19th May 2023
The term "cellular Internet of Things (IoT) market" describes the process of connecting and enabling communication between various IoT devices via cellular networks. These gadgets might be trackers, sensors, actuators, or other networked gadgets that send data through cellular networks.
The growing use of IoT technology across several sectors has led to tremendous development in the cellular IoT market in recent years. By 2030, it is anticipated to reach USD 26.78 billion, expanding at a CAGR of 24.6% from 2022 to 2030.
The growing adoption of cellular IoT modules in building automation and good city infrastructure verticals is anticipated to drive market expansion over the course of the projected period. These verticals may account for a significant portion of the cellular IoT market's revenue. New cellular Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies like NB-LTE-M, NB-IoT, and 5G make it possible to connect powered things to the Internet at a very low cost and with very little power usage. Some significant applications of cellular IoT in excellent cities are streetlights, traffic sensing and management devices, infrastructure observation devices, waste management devices, and parking management devices. The need for vehicle telematics is expected to increase quickly as a result of the implementation of IoT and telematics solutions to monitor instrumentation and on-road assets owing to the limited supply of technicians.
Telematics solution providers now include cellular IoT modules in their product lines, making it simpler for fleet managers and OEMs of off-highway vehicles to collect and analyze data to spot important patterns and problems in the field's instrumentation usage. Additionally, it is anticipated that a number of characteristics, including strong security, ubiquitous quality, and robust networks, will enliven the industry throughout the ensuing many years. In the future, the sector is expected to be driven by demand for devices that are very dense, affordable, and low-power. The ability to control using native hardware and networking technologies, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as advancements in the "massive adoption" of LTE and technical advancements within the Internet of Things system, is anticipated to drive the market throughout the anticipated years.
Ericsson
Cellular IoT technologies have been developed by Ericsson, a top supplier of telecommunications tools and services. In order to enable massive machine-type communications (mMTC) and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC), they have helped to build 5G technology. Additionally, Ericsson has taken part in NB-IoT and LTE-M network experiments and rollouts across the world.
Nokia
Nokia, a major supplier of networking and telecommunications gear, has been heavily involved in developments in the cellular IoT. They have been creating complete IoT platforms and solutions, including those for managing devices, connectivity, and applications. In order to develop NB-IoT and LTE-M networks, Nokia has also worked with operators and businesses.
Qualcomm
Cellular Internet of Things (IoT) technology and solutions have been the focus of Qualcomm, a top manufacturer of semiconductors and telecom equipment. They have produced modem chipsets for NB-IoT and LTE-M connections. For IoT devices, Qualcomm's chipsets offer reduced power consumption, increased coverage, and increased effectiveness. To promote cellular IoT adoption, they have been working with device makers and network providers.
Huawei
The development of cellular IoT technology has been heavily influenced by Huawei, a leading worldwide provider of networking and telecommunications solutions. They have created NB-IoT and LTE-M technologies and have been a part of the 3GPP standardization process. Huawei provides complete IoT platforms, and connection options, and has participated in a number of IoT deployments across several industry sectors.
Sierra Wireless
One of the most well-known suppliers of IoT products and services is Sierra Wireless. They provide a selection of cellular gateways and modules that enable different cellular IoT technologies. For industrial applications, Sierra Wireless has been concentrating on creating IoT devices that are cost-efficient, low-power, and ruggedized. They furthermore provide cloud-based IoT platform solutions for data analytics and device management.
Based on many divisions, such as connection technologies, vertical applications, device kinds, and geographic areas, it is possible to analyze and comprehend the cellular IoT market. Following is a growth and trend analysis based on these segments:
Connectivity Technologies
Vertical Applications
Device Types
The growth of the cellular IoT market differs by region. The acceptance and implementation of cellular IoT solutions have been significantly observed in developed regions including North America, Europe, and portions of Asia. Increasing urbanization, digital transformation, and government efforts are motivating emerging economies in Asia, Latin America, and Africa to embrace cellular IoT.
Increasing IoT Adoption
The cellular IoT market is significantly being driven by the expanding usage of IoT technologies across several sectors. In order to increase operational effectiveness, improve customer experiences, and allow new business models, businesses are realizing the potential of connecting and collecting data from a variety of devices.
Advancements in Cellular Technologies
The cellular IoT industry is primarily driven by ongoing improvements in cellular technology. With better connection, greater data rates, reduced latency, and increased device density, the transition from 2G and 3G to 4G LTE and the development of 5G networks make them suitable for a variety of IoT applications.
Wide Network Range
Wide coverage provided by cellular networks makes it possible to implement IoT in both urban and rural regions. Cellular IoT is a desirable alternative for applications that require a connection in a variety of geographic regions, including rural areas, where other connectivity options may be limited, thanks to its coverage advantage.
Standardization and Interoperability
Cellular IoT standards like NB-IoT and LTE-M have been produced thanks to standardization efforts by organizations like 3GPP. Since these standards guarantee interoperability, IoT devices from diverse manufacturers may operate without a hitch on multiple cellular networks. Standardization makes cellular IoT systems more scalable, deployable, and easy to integrate.
Security and Reliability
For IoT devices, cellular networks offer a dependable and safe communication infrastructure. Data sent between devices and cloud platforms is protected by the encryption and authentication techniques used in cellular networks. Cellular networks are suited for important Internet of Things applications because of their dependability and quality of service.
Industry-Specific Applications
Specific needs and use cases from diverse industry sectors are addressed by cellular IoT. IoT-enabled sensors, for instance, can monitor crop health and optimize irrigation in agriculture. Remote patient monitoring and asset tracking in the healthcare industry improve patient care and operational effectiveness. Cellular IoT's popularity and expansion are fueled by its applications in particular industries.
Cost-Effective Connectivity
The market is expanding as a result of the falling prices of cellular modules, data packages, and IoT platforms. Businesses of all sizes may adopt cellular IoT solutions affordably because to the availability of scalable, inexpensive cellular connectivity choices.
Government Initiatives and Regulations
Governments all around the globe are putting policies and rules into place to encourage IoT innovation and adoption. These programs frequently include financial assistance, legal frameworks, and the creation of smart city projects, which increase demand for cellular IoT products.
Data Analytics and Insights
Huge volumes of data generated by cellular IoT may be analyzed and turned into insights that can be put to use. Businesses may use this data to make better decisions, run their operations more efficiently, and generate new income sources. The popularity of cellular IoT solutions is driven by the potential for data-based insights.
Since many IoT devices run on batteries, they need lengthy battery lives to function properly. Power usage is a major problem, particularly for low-power IoT devices.
Solution: Utilizing low-power cellular communication technologies like NB-IoT and LTE-M as well as optimizing device design are some solutions.
Security and privacy issues are brought up by the growing number of cellular IoT-linked devices. IoT devices are susceptible to cyberattacks, and the extensive data collecting and transfer may result in data privacy concerns.
Solution: Implementing strong security mechanisms like encryption, authentication, and secure communication protocols is one way to find solutions. In order to ensure security, regular firmware upgrades and good device management procedures are also necessary.
Despite cellular networks' extensive coverage, certain places, especially those in distant or rural regions, nevertheless have poor network service.
Solution: It is essential to increase network coverage and connection in these locations. Investment in infrastructure by telecom companies, the utilization of cutting-edge technology for coverage, notably satellite-based connection, and collaborations to make use of pooled network resources are potential solutions.
When IoT platforms, apps, and devices from multiple suppliers must operate together flawlessly, interoperability issues emerge. Integration attempts may be hampered by an absence of standardized interfaces and protocols.
Solution: Promoting industry-wide protocols and standards, like those created by the 3GPP, is one way to assure connection and interoperability across various devices and networks.
IoT device management may be difficult and complex when there are many of them. Provisioning, setup, monitoring, and firmware upgrades for devices might all experience problems.
Solution: Scalable device management systems and solutions that provide centralized administration and control of IoT devices, automatic provisioning, and over-the-air firmware upgrades can assist in overcoming these difficulties.
Large-scale deployments of IoT devices may be hampered by the expense of cellular connectivity. Widespread adoption might be hampered by high data prices and subscription fees.
Solution: Investigating cost-effective connection choices, negotiating advantageous data packages with telecom providers, and using cutting-edge technology like eSIM (embedded SIM) for flexible and economical connectivity are some solutions.
Data management and analytics might be difficult because of the huge amount of data that cellular IoT devices create. It needs efficient data processing, analysis, and storage capabilities.
Solution: Utilizing edge computing, cloud-based platforms, and cutting-edge analytics tools are some solutions for handling and gleaning useful insights from IoT data effectively.
IoT installations must adhere to a number of laws and standards involving data security, privacy, and spectrum use. It might be difficult to stay in compliance with laws that are constantly changing.
Solution: Establishing strong governance and compliance structures, adhering to industry best practices, and continuously monitoring legislative developments are some solutions.
Industry Specific Solutions
There are many chances to create and implement IoT solutions that are industry-specific. Customized IoT applications may help sectors including agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and smart cities. Creating specialized solutions that target the needs and pain points of a particular sector might create huge development prospects.
5G-enabled IoT Applications
Advanced IoT applications now have new prospects because to the rollout of 5G networks. Innovative use cases including driverless cars, industrial automation, remote surgery, and immersive virtual reality are made possible by 5G's high data speeds, extremely low latency, and widespread device connection. These new 5G-enabled IoT applications are open for business exploration and exploitation.
Data Analytics and Insights
IoT wireless devices produce a tonne of data, which presents chances for data analytics and insights. Businesses may receive useful insights on how to increase operational effectiveness, optimize resource allocation, and make data-driven choices by analyzing IoT data. Businesses that offer platforms and services for advanced analytics have the chance to present worthwhile solutions in this market.
Managed IoT Services
There is an increasing need for managed IoT services as IoT deployment complexity rises. End-to-end solutions, including data analytics, device management, connection management, and security services, can be provided by service providers. Businesses can simplify their IoT activities, cut down on complexity, and concentrate on their core skills with the aid of managed IoT services.
Edge Computing
Edge computing has expanded as a result of the proliferation of IoT devices and the demand for real-time data processing. By bringing computing power closer to the devices, edge computing enables quicker data processing, lower latency, and increased effectiveness. Opportunities exist to create edge computing platforms and solutions that are tailored precisely to the requirements of cellular IoT deployments.
Integration with AI and Machine Learning
New possibilities for automation and predictive analytics are made possible by cellular IoT in conjunction with AI and ML technology. Real-time IoT data analysis using AI and ML algorithms allows for intelligent decision-making, anomaly identification, and proactive maintenance. Innovation and new business models can be stimulated by cellular IoT integration with AI and ML technology.
Connectivity Management Platforms
Strong connectivity management tools are becoming more and more necessary as connected devices proliferate. Through the use of these platforms, devices may be provisioned, monitored, and troubleshooted effectively across several networks and locations. There are chances to create complete connection management systems that offer real-time data, centralized administration, and seamless connectivity.
Sustainable and Smart Solutions
Opportunities for cellular IoT solutions that promote energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable practices are being presented with a focus on sustainability and environmental impact. Solutions for smart energy management, trash management, and environmental monitoring can assist cities and enterprises in achieving their sustainability objectives.
Partnerships and Ecosystem Collaboration
Partnerships and cooperation between technology vendors, telecom operators, solution integrators, and industry stakeholders are essential to the success of the cellular IoT business. Strong ecosystem alliances and partnerships may open up new business opportunities, promote innovation, and quicken the adoption of cellular IoT solutions.
In conclusion, the cellular IoT industry is expanding significantly and offers a wide range of economic and technological potential. The market is primarily driven by the growing use of IoT technology across several sectors, improvements in cellular technologies (4G LTE and 5G), extensive network coverage, and the standardization of protocols.
Despite the market's expansion, there are still difficulties that need to be resolved, including those related to power efficiency, security, privacy, network coverage restrictions, interoperability problems, and connectivity costs. These obstacles may be overcome, though, with creative thinking and teamwork.
Opportunities in the market can be found in creating solutions tailored to specific industries, utilizing 5G-enabled IoT applications, utilizing data analytics and insights, offering managed IoT services, exploring edge computing, integrating AI and ML technologies, providing connectivity management platforms, concentrating on sustainability and smart solutions, and fostering partnerships and ecosystem collaboration.
Businesses may succeed in the cellular IoT market, provide beneficial solutions to a variety of sectors, and contribute to the expansion and development of the IoT ecosystem as a whole by using these potentials and overcoming the difficulties. In the upcoming years, the cellular IoT industry is expected to experience sustained growth, innovation, and revolution.