There seems to be a battle amongst Singapore telcos as they roll out their Internet of Things (IoT) network offerings.
Following M1's unveiling of Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT) network, Singapore largest telco Singtel is eyeing to launch its nationwide cellular IoT network by end-September.
According to Singtel, this will enable enterprises to gain operational and cost efficiencies through the use of low-power IoT devices.
Singtel's new network will support Cat-M1 and NB-IoT technologies, paving the way for businesses to reap benefits from applications with low-power consumption, deep coverage and multiple connections.
The telco will also utilise its cyber security expertise to support businesses in implementing secure and reliable IoT solutions.
Singtel Group Enterprise Chief Executive Officer Bill Chang said this will greatly alleviate security concerns.
"The launch of our network provides an ideal platform for the proliferation of IoT devices and applications. 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," Chang said in a statement.
The telco explained that the cellular IoT network can support devices with battery longevity of up to 10 years or more as it leverages both low-band and mid-band frequencies.
One main difference between Singtel's IoT over Cat-M1 network is its ability to allow businesses to make VoLTE calls in future using small portable devices with long battery life, such as wearables and trackers with voice capability.
To recall, Singtel has been exploring IoT usage with local players and large corporations across a diverse range of applications since 2016.
Chang said the roll out of the nationwide cellular IoT network will accelerate businesses' adoption of such innovative technologies, and help them create exciting new products and services for consumers
"We are constantly forging partnerships with IoT enablers to create a rich IoT ecosystem, and develop end-to-end solutions to meet our customers' needs," he furthered.
