Ericsson says upgrades to its cellular networking software will help operators accelerate the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) by enhancing indoor coverage and enabling cheaper, more energy efficient devices.
The equipment manufacturer predicts there will be 26 billion connected devices by the end of the decade, including seven billion M2M devices. This, it says, will add strain to cellular networks, especially in indoor areas where a significant proportion of use occurs.
Another update, Ericsson IoT Networks Software 16B, also improves indoor reception on 3G networks by up to seven times – allowing low rate applications to function in remote locations and even underground.
Software 16B also supports LTE Category 0 – a simplified version of LTE which can reduce device costs by 60 percent. Many leading smartphones support LTE Cat 4 and above, but given M2M devices perform more simple tasks than handsets, such complex technology is not required. The software also improve battery life with a new deep sleep state as Ericsson works towards its goal of a ten year lifespan for M2M devices.
Finally, Software 16B allows for the prioritisation of traffic in certain situations. For example transmissions from a health device might take precedence over a recycling bin and some low priority systems can even disconnect for a while to preserve bandwidth. Of course, such functionality might depend on local net neutrality laws.
“We are accelerating IoT growth on existing LTE and GSM networks to ensure a global foundation for a vast range of new consumer, industry and government applications, from Smart Cities to connected farms,” said Arun Bansal, senior vice president and head of business unit radio at Ericsson.
Are you up to speed on 4G? Try our quiz!
Tesla makes key advances toward advanced self-driving rollout in China as chief Elon Musk meets…
New UK rules bring in basic security requirements for millions of internet-connected devices, aiming to…
Google parent Alphabet sees market capitalisation surge over $2tn on plan to over first-ever cash…
Google asks Virginia federal court to dismiss case brought by US Justice Department and eight…
Snapchat parent Snap reports user growth, revenues in spite of tough competition, in what may…
Quick-growing fast-fashion company Shein must comply with most stringent level of EU digital rules after…