicles and autonomous driving technologies.

Demonstrations from both Quectel and Ikotek will include:

• Smart Instrumental Cluster by Longxin Electronic Technology: This advanced cluster features Bluetooth-enabled keyless unlocking, one-button start functionality, and supports a range of unlocking methods including Bluetooth, NFC, App, and mobile phone NFC. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with a rear-mounted 4G communication box for enhanced connectivity. With built-in alarm and flasher capabilities, it offers comprehensive security features. Furthermore, it supports one-wire/485 connectivity for versatile integration.
• BMS 4G Cloud Box: This cutting-edge device features LTE Cat 1 connectivity for high-speed data transfer. It supports Base Station Positioning for accurate location tracking. Compatible with one-wire/485 connections, it offers versatile integration capabilities. It also boasts IP65 rating for durability and resilience against environmental factors.
• 4G Battery-Powered Tracker: Equipped with LTE Cat 1 connectivity, this tracker ensures fast and reliable data transmission. It features GPS/BeiDou/Base Station Positioning for precise location tracking. Optional serial/485 connectivity offers flexibility in integration and additionally, it supports patch cards and has an IP67 rating, making it durable and suitable for various environmental conditions.
• T-BOX B: This advanced device operates on LTE Cat 1 network, providing robust connectivity. It utilizes GPS/BeiDou/Base Station Positioning for accurate location tracking. With support for CAN/485/Wireless connections, it offers versatile integration options. This device can also accommodate patch cards and features a built-in battery for uninterrupted operation. Furthermore, it includes an integrated alarm system for enhanced security.

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Tele2 AB (“Tele2”) and the q-trade platform foodora announce today that they will launch food deliveries using IoT and 5G connected drones.

The deliveries will be made wherever possible to the customers’ property or garden and lowered with a cable from the drone, with the first deliveries taking place already in the spring on Värmdö, outside Stockholm.

Now launching foodora Air, which is a fleet of electric drones that, with the help of 5G technology from Tele2, will provide fast and efficient delivery service of food from a number of restaurants on Värmdö, outside Stockholm. Aerit, a technology leader in the drone industry, has developed advanced drones integrated into foodora’s technology platform to create a seamless and efficient delivery experience connected with the latest 5G technology from Tele2.

Stefan Trampus, Executive Vice President B2B at Tele2, says:

“This marks a new era in how people receive deliveries, and we believe we can see more applications in other industries. For us at Tele2, the partnership with foodora is a perfect example of how we can use our 5G connectivity and expertise to drive future delivery services in a simple, sustainable, and smart way, while providing customers with an extraordinary experience.”

The drones have a range of 21 kilometers and emit 2 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer, which can be compared to traditional gasoline or diesel-powered delivery vehicles that emit 143 and 110 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer, respectively.

“Technology and connectivity have the potential to break many of the limitations that currently exist in rural areas, where access to various services and products has decreased in line with rapid urbanization,” Stefan Trampus concludes.

Deliveries will, where possible, be made directly to customers’ properties or gardens and lowered with a cable from the air. Deliveries will commence in May on Värmdö, and food can be ordered through the foodora app. The goal is to expand to more areas in Sweden so that more locations can have access to the same service available in major cities.

“We are proud to be the first in Europe to launch real drone deliveries, and we are excited to have Tele2 and Aerit as partners on this exciting journey. Fast home deliveries are a democratic issue, in my opinion. Regardless of where you are in the country, it should be possible to quickly get what you need, such as medicines or groceries. It should not only be available to people who have chosen to settle in big cities,” concludes Daniel Gustafsson Raba, Director Operations at foodora.

Tele2 will provide continuous connectivity for the drones based on 5G IoT (Internet of Things) technology. Drones require both short response times and the ability to send and receive large amounts of data to handle deliveries safely, supported by 5G.

Technical information foodora Air:

• Maximum range: 21 kilometers
• Maximum delivery range: 12 kilometers
• Maximum delivery weight: 4 kilograms
• Weather capacity: Can fly in rain, wind, and snow

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Omnispace, the company redefining mobile connectivity for the 21st century, today announced a collaboration with MTN, the largest mobile network operator in Africa.

MTN provides voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to over 290 million customers in 19 countries. This partnership will explore the use of S-band for satellite services to expand MTN’s portfolio of wireless service in their markets.

This initiative underscores Omnispace and MTN’s joint commitment to developing cost-effective global connectivity solutions beyond existing cellular, land-based networks. The companies will explore the integration of MTN’s terrestrial mobile networks with the Omnispace non-terrestrial (NTN) network, leveraging 3GPP standards, to serve consumer mobile and enterprise IoT services. Furthermore, the companies will also explore how they may collaborate on the development and growth of an ecosystem of devices and software.

“This collaborative effort would offer access to secure, cost-effective, ubiquitous 5G mobile connectivity by seamlessly integrating our respective satellite and terrestrial networks,” said Ram Viswanathan, CEO of Omnispace. “Omnispace is pleased to work together with MTN to deliver this first-of-its-kind, 3GPP standards-based solution to add non-terrestrial network connectivity to a large ecosystem of compatible devices, products and applications.”

Mazen Mroué, MTN Group Chief Technology and Information Officer, said:

“Through this collaboration, we aim to methodically extend the reach of our services, understanding the profound role connectivity plays in shaping societies and supporting growth.”

“Our partnership with Omnispace is a strategic step towards ensuring consistent, reliable access to our network, contributing to the foundational infrastructure that supports a digitally inclusive future, enabling the benefits of a modern connected life for all.”

Under the agreement, Omnispace will develop a next-generation standards-based mobile and IoT network designed to serve MTN markets. In the interim, the companies will partner to test existing technology, prove capabilities, and use cases using Omnispace’s on-orbit satellites.

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It will begin to recurrently bill €187 million in binding orders signed with 350 clients in over 50 countries.

Sateliot, the first company to operate a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) 5G IoT satellite constellation acting as a seamless roaming extension of cellular networks, will launch four new satellites into space this year with SpaceX.

With the deployment of these four satellites plus the two already orbiting the Earth, Sateliot enters the first phase of its constellation, opening its commercial phase.

Sateliot, which counts partners such as Indra, Cellnex, or Sepides, will begin billing the €187 million of binding orders with over 350 clients in more than 50 countries worldwide. With these recurring revenues, the company aims to generate €500 million in revenue by 2027 and become a one billion revenue company by 2030.

The Spanish company has recently raised €13.5 million; of these, €6 million came from Banco Santander, €5 million from a convertible note, and the remaining €2.5 million from a participative loan from the public company Avançsa. These funds, along with the start of Series B, will allow it to advance its technology development, launch the four satellites, and strengthen the human team for the complete deployment of its constellation in 2027/2028, providing real-time coverage worldwide.

What are the satellites like?

The satellites consist of 4 cubesats, each 20 x 10 x 35 centimeters in size. They are the size of a microwave and have a net weight of 10 kilograms. They will orbit at an altitude of between 500 and 600 kilometers, have a lifespan of five years, and cover 100% of the planet.

However, the fundamental part of these satellites lies in their interior, supported by their own innovative technology tested and validated by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the 3GPP, the organization that periodically brings together the main actors in the telecommunications sector. This technology is standard and democratic, open to all citizens, public administrations, and companies.

Being standard makes it scalable, easy to maintain, and updated, allowing for the progressive deployment of the constellation according to customer demands. It starts with connectivity services for IoT applications such as agriculture, which only require two daily messages, and ends with real-time services worldwide. In this way, Sateliot can provide service with its first-phase constellation as opposed to other companies that need to deploy
many more satellites for a similar commercial start.

Sateliot is renowned worldwide for satellite IoT and is one of the main companies driving the Spanish New Space, a strategic sector that has taken advantage of technological advances, reduced development times, and low investment costs to give renewed impetus to the industry.

Jaume Sanpera, CEO and co-founder of Sateliot said,

“We are ready to enter a new dimension, both technologically and commercially. We are closer to becoming the first IoT constellation operating worldwide under the 5G standard. And we will place Spain at the forefront of the New Space revolution.”

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The Helium IoT Network expands into the maritime domain, supporting SkyNet IoT’s existing customers in the Netherlands and expansion into Boca Raton, Florida.

The Helium Foundation, stewards of the Helium Network, the world’s first and largest decentralized wireless network powered by blockchain, today announced SkyNet IoT, a LoRaWAN multi-network hosting and roaming provider, is integrating with the Helium Network.

The Dutch-based company is expanding its IoT solutions to South Florida in 2024, leveraging the Helium Network in the U.S.

SkyNet IoT hosts and facilitates seamless roaming across multiple LoRa networks. One of their key sensor deployments focuses on the North Sea, which lacks reliable Internet connectivity despite its heavy maritime traffic and commerce. The decision to build solutions on the Helium Network signifies a major expansion of SkyNet IoT’s network and continues to broaden Helium’s reach beyond terrestrial areas into the maritime sector.

“We are thrilled SkyNet IoT is integrating to roam on Helium to connect the unconnected regions across the world,” said Abhay Kumar, Helium Foundation CEO.

“The permissionless, ubiquitous, and affordable nature of the Helium Network has lowered the barriers to entry, empowering more businesses and ultimately, consumers, to benefit from IoT solutions and the products they enable.”

The Helium Network, which has expanded global LoRaWAN coverage significantly, opens the door to countless IoT applications that will provide valuable insights about conditions in the water and on land. SkyNet IoT has already deployed thousands of sensors transmitting data over the Helium Network and has plans to install several hundred more in South Florida this year. Sensors onboard marine vessels provide real-time intelligence on water detection, tank contents, inclination angles, accelerations, vibrations, forces on cables, temperature and gas levels.

The expansion of SkyNet IoT into South Florida is expected to further propel the region’s technological and economic growth with key sectors such as agriculture and maritime safety through collaboration with local municipalities, port authorities and businesses.

“The synergy of SkyNet IoT and the Helium Network strengthens our position as leaders in advancing IoT connectivity on a global scale,” said Remy De Jong, SkyNet IoT Founder. “We are building much-needed wireless infrastructure along the major coasts and harbors to gather real-time intelligence that ensures the safety of the people who live and work in these areas.”

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According to a new report from the IoT analyst firm Berg Insight, the installed base of smart gas meters in Europe amounted to 55.9 million in 2023, equivalent to a penetration rate of 45 percent.

The installed base is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 6.8 percent between 2023 and 2028, reaching 77.6 million units at the end of the period. Annual shipment volumes amounted to 4.8 million units in 2023 and are expected to be around 5.0–5.8 million throughout the forecast period.

The UK, Italy and Belgium were the most active markets, together accounting for 86 percent of all smart gas meter shipments during the year. While the rollouts in Italy, France and the Netherlands are largely completed, the UK market is finally after several delays ramping up yearly installations to reach a peak of 3.2–3.4 million units per year during 2024–2025. Belgium and Ireland are two other markets that are expected to contribute with significant shipment volumes in the coming years. The Spanish market is expected to reach yearly shipment volumes of 1.0 million units by the end of the forecast period.

The smart gas meters deployed in Europe have over the past years not been networked in quite the same way as their counterparts in the electricity sector. A common model, observed in the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium, is to utilize a local wireless or wired interface to transmit gas data via the customer’s smart electricity meter. A mix of 169 MHz RF and 2G/3G cellular communications has meanwhile been the primary model for the largest projects in which smart gas meters have been deployed independently of smart electricity meters, such as in Italy and France. A change of the status quo is likely on the horizon as new types of LPWA technologies have become more readily available in the past couple of years.

Mattias Carlsson, IoT Analyst at Berg Insight, said:
“The Italian gas sector was the first in Europe to initiate large-scale adoption of NB-IoT as a primary smart meter connectivity choice and in 2023 the installed base of gas meters with NB-IoT connectivity in the country reached more than 2.5 million at the end of the year. We anticipate that by the end of the forecast period NB-IoT will become the go-to connectivity option for smart gas meters, not only in Italy but also in several other European markets.”

The composition of communications technologies in the installed base of smart gas meters has already begun to shift in favor of new LPWA technologies. 169 MHz still however remains the most popular communications technology with a market share of around 37 percent at the end of 2023, while Zigbee boasted a market share of 26 percent. By 2026, Zigbee is expected to surpass 169 MHz as the most prevalent connectivity option with an installed base of 23.4 million – a number that is further forecasted to increase to 25.5 million in 2028.

NB-IoT/LTE-M is expected to be the fastest growing connectivity option at a CAGR of 35 percent during 2023–2028 to reach an installed base of around 13.2 million units in 2028 and accounting for as much as 60 percent of yearly shipment volumes at the end of the forecast period.

Another emerging technology trend is the anticipated increase in the use of hydrogen in European gas supply operations.

Mr. Carlsson concluded:

“Projects are currently underway in for example the UK and Italy that pilots metering devices capable of measuring either pure hydrogen or a blend of hydrogen and natural gas. The interest in hydrogen meters is anticipated to increase as the technology matures.”

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The past few years have seen remarkable growth in the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) across industries like healthcare, business, and finance. In fact, a previous post illustrates how this trend is poised to remain throughout 2024 as the IoT landscape continues to transform when powered by other emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.

For instance, the combination of AI and ML can aid in predictive maintenance and energy management, while also being compatible with IoT management platforms for overall operational efficiency. However, new priorities arise with these changes, such as enhanced cybersecurity in IoT networks to preserve data integrity and device security and energy efficiency to reduce waste and contribute to sustainability goals.

Despite IoT delivering productivity and efficiency at a large scale, its increasing rate of development and adoption can also have drawbacks in terms of prolonged screen time. Considering the average screen time of users worldwide is six hours and 37 minutes per day, this means that professionals developing IoT systems or individuals who utilise IoT for work, education, and daily life expose themselves to the blue light emitted by digital devices.

As the article will discuss, the long-term consequences of blue light exposure raise the need to include digital eye health and safety among the priorities in this modern, IoT-focused era.

Prolonged exposure to blue light in the digital age

As IoT networks are increasingly becoming essential for productivity, users must be careful of the blue light from smartphones, computers, tablets, and other digital devices. 2022 research published in the journal Heliyon notes that despite blue light influencing visual performance in terms of the perception of visual stimuli and contrast sensitivity, these artificial sources of blue light raise a myriad of health concerns.

Since blue light has a higher photon energy than other wavelengths of visible light, it can cause retinal damage and increase the risk of ocular conditions like macular degeneration. Blue light has also been linked to computer vision syndrome, which can manifest as symptoms like blurry vision, headache, dry eyes, and eye discomfort and fatigue. If left unregulated, excessive absorption of blue light can also disrupt the body’s natural sleep patterns, ultimately affecting health and quality of life.

The increasing need for eye-healthy tech

Fortunately, the prevailing health concerns associated with blue light from IoT devices can be mitigated with the help of other technologies. Among these are blue light glasses, which provide digital protection and visual comfort by filtering harmful blue-violet light and only allowing blue-turquoise light to enter the eye for increased alertness. Eyewear retailer Eyebuydirect even offers a wide range of blue-light filtering lens options, from EBDBlue Plus for everyday use to EBDBlue 360 for premium anti-glare. These lens options are applicable whether the user wears prescription glasses for vision correction or non-prescription ones for eye care and maintenance.

Protective features against blue light can also be integrated into the IoT devices themselves to minimise visual damage. For example, Eyesafe recently introduced Eyesafe RPF60, a patented blue light filtration technology that reduces 60% of blue light at the wavelengths that matter most (435-440nm). When applied to digital screens, this innovative light absorption technology can protect users from the negative effects of blue light without compromising quality and colour performance. Additionally, Eyesafe has updated the specifications for RPF Radiance Protection Factor for screen accessories, allowing consumers to choose displays that are tested and assigned a protective rating.

Lastly, IoT itself can be deployed to regulate blue light exposure and maintain optimal eye health. Australian-owned hardware company Ams released the AS7264N tri-stimulus sensor to measure blue-light wavelengths in lit environments and ensure it closely matches the human eye’s response to the visible light spectrum. The sensor is small and low-cost, and can be installed in displays, lighting systems, and smart building automation or management solutions. Overall, this makes the device useful in protecting end-users from blue light’s adverse health effects across commercial, residential, and industrial settings.

Clearly, blue light exposure in this digital age is not something that can simply be overlooked. As IoT devices, networks, and systems that serve as artificial sources of blue light become a part of everyday life, it is worth investing in tech like blue light-filtering glasses, monitors, and sensors for optimal eye health and sight preservation.

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Suntec City Office Towers, an iconic integrated commercial development located in the Marina Bay Precinct within Singapore’s Central Business District, embarks on a comprehensive refurbishment project with UnaBiz, Massive IoT service provider and integrator.

The large-scale project includes the replacement of existing key equipment to enhance the reliability of the Air-Conditioning and Mechanical Ventilation (ACMV) system, and the installation of an indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring solution to improve air quality standards and enhance the comfort of tenants in the office environment.

Suntec City is a landmark development which comprises five Grade A office towers, a world-class convention and exhibition centre, and one of Singapore’s largest shopping malls, all of which are interlinked by street-level plazas and underground walkways.

Over the next six months, UnaBiz will work together with ACMV expert, D-Team Engineering, to

1. Replace the Air Handling Unit (AHU) at the plant room located adjacent to the service corridor.
2. Replace the Variable Volume Air (VAV) Controller sets located within the office areas.
3. Deploy close to 800 wireless IAQ monitoring sensors and 50 LoRaWAN gateways to monitor the IAQ levels of all five Suntec City Office Towers to ensure consistent IAQ standards and monitor the performance of the new ACMV systems.

“Suntec City is dedicated to enhancing workspace comfort and upholding a commitment to environmental sustainability through the use of more energy-efficient equipment,” said Steven Kong, Senior Manager of Operations of APM Property Management.

“The main purpose of the rejuvenation plan is to help maintain comfort and a stable temperature in all five office towers. A data-driven ACMV system ensures good air quality for shoppers and tenants, while a high energy-efficiency system helps optimise energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions.”

The Suntec office towers comprise five buildings named Towers One through Five with four containing 45 stories and one 18 stories. The latter has 28,000 square feet of net lettable floor area on each floor while the 45-storey towers consist of floor plates ranging from 10,000 to 14,000 square feet. UnaBiz will be installing Milesight IAQ sensors and gateways, with Actility ThingPark Enterprise on-premises IoT platform on a LoRaWAN network for this project. The deployment will be carried out in phases starting with Tower 4, followed by Tower 2, Tower 3, Tower, 1 and Tower 5. In total, there are about 2.3 million square feet of office space. Tower One to Four is 45-storey representing the 4 fingers and Tower 5 is 18-storey representing the thumb.

The IAQ sensor utilised by UnaBiz is a comprehensive 9-in-1 solution that integrates nine types of sensors to measure various ambience conditions including CO2 concentration, temperature, humidity, light, TVOC, barometric pressure, PM2.5, PM10, formaldehyde and motion. This energy-efficient sensor is designed for real-time monitoring and collecting reliable IAQ data 24/7.

Mr Jonathan Tan, Managing Director of UnaBiz Singapore said, “As an IoT service provider and integrator, we are pleased to work with D-Team Engineering, Actility and Milesight to help bring this project to life. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated to us the importance of IAQ monitoring as the majority of us spend our time indoors. By integrating indoor IAQ monitoring with the new ACMV system, Suntec City can prioritise tenant well-being, and optimise airflow and energy consumption through data-driven ventilation. This integrated solution can help Suntec City achieve both their Social and Environmental goals.”

“Actility is thrilled to provide its QoS-based LoRaWAN IoT mediation solution that will ensure reliable wireless communication towards the whole Suntec complex. Helping to solve real problems with improved air quality and reduced carbon emission is the goal of our communication solutions and part of Actility Core values. We are proud to partner with UnaBiz on such a large-scale project,” said Alban Médici, APAC Managing Director of Actility.

“Milesight is dedicated to promoting greener buildings and enhancing the comfort of its tenants. Utilising our advanced 9-in-1 IAQ sensors and LoRaWAN gateways, building managers can enable optimised, data-driven air quality and streamlined operations for Suntec City Office Towers, effectively elevating its air quality standards and enhancing its tenant’s comfort and well-being,” said Leon Jiang, Vice President of Milesight.

The phased refurbishment works are expected to be completed by 2024 and will continue to strengthen the value propositions of the office towers.

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Tele2 IoT launches international rollout of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) services, which will provide the voice call technology required by our customers to operate voice calls in the 4G network globally.

As 2G and 3G are sunsetting across the globe, and everything connected to these old networks stops working, it is important to provide options for IoT customers using traditional voice services. The rollout of VoLTE in Tele2’s Swedish network, as well as in selected networks across the globe, will enable Tele2 IoT customers to use next-generation technology to cater to their voice call needs.

The use of VoLTE will enhance coverage across the globe by seamlessly leveraging efficient future-proof network technology. The launch of VoLTE is also a significant milestone in Tele2’s sustainability efforts, as it will enable IoT-customers to move to the new generation of more energy efficient devices.

“Voice services play an important role in IoT deployments, particularly those having mission-critical applications. Enabling VoLTE for IoT customers marks a significant milestone in our ability to serve our customers’ needs. This launch reflects Tele2’s commitment to excellence and is in line with our vision to enable a society of unlimited possibilities.” says Cyril Deschanel, Managing Director of IoT at Tele2.

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is a powerful alternative to the current 2G/3G voice service, delivering superior voice clarity, faster data speeds, and extended battery life for IoT devices. With the full launch of VoLTE now complete, this means Tele2 IoT can globally support VoLTE on any SIM provided by Tele2.

Most operators are already in the process of shutting down 3G, with 2G closure not far behind. For Tele2, in Sweden 2G/3G will be fully sunsetted by December 2025, which means it is crucial that devices are ready in good time. Mission-critical applications in healthcare, for example, are particularly dependent on a high-quality voice function.

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Missions include a constellation satellite for monitoring methane gas emissions and two satellites for the world’s largest 5G Narrowband-IoT constellation

Kongsberg NanoAvionics (“NanoAvionics”), a leading smallsat bus manufacturer and mission integrator, has announced that four of its manufactured satellites are going into orbit aboard the upcoming SpaceX Transporter-10 mission.

NanoAvionics’s three customers on this rideshare mission are Luxembourg’s OQ Technology, the world’s first global satellite 5G IoT (Internet of Things) operator, Spanish Earth observation (EO) company Satlantis, and South Korea’s Contec, a ground station operator and service provider.

OQ Technology’s Tiger-7 and Tiger-8 nanosatellites will expand the world’s first and largest 5G Narrowband-IoT constellation in low Earth orbit (LEO) to ten satellites. The two 6U nanosatellites constitute the fifth and sixth satellite that NanoAvionics has manufactured for OQ Technology. All of OQ Technology’s constellation satellites can connect directly to off-the-shelf IoT devices and machines and provide tracking and monitoring information.

The 16U HORACIO satellite will be Satlantis’ third satellite embarking its iSIM-90 imager into space. Its high-resolution data will give insights for multiple EO applications, such as infrastructure monitoring, methane gas emissions quantification, food security, and coastal and border awareness.

The “CONTECSAT-1” satellite is aimed at companies and organisations requiring data for maritime environments, city management, and agriculture. The 16U nanosatellite has an integrated multispectral imager, supplied by a NanoAvionics’s partner, with 1,5 m resolution. It will enable Contec to produce customised satellite imagery for their customers.

Žilvinas Kvedaravičius, CEO of Kongsberg NanoAvionics, said: “Our continued record of successfully building and launching nano- and microsatellites for individual missions as well as constellations is testimony to our position as the one of the prime smallsat manufacturers and mission operators in the US and Europe. The ongoing satellite production for existing customers is also an endorsement and validation of the high-quality and cost-effectiveness of our products and services. As a result, NanoAvionics has successfully launched more nanosatellites in the past five years than any other external manufacturer in the world, and we see a surging demand for our microsatellite buses, too.”

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During MWC Barcelona 2024, Liu Kang, President of Huawei ICT Marketing & Solution Sales, delivered a keynote speech titled “Embracing 5.5G to Unleash Industry Dividends” at the 5G Advanced: Completing the Enterprise Opportunity conference.

Liu Kang said that 5G has become a must for industry digitalization and that upgrading to 5.5G is expected to enhance network capabilities by 10-fold.

This, he noted, will drive industries to accelerate intelligent digital transformation and further unleash industry dividends.

Supported by 5.5G’s key features such as 10 Gbps downlink, 1 Gbps uplink, deterministic network, support for 100 billion IoT connections, and native intelligence, operators can provide enterprise users with better connectivity services and a wider range of integrated ICT services. Such services will effectively support the core production processes of enterprises, and enable the all-scenario connection of things and more reliable intelligent transportation, thus accelerating both social and economic development.

Providing better connectivity services to enhance SME connectivity

Supported by 5.5G, FWA will continue evolving towards FWA² that features 20-ms low latency and high reliability. Operators will replace microwave lines and low-speed copper lines with better connectivity services, extending FWA services from home to enterprise scenarios, enhancing the connectivity of SMEs and maximizing network value.

Offering a wider range of integrated ICT services to accelerate industry digitalization

With its enhanced capabilities, 5.5G provides guaranteed speeds of 300 Mbps, 20-ms latency at 99.999% reliability. Furthermore, by supporting additional industry demands, such as networking, computing, cloud, and IoT, 5.5G will create “X capabilities” for industries, driving the digitalization and automation of more application scenarios in the future.

Providing effective support for enterprises’ core production processes to increase production efficiency

5.5G enables uplink rates up to 1 Gbps, latency as low as 4 ms, and reliability as high as 99.999%. These capabilities can effectively support the core production processes of enterprises, significantly enhancing their production efficiency. Taking production at coal mines as an example, many underground mines have a fully-mechanized mining face that is longer than 100 meters. Thanks to 5.5G’s ultra-large uplink capability, over 100 HD cameras can be deployed for real-time video uploading, and AI technology is employed to stitch panoramic videos from fully-mechanized mining faces. This 5.5G smart mine solution realizes “see all, see clearly” for underground operations. This is how 5.5G technology can contribute to health and safety regarding underground mining.

Adapting to IoT requirements across all scenarios to accelerate the development of a market of 100 billion IoT connections

5.5G enhancements can be seen in areas like uplink bandwidth, latency, positioning, and passive tagging, which can meet IoT requirements across all scenarios. The declining cost of RedCap and passive IoT devices is driving the IoT market to scale up faster and move towards achieving 100 billion IoT connections.

Enabling vehicle-road collaboration to improve driving safety and traffic management efficiency

By the end of 2023, the global connected vehicle count had reached 350 million. 5.5G Macro Sites enableto deliver low latency of 20 ms and high reliability of 99%, thereby accelerating vehicle-road collaboration for enhanced driving safety and traffic management efficiency. This solution has been verified from end to end in Shanghai, and is projected to improve traffic management efficiency by 30% and reduce average commute times by 20%. Liu Kang noted that close industry partnerships are instrumental in unlocking the benefits of 5.5G. Huawei is committed to working with industry and ecosystem partners to explore the wide-ranging applications of 5.5G technology, and bring about a new era of intelligent interconnection of industry applications. This will enable all participants to benefit from 5.5G development and enjoy shared success.

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