Strong business growth in M2M

Sierra Wireless also announced AirLink Management Services (AMS), which will facilitate cloud-based device management for the AirLink GX400, as well as other AirLink intelligent gateways and routers. Based on the Sierra Wireless AirVantage Platform, this hosted device management service means small and large deployments can take advantage of the AMS management features from any location with Internet access.

CinterionCinterion just introduced BGS2, “the world’s smallest LGA (Land Grid Array) module for M2M solutions requiring voice and high speed GPRS data”. Designed for high volume production, this compact module is ideal for small M2M devices like personal tracking units and portable medical devices that help safeguard health and wellness.

In addition, Cinterion, along with Trimble, a US-based provider of positioning solutions, announce their collaboration to pair the companies’ M2M and GPS technologies. Combining Cinterion’s cellular communication modules and Trimble’s Condor GPS modules creates a flexible technology solution for a wide variety of asset management services. Cinterion has been acquired by Gemalto in June 2010 (cf. Smart Insights Weekly #10-27)

AT&TAT&T is expanding its footprint in the M2M world with a variety of new partnerships and services. AT&T announced partnerships with Axeda, ILS Technology, SensorLogic, and Sierra Wireless. These companies specialize in M2M technology and AT&T says they will offer options for development, enterprise integration, and management of M2M solutions.

Each company focuses on certain areas. Axeda offers a cloud-based M2M application platform for industries including industrial, medical, IT, banking, retail, and government. ILS Technology’s deviceWISE M2M Application Platform is designed for management of critical infrastructure in the building automation, data center, energy management, and industrial markets. SensorLogic will provide a cloud-based service-delivery platform for tracking and monitoring fleets and mobile assets. Finally, Sierra Wireless offers its AirVantage Platform, a cloud-based service and development environment and its M2M wireless modules.

Each of these companies is working with AT&T to combine its platform with AT&T network services. AT&T recorded 1.5 million net additions in Q4/2010, including both consumer devices and enterprise M2M connections.

Deutsche Telekom & France TelecomDeutsche Telekom and France Telecom-Orange will explore potential areas of cooperation in a defined set of technology fields. Potential cooperation fields include:Radio access network sharing in Europe,Improving WiFi user experience while roaming ,Equipment standardization,Machine-to-Machine (M2M) standards and quality of service for cross-border services.

EricssonEricsson launches its Device Connection Platform for telecom operators around the world, which in turn will set up M2M services tailored towards their enterprise customers. The platform is brought to market in a Software as a Service (SaaS) business model, offering operators benefits such as a low initial investment in technology and a fast time to market.

Evolving SystemsEvolving Systems, a provider of software solutions and services to the wireless, wireline and IP carrier market, will launch its Intelligent M2M controller product, a M2M solution for wireless service providers. The growing volume in M2M devices using wireless networks presents operators with a range of challenges. The M2M controller allows devices to securely connect to the network and send data only when needed. The operators can thus reduce costs and  protect their networks.