Vodafone adds LTE-M lower-cost connectivity tech to its IoT portfolio

Vodafone is now offering an alternative IoT service called Long Term Evolution for Machines (LTE-M).

It is designed for IoT services not connected to mains electricity and only transmit small amounts of data, such as burglar alarms, wearable devices, and asset tracking.

The technology is also known as LTE Cat-M1 and is optimised for indoor coverage, including improved penetration in buildings and underground, for IoT applications in remote or difficult-to-reach areas. LTE-M supports full mobility and can maintain connections while devices are in motion.

Vodafone explains 4G and 5G solutions are suited for IoT applications requiring high data throughput, constant connectivity, and low latency to respond in micro- or milliseconds. LTE-M and NB-IoT are designed for low data throughput and non-time-sensitive use cases. LTE-M can provide continuous connectivity and low latency services in some scenarios, but it is primarily for facilitating small data batches.

LTE-M and NB-IoT (Narrow Band) have different download/upload speeds (300 kbps and 20 kbps, respectively). NB-IoT is suitable for challenging locations and batch data uploads (such as underground water pipes or smart meters. LTE-M is best for mobility use such as asset tracking and wearable devices and event-based connectivity.

Vodafone UK Business Director Nick Gliddon said: “LTE-M is about choosing the right tools for the right job. 5G might be the right choice for some IoT use cases, whereas LTE-M might be better for others. By enabling LTE-M to sit alongside 4G, 5G, and NB-IoT, we are providing a technology-agnostic solution for customers.”