Telecoms and broadband giant BT (EE) has today launched a new multi-million-pound Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network, which is a low-power and long-range fixed wireless network that claims to cover 97% of the UK’s “outdoor population” (not geography) and will be used to connect sensors or other smart IoT devices.
The new standards-based NB-IoT network is a type of Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWA), which is similar but different from LTE-M and will harness EE’s licensed 1800MHz spectrum band. It can also co-exist with existing 2G, 3G, and 4G mobile networks.
Just to be clear, these aren’t particularly fast networks in terms of data connectivity, which is because their goal is more to support – in a low-cost way – “smart city” style initiatives across industries such as utilities, construction, and the public sector (i.e. connecting tiny – often battery powered – IoT sensors, such as for monitoring water supplies, air quality or embedded in street lighting etc.).
The rollout of the network will allow BT to help fast-track ‘smart cities’ of the future through use cases that include monitoring and optimising energy use, storage, and distribution. The agricultural industry will also stand to benefit from IoT connectivity, with BT having previously trialled sensors to monitor haystack temperature and prevent fire risks, as well as safekeeping of livestock through gate sensors.
Chris Keone, MD of Division X at BT, said:
“Growing numbers of businesses are beginning to realise the benefits of IoT applications, and our UK-wide NB-IoT network opens up a wide range of connectivity solutions for monitors, sensors, and other smart devices. Whether it’s building the smart cities of the future or reducing carbon emissions, our network will provide customers with the reliability and efficiency they need.”
The network will add to BT’s existing IoT portfolio, which includes eSIMs and IoT national roaming SIMs for UK businesses, offering greater connectivity to customers on the move or in remote locations.
Tyler Fields is your internet guru, delving into the latest trends, developments, and issues shaping the online world. With a focus on internet culture, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, Tyler keeps readers informed about the dynamic landscape of the internet and its impact on our digital lives.
