Alef, the first mobile Edge API Platform, announced that they have signed a multi-million dollar deal with LittleBird, a smart technology platform for residential communities.
LittleBird will use Alef’s LTE/5G core services and APIs to enable a private mobile network, using Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum for LittleBird’s Smart Technologies application of residential properties across the U.S. This partnership removes the complexity of deploying a private mobile network and allows LittleBird to launch across multiple properties quickly and affordably.
LittleBird will be able to control their smart home automation and smart access control devices across their property portfolio while connecting to Alef’s network to increase mobility to otherwise inaccessible locations. Utilizing Alef’s APIs to stand up a private mobile network gives LittleBird an alternative to traditional mobile network operators through a cost-effective, low latency network that expands reach across their many U.S. locations.
LittleBird's smart technology platform allows residents to use their smartphones to control smart home automation devices in their residential units, as well as interact with LittleBird's video intercom and smartphone access readers, creating a safer, more convenient, and comfortable resident experience. The key to optimizing these services is constant, dedicated data for successful delivery of applications. However, the connectivity that is required for this new construction, as well as properties built in the 1990’s or before, is not always available in these locations, which is why Alef’s API approach using CBRS spectrum is more efficient.
Mike Mulica, CEO at Alef
Through this partnership, Alef will provide LittleBird with an alternate path to traditional network providers using CBRS spectrum. This ultimately removes the cost of deploying a full-stack network, and increases efficiency of applications run via our programmable APIs. Smart home functions and smart services offer value to residents and are in high demand, and we look forward to working alongside LittleBird to provide these capabilities.
Ryan Maguire, General Manager at LittleBird
We believe it's important to deliver a fully-integrated resident experience that unifies convenient access control, smart home automation, and resident engagement features in a single platform. Our partnership with Alef unlocks the ability to bring this platform to properties that previously might not have been a good fit, increasing our growth potential and ability to serve more residents.
