What The Global 2G Shutdown Means For IOT/M2M Companies Around The World

Cellular networks are constantly evolving, changing, and innovating. And while this leads to advanced technology and faster, more effective cellular networks, it also means that older, outdated technology must be left behind.
That’s exactly what’s happening now – with the advent of advanced cellular technology like 3G and LTE widely available in almost every country around the globe, older 2G wireless bands are getting left behind. Cellular providers around the world are now mothballing their 2G networks – even monolithic companies like AT&T are shutting down their 2G transmission towers for good.

This trend is holding true - in Austria, network providers Drei and A1 are both considering a shift away from 2G networks, in Switzerland, industry leader Swisscom has announced a complete shutdown of 2G coverage to be completed by 2021.
It’s critical for IoT and M2M companies to adjust to this change. For years, 2G networks have been used for highly-reliable, remote data transmission of low-bandwidth IoT and M2M communication – and because these standards are being eliminated, these companies will need to implement a modern communication solution.

Why Are 2G Networks Being Shut Down Around The World?

Simply, consumers have moved on. 2G offered a maximum download speed of 50 Kbit/sec – and while this was certainly cutting-edge when it was introduced 1991, modern LTE bands can offer over 300 Mbit/sec.
Because of this, consumers have largely moved away from 2G, preferring to use 3G and LTE technologies. This is where most of the profit lies – and as time goes on, and 2G becomes less common, the costs associated with maintaining an outdated network standard are becoming higher and higher.
Together, these factors mean that most telecom providers can’t afford to offer 2G services anymore. They’re slow, used only for niche applications, and don’t offer any benefits to consumers, compared to speedier 3G and LTE bands.

What Does This Mean For IoT and M2M Companies?

For years, IoT and M2M companies have used the 2G band in order to send small packets of data for a low cost. However, the 2G shutdown will change that. If IoT and M2M companies hope to continue to compete after 2G networks are shut down around the world, they must evolve – and implement hardware that supports modern cellular technologies.
However, there is good news. As LTE has developed, there have been a variety of technologies created to make use of this cellular band – specifically in the IoT and M2M industries. These include:

• Cat-NB1  is a standard developed and released by 3GPP in 2016. This standard focuses on low power consumption, indoor coverage, long battery life, and connectivity to a wide variety of devices.

• Cat-M1 is another LTE IoT standard, first released in 3GPP Release 13. This technology focuses on cost-reduction measures, low data rates, and reduced transmit power, especially on low-bandwidth uplinks and downlinks.

• EC-GSM-IoT is designed as a Low Power Wide Area technology and is based on eGPRS. Focusing on high capacity, long range, and low energy consumption. This technology also is compatible with modern security standards such as user identity confidentiality, data integrity, and entity authentication.

So while the discontinuation of 2G is a blow to IoT and M2M companies, there are quite a few standards that can replace 2G – and even offer better, more reliable network performance

How Can I Use Modern LTE IoT Standards in My Business?

While 2G is quickly being shut down across the world, there’s still time to upgrade your IoT or M2M devices to avoid network interruptions – especially if you partner with Round Solutions!
At Round Solutions, we’re IoT and M2M experts – and we have the products, expertise, and knowledge you need to upgrade your existing equipment, and make use of modern IoT LTE technologies such as Cat-NB1 and Cat-M1!

We offer a tremendous variety of IoT modules, antennae, and accessories – and with support for advanced LTE standards, we’re the perfect partner for your business.

Whether you’re looking for an equipment supplier to create your own products, or you’re interested in our pre-built, complete IoT solutions such as gateway modems, we have the equipment you need to avoid service interruptions during the 2G shutdown!

Best of all, you can contract with Round Solutions for custom products. Our engineering services are top notch, and we can design and manufacture products that are perfect for your business.

So don’t wait for your IoT and M2M devices to fail! Contact Round Solutions today, and see how we can help futureproof your company with advanced 3G and LTE modules, products, and services!

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