Partners deploying IoT, M2M trial network using T-Mobile base stations
Mobile operator T-Mobile, along with Blue Cell Network and Sigfox, are conducting a three-month pilot project that will build out an “Internet of Things” network in Prague.
Results from the trial are set to be analyzed this summer and the three companies plan to decide whether to pursue a build-out covering the Czech Republic using T-Mobile-managed base stations.
The wireless deployment will use Sigfox’s Ultra Narrow Band connection technology, which is touted as providing scalable, long-range, two-way connectivity between devices. Hardware installed on T-Mobile cell towers will push data for IoT and machine-to-machine purposes.
Milan Haba, innovations director at T-Mobile, said IoT promises to allow “any device or object [to] be able to transmit information via the Internet, which will facilitate a number of everyday activities and increase their efficiency.
“Therefore,” he continued, “we have teamed up with Blue Cell Network to introduce the Sigfox network, which has been proven in other countries to be one of the world’s best IoT solutions, in the Czech Republic.”
Sigfox EVP of international business development Rodolphe Baronnet-Fruges, said Sigfox has already deployed IoT-specific networks in more than a dozen European countries and major cities with great success.
“We are excited to bring the benefits of cost-effective and energy-efficient Internet of Things connectivity to the Czech Republic,” Baronnet-Fruges said.
Sigfox is headquartered in Labege, France, with offices in Madrid and San Francisco.