Grameenphone has become one of the first telecom operators in South Asia and the first operator from Bangladesh to have introduced the narrow band internet of things network, paving the way for massive adoption of IoT applications.
Narrow band (NB)-IoT is a cutting-edge communications technology that facilitates connection of millions of everyday appliances.
Bangladesh is one of 45 NB-IoT enabled markets in the world, according to a report of the GSMA, the global association of GSM mobile operators, on February 21.
“This recognition literally puts Bangladesh and GP on the world IoT map,” GP said in a statement yesterday.
GP introduced some IoT devices at BASIS SoftExpo 2019, the largest private sector exposition of IT and IT-enabled services in Bangladesh, in Dhaka last week.
The NB-IoT is far more energy-efficient and uses a fraction of the bandwidth compared to regular 4G communication, meaning metres installed in pipes and drains or car parking sensors placed in basements can be easily connected with the network.
With the technology, GP's existing 4G network will be well-suited for mass IoT communication, the statement said.
This in turn will help companies, utilities and municipalities focus their efforts on developing better digital services, rather than building and operating separate networks for IoT communication.
The technology is expected to enable rapid adoption of IoT applications, such as smart electricity, gas, water metering, safety monitoring, city parking, city lighting, connected vehicles and industrial automation solutions.
In the statement, Yasir Azman, deputy chief executive officer of GP, said, “We are very proud to be one of the very few telecom operators in Asia to bring in the NB-IoT.”
“IoT and artificial intelligence together will help in individuals and institution's prosperity and efficiency. This journey in a way is an integral part of delivering Digital Bangladesh's ambition and our promise to connect people to what matters most.”
Source: https://www.thedailystar.net/business/news/gp-world-iot-map-1720510