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Ericsson launches IoT network services

DUBAI, July 12, 2017

Ericsson, a world leading telecoms technology provider, has launched network services to help service providers address the deployment and operation of the massive number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices being introduced to LTE networks.

With the first commercial IoT networks being introduced, this launch complements the cellular IoT software and IoT Accelerator offerings, said the company in a statement.

Applicable for Cat-M1 (also called LTE-M) and Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) technologies, these services include IoT network design and optimisation, deployment, operation and management, and are supported by the recently expanded Support Services offering, it added.

Peter Laurin, the head of business area managed services, Ericsson, said: "We anticipate IoT devices will surpass mobile phones as the largest category of connected devices as early as 2018 and, according to Ericsson’s latest Mobility Report, there will be 18 billion connected IoT devices in 2022."

"This massive uptake requires a different approach to network planning, design, operations and capabilities than traditional mobile broadband networks," noted Laurin.

Ericsson is also introducing new IoT software features, such as Voice over LTE (VoLTE) support for Cat-M1.

This will enable operators to explore new use cases in which it can be advantageous for IoT devices to support voice services, opening up opportunities to expand enterprise services to areas such as security alarm panels, remote first-aid kits, wearables, digital locks, disposable security garments, and other types of IoT-enabled applications and services.

Network design and optimization: Heterogeneous IoT networks and diverse use cases with varying needs will require a different approach to network planning and design. To support this, Ericsson is introducing scenario assessment, network modelling, design development, and developmental appraisal for massive IoT networks, said the report.

Jamie Moss, the principal analyst, Consumer Technology and IoT at Ovum, said: "Operators need partners that can help them to introduce new technologies smoothly and quickly. This is especially true in the case of LTE-M and NB-IoT. As enhancements to LTE, they appear to represent the operators’ core competency."

"But LTE-M and NB-IoT will be used, and will be required to perform, in ways that are completely new. Their rollout, the handling of the traffic they generate and the management of the services they exist to enable require network services that offer a comprehensive portfolio of abilities," noted Moss.

"Machine learning and artificial intelligence are not just buzzwords, but are vital and exciting tools being employed by Ericsson for use within a network to help operators manage the many new devices they will need to serve in the future," he added.

The Ericsson network services and VoLTE for IoT software support in radio and core networks are commercially available now.-TradeArabia News Service




Tags: Ericsson | IoT |

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