Inmarsat develops a comprehensive global IoT network with JT Group
08 November 2017
Inmarsat has announced the formation of a new strategic partnership with international telecommunications provider JT Group (formerly Jersey Telecom), that will enable Inmarsat to deliver a holistic connectivity solution for Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The global network will combine Inmarsat’s existing satellite communication infrastructure and cellular data provided by JT. This will enable Inmarsat’s customers to access a global connectivity network from a single provider to deliver the next generation of IoT technology.
Paul Gudonis, President of Inmarsat Enterprise, commented on the significance of the partnership: “This is a hugely important partnership for Inmarsat. Integrating a global cellular solution with our satellite communication network means that we can provide all of the connectivity necessary for an IoT installation, to anywhere in the world. This gives us a much more powerful offering when we bring our IoT solutions to the market, as it means our customers only need to liaise with one provider, not go to one company for satellite connectivity and another for cellular data.”
In the first demonstration of the transformative potential of a global IoT network, JT and Inmarsat have worked with Actility to establish a smart city initiative in Kigali, Rwanda. The satellite-enabled, city-wide IoT network utilises JT’s M2M sim cards within Actility’s base stations to create the connectivity gateways required for IoT applications. This connectivity solution has enabled a variety of large scale IoT projects to be deployed in Kigali, including a smart bus project, real-time monitoring of air pollution level, precision farming and a connected surveillance system.
Tom Noel, Managing Director, International Division, at JT commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to be supporting Inmarsat in rolling out a global connectivity solution, to support its IoT network. With over 600 direct roaming partners, we can offer a multi-network communications solution that spans almost every country in the world, and our M2M sim solution is purpose built to deliver the connectivity required for IoT. We are looking forward to taking this partnership with Inmarsat forward and continuing to service our customers with high-speed, reliable connectivity, wherever they are in the world.”
