In a strategic move towards fostering smart cities and industries, British telecommunications giant BT has officially launched its Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network. This expansive network, covering 97 percent of the UK population and extending the capabilities of the existing EE Mobile network, is set to revolutionize connectivity for businesses and enable efficient IoT solutions.
BT Group announced that the NB-IoT network, now available to business customers, is tailored to support Smart Cities and Industries. The network is specifically designed to connect low-data-demand assets, such as street lighting and underground water sensors, over a smart network. This not only promises extended battery life for connected devices but also enhances efficiency and reduces costs. For example, the network can automatically detect leaks in water infrastructure, contributing to the conservation of resources.
One notable advantage of BT’s NB-IoT network is its potential impact on the agricultural industry. The company highlights previous successful trials involving sensors to monitor haystack temperature, preventing fire risks, and gate sensors for safeguarding livestock. These applications showcase the diverse and impactful uses of the network, extending its benefits beyond urban environments.
BT emphasized the role of the NB-IoT network in expediting the development of smart cities. By facilitating use cases such as monitoring and optimizing energy use, storage, and distribution, the network contributes to creating more sustainable and technologically advanced urban spaces.
Commenting on the launch, BT stated, “Growing numbers of businesses are beginning to realize the benefits of IoT applications, and our UK-wide NB-IoT network opens up a wide range of connectivity solutions for monitors, sensors, and other smart devices. Whether it’s building the smart cities of the future or reducing carbon emissions, our network will provide customers with the reliability and efficiency they need.”
The NB-IoT network is set to complement BT’s existing IoT portfolio, which includes eSIMs and IoT national roaming SIMs for UK businesses.
