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Thinxtra Deploys LPWA Infrastructure to Build IoT Network in Hong Kong

Thinxtra
2017-11-01 16:00 1422

Sigfox operator invests to enable Hong Kong to capitalize on the global rise of IoT

HONG KONG, Nov. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Sigfox's exclusive Hong Kong network operator Thinxtra launched today to support the growth of an Internet of Things (IoT) research and development ecosystem for Hong Kong, providing cost-effective IoT connectivity via an open territory-wide low-power wide-area (LPWA)* network that connects to Sigfox networks in 36 other countries around the world.

Already a game changer in diverse sectors worldwide, IoT holds particular promise for Hong Kong, which has the potential to be a global hub for IoT and a showcase of IoT-enabled smart city solutions. To help Hong Kong realise this potential, Thinxtra is deploying base stations and antennas at key locations around the territory in preparation for the official launch of its LPWA network.

A total of 100 base stations are expected to be installed throughout Hong Kong by June 2018 to provide the long-range, low-bandwidth, low-power connectivity that businesses, research institutions and government organizations need to capitalize on the rise of IoT. The territory's first Sigfox base stations and antennas were installed at Hong Kong Science and Technology Park (HKSTP) in mid-August to create an open IoT network for tenant companies engaged in IoT research and development.

"With strong government support for the growth of the IoT and smart city industries, Hong Kong has the potential to be a leader in the global IoT revolution. A thriving innovation and incubation environment and a cost-effective LPWA network are essential to making this vision a reality," said Loic Barancourt, CEO of Thinxtra.

While rolling out its LPWA network in Hong Kong, Thinxtra has also begun nurturing local start-ups and other partners to create a strong local IoT ecosystem. As part of this effort, it is working closely with HKSTP on research and development as well as the design of devices, sensors and solutions.

"Organizations in Hong Kong can benefit from Thinxtra's expertise and infrastructure as they develop and deploy new IoT solutions on the Sigfox technology. Making a wide range of new applications more viable, this will help stimulate innovation, enhance business competitiveness and further Hong Kong's growth as a leading smart city," said Murray Hankinson, Managing Director of Thinxtra Asia.

Sigfox is the world's most mature LPWA network and the first global cellular network fully dedicated to connected objects. As the exclusive Sigfox operator in Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, Thinxtra already has a live LPWA network covering much of the population of Australia and New Zealand, along with an ecosystem of more than 200 local IoT partners. The Hong Kong network will link with this infrastructure, as well as other Sigfox networks and IoT ecosystems in 36 countries around the world.

"We are at the very beginning of the IoT revolution, with real-world projects providing real value to businesses and communities. Thinxtra and Sigfox are laying the groundwork for this revolution in Asia Pacific, with Hong Kong as a core market for growth," said Roswell Wolff, President for Asia-Pacific at Sigfox.

About Thinxtra
Thinxtra is empowering the Internet of Things (IoT) in Asia Pacific by deploying the world-leading Sigfox LPWA network as well as building a full eco-system of IoT solutions and services to enable the non-connected to connect, to increase productivity, accelerate decision making, improve quality of service and quality of life, and find more economical solutions to common problems.

Visit www.thinxtra.com and follow us on Twitter @Thinxtra.

*About LPWA Technology
The majority of IoT-connected devices do not need to send huge data loads: they can function perfectly well using ultra narrow band technology. This type of solution can be set up and operated for as little as one-tenth of the cost of using a 3G/4G device, and because they are only "on" when they are transmitting, power demand is negligible.

The significantly lower set-up and running costs make this technology a viable proposition for a great many more possible applications than are currently connected.

The Sigfox network has been designed with the IoT in mind, and is the only company rolling out a global network fully dedicated to connected objects.

The Sigfox network provides:

  • Low energy consumption (most devices are battery powered)
  • Long range (reducing network and subscription costs)
  • Ease of use
  • Security and reliability

 

Source: Thinxtra
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