KORE has announced it will support existing M2M and IoT devices operating on the KORE network through T-Mobile’s 2G network extension through 2020.
KORE’s continued support of T-Mobile’s 2G network will allow 2G-based M2M applications on a mid-term service lifecycle horizon to operate without interruption and give those users and providers more time to transition their in-service investments to LTE.
“With the 2G sunset looming for some users, many are simply not able to make an accelerated transition to LTE across their entire base just yet,” said Alex Brisbourne, CEO, KORE. “Those users with very large bases, or in a mid-term product life cycle – committed to building next generation LTE devices over the next 2-3 years – need more time. This is particularly important as new LTE service classes mature to production over the next 12-18 months. Our aim in supporting this network extension is to give our customers a longer window to shift more seamlessly to the best LTE solution, without losing connectivity or putting undue strain on their business logistics. We are extremely happy T-Mobile has filled this void by extending their 2G network timeline.”
“As the Un-carrier, we extended our 2G network support through 2020 to give our machine-to-machine customers choice when planning for the future,” said Doug Chartier, senior vice president of MVNO, Partner Brands & National Accounts at T-Mobile. “We’re excited to provide a longer-term transition from 2G to LTE solutions for tomorrow’s IoT solutions with a mobile network platform that can meet customer’s needs. Working with our M2M resellers to solve this customer pain point and deliver a plan toward LTE was a critical need for the entire M2M and IoT ecosystem.”
With T-Mobile’s 2G network extension, the KORE network will continue to support direct connectivity for 2G devices operating within T-Mobile’s native coverage footprint. KORE customers will be able to use mapping services on PRiSMPro to determine areas in which devices will or will not have connectivity, to create a more gradual slope for hardware changes. Customers utilizing T-Mobile’s 2G network extension will only have data support for 2G services; M2M and IoT applications requiring voice will not be supported. KORE’s 2G customers will be able to migrate to LTE services, as needed, as their new devices come to market.
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