Du revealed it has chosen LoRa technology for a planned Internet of Things (IoT) network after completing what it said is the first "true" IoT network test in the Middle East.
The UAE-headquartered operator said it recently showcased its LoRa-based IoT network to community and business leaders in Dubai. It added that the network would advance its strategy to become a smart city enabler as part of broader government initiatives to upgrade the way cities and resources are managed by deploying new technologies.
In a statement, du said its network will enable better management of city resources including street lighting, waste management and parking, by relaying data from sensors deployed throughout the country. The operator added that a critical element in its LoRa IoT network is its low energy consumption, which du noted could add years to the battery life of sensors used in the network.
Carlos Domingo, du senior executive officer responsible for New Businesses and Innovation, said the operator's IoT trial is a "defining moment in the UAE's Smart City transformation.
"We need a new breed of 'sensor friendly' network to establish the Smart City ecosystem -- thanks to du, this capability now exists in the UAE," Domingo said.
The operator noted that its LoRa network is the latest in a growing range of advanced technologies it has deployed, adding to the LTE Advanced infrastructure it launched earlier in 2015, and trials of voice-over-LTE (VoLTE) conducted in 2014.
While du showcased its IoT network in Dubai, Carlos explained the operator would deploy the technology across the UAE. "Dubai is our home and we want to lead its transition to become a better, smarter city for all to enjoy. Today we've shown how our network capabilities and digital know-how can deliver the Smart City ecosystem Dubai needs. We will not stop in Dubai, our deployment will continue country-wide throughout the UAE."
For more:
- see this du announcement
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