Vodafone NZ strengthens IoT network with new tech rollout

Vodafone New Zealand has simultaneously launched two new IoT technologies, NB-IoT and LTE-M, which will enable Kiwis to connect into the world's leading IoT platform for a new, innovative range of IoT applications.

Vodafone is the global leader in managed IoT, with 77 million connections in more than 30 countries.

"This is a world-first combined launch of NB-IoT and LTE-M IoT networks at the same time within the Vodafone Group," says Vodafone technology director Tony Baird

"With over 1.6 million cellular IoT connections, Vodafone New Zealand has already cemented itself as the largest provider of IoT in New Zealand, and these technologies are expected to drive the next wave of IoT innovation here in New Zealand and overseas.

"When combined with our extensive mobile and fixed networks these new IoT technologies will give Kiwis access to some of the best connectivity experiences in the world.

Globally, Vodafone IoT technologies are embedded within connected vehicles built by Audi, BMW, Daimler Benz, Ford, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Porsche, SEAT, VW and Yamaha motorbikes.

Vodafone IoT country manager Scott Pollard adds that both technologies will enable connectivity for a wide range of devices using licensed spectrum in a secure, scalable and affordable way.

"NB-IoT delivers signal strength that can penetrate through concrete, underwater, underground and deep into infrastructure. It is set to shape the connected farm of the future with applications like remote monitoring for stock feeding, electric fencing and water tank levels.

"LTE-M offers strong battery life and fast throughput of data to enable real-time applications like vehicle tracking, asset monitoring and logistics, with future support for voice calls. Kiwi entrepreneurs and developers have been anticipating the arrival of these technologies and are responding with enthusiasm to the launch. We have some pilot projects already underway.

In stunning Punakaiki, home of the Pancake Rocks on New Zealand's West Coast, local volunteer group Predator Free Punakaiki is working to create a native bird sanctuary.

In their quest to eradicate predators, they have turned to an innovative IoT pest control solution, MinkPolice, which already has a track record of success in Europe.

"Within each trap, there is a SIM that connects via Vodafone's IoT network to the MinkPolice smart-phone application," MinkPolice managing director Heiko Kaiser explains

"Volunteers receive a notification whenever a trap is activated which sends them to the exact location of that trap, to clear it, reset it, and trap more pests more often. Initially, the traps used Vodafone's global SIM on the 2G IoT network, but we're about to move to the NB-IoT network, which will enable the volunteers to set traps in more remote areas of the sanctuary.

NB-IoT and LTE-M will be deployed securely on the existing Vodafone 4G network.