Bell Set to Launch LTE-M IoT Network in Canada

Bell has announced that it will launch an LTE-M (Long Term Evolution, category M1) network in order to support the increasing use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices on low-power, wide-area networks (LPWAN) in Canada.

LTE-M is designed to improve the operating efficiency of IoT devices by enabling very low power consumption and better coverage underground and in other hard to reach locations. Bell has completed LTE-M trials and deployments with pilot customers, and will launch its LTE-M network in 2018.

“Bell's leadership in LTE-M technology is another example of our commitment to continued investment and innovation in our networks and the rapidly growing IoT space,” said Stephen Howe, CTO, Bell. “LTE-M makes it possible to have many thousands of smart sensors collecting and sending data over a wider range and with better battery life than other connectivity options. We invite developers and partners to join us as we open the doors to new and exciting innovations in IoT.”

Bell LTE-M will also work in the Bell MTS Innovations in Agriculture program at the University of Manitoba, which will provide students with opportunities to develop IoT technologies for application in agriculture and food science.

Bell demonstrated its first LTE-M application earlier this year in conjunction with Canadian development partner BeWhere, an IIoT solutions company that designs and sells hardware with sensors and software applications to track real-time information on movable assets.

“Bell's LTE-M network combined with BeWhere's new beacon and cloud based applications will provide businesses and government organizations a level of operational visibility that was previously unavailable or cost prohibitive,” said Owen Moore, CEO, BeWhere. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Bell on these game-changing technologies.”

Bell and BeWhere are also testing environmental sensors and asset monitoring devices for an Ontario winery to provide years of maintenance-free operation.