M1 to deploy NB-IoT network by 2017
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M1 and Nokia have teamed up to roll out the first nationwide commercial narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network in Singapore by 2017.
When completed, the deployment – Nokia’s first large-scale deployment with an operator partner in Asia – is expected to be among the world’s first commercial NB-IoT deployments.
NB-IoT networks and devices are designed to deliver improved network performance for M2M (machine-to-machine) communications – low-bandwidth, robust indoor penetration, and low power consumption, while delivering the benefits of licensed spectrum such as network reliability and security.
The NB-IoT standards were finalized by the GSMA Standards body 3GPP in June 2016. Commercial NB-IoT devices are expected to be available by mid-2017.
According to Bell Labs Consulting, there will be up to five billion IoT devices connected through mobile networks by 2020. In Singapore, NB-IoT deployment will support the nation’s journey to become a Smart Nation underpinned by data to deliver anticipatory services to its people.
“NB-IoT is emerging to be a potentially promising technology for smart city’s machine-to-machine type of applications and services. We look forward to working with NB-IoT partners to explore the use of NB-IoT in developing innovative Smart Nation services that improve our citizens’ lives and make our businesses more productive,” said Jacqueline Poh, Chief Executive-designate, Government Technology Agency (GovTech).
Sandeep Girotra, Nokia’s Senior Vice President of Asia-Pacific and Japan, said Nokia’s joint collaboration of NB-IoT deployment with M1 lays an important groundwork for further application of LTE-based IoT services.
M1 also recently announced it is working with Nokia on Singapore’s first commercial HetNet deployment.
Questions & Answers
Q.When is the NB-IoT network in Singapore expected to be fully deployed?
When is the NB-IoT network in Singapore expected to be fully deployed?
The nationwide commercial narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network in Singapore is planned to be rolled out by 2017. Commercial NB-IoT devices are also expected to be available by mid-2017.
Q.What are the key benefits of NB-IoT networks for machine-to-machine communications?
What are the key benefits of NB-IoT networks for machine-to-machine communications?
NB-IoT networks are designed to offer improved network performance for M2M communications, including low bandwidth, robust indoor penetration, and low power consumption. They also provide licensed spectrum benefits like reliability and security.
Q.Which organisations are involved in deploying the NB-IoT network in Singapore?
Which organisations are involved in deploying the NB-IoT network in Singapore?
M1 and Nokia are working together to roll out the network. The Government Technology Agency (GovTech) is also mentioned, with its Chief Executive-designate commenting on the technology.
Q.How will the NB-IoT deployment contribute to Singapore’s 'Smart Nation' initiative?
How will the NB-IoT deployment contribute to Singapore’s 'Smart Nation' initiative?
The NB-IoT deployment will support Singapore's goal of becoming a Smart Nation by underpinning it with data. This data will be used to deliver anticipatory services to citizens.
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