Ericsson will be using its LPWA solution on Verizon’s LTE network to connect a wider variety of IoT use cases by supporting the connectivity requirements of lower power, lower cost and reduced complexity.
The two companies have been running IoT trials since 2014 to demonstrate the range of IoT use cases – both consumer and industrial applications – that mobile networks can support.
Adam Koeppe, Verizon’s vice president of network technology and planning, said: “We’re committed to simplifying IoT and have introduced a developer platform – ThingSpace – and new network advancements that do just that. Ericsson’s new software will enable us to expand our coverage of low-cost IoT devices while supporting years of battery life.”
Arun Bansal, Ericcson’s senior vice president and head of its radio business unit, said: “IoT applications will drive 5G development so it is essential for us to work with leading operators like Verizon to proactively spearhead the industry and ecosystem.”
Koeppe added: “Verizon’s nationwide LTE network provides an ideal platform for the acceleration of IoT applications that benefit consumers, industry and cities.
Ericsson said its new software includes key features enabling cellular networks to support smart cities, smart metering, and smart agriculture. Joint trials will focus on live network testing of IoT use case scenarios, said the companies.
