M1 launches nationwide NB-IoT network

Singapore’s M1 has announced the launch of Southeast Asia’s first commercial nationwide narrowband IoT network.

M1 and its partners are using the network to make available IoT solutions in fields including smart energy management for buildings, environmental monitoring, asset tracking and fleet management.

The operator is today hosting industry partners and businesse to showcase the possibilities of IoT technology, including smart metering, smart NB-IoT GPS trackers, smart GPS locks, smart waste management through bins with alters to cleaners when they are full and even smart toilets that can detect when they need cleaning.

“The launch of Southeast Asia’s first commercial nationwide NB-IoT network will accelerate our journey into a digital society,” M1 CEO Karen Kooi said.

“The Internet of Things will open up an incredible array of fresh opportunities and innovation. We look forward to working closely with government agencies, technology partners, and customers to enable smart solutions for everything and everyone.”

Rival Singtel has meanwhile announced plans to roll out a nationwide cellular IoT network supporting both CAT-1 and NB-IoT by end September.

Singtel will use its cybersecurity operations to support businesses in deploying secure IoT solutions, and plans to invite business and technology partners to develop and test IoT solutions at its joint IoT Innovation Lab operated with Ericsson.

“The launch of our network provides an ideal platform for the proliferation of IoT devices and applications,” Singtel CEO Bill Chang said.

“With more businesses embracing the digital future, it paves the way for IoT adoption as Singapore advances towards becoming a Smart Nation. We welcome businesses to be part of the growing IoT ecosystem by leveraging on our robust infrastructure and network.”