Within the Internet-of-Things (IoT) and M2M space, global alliances between mobile operators are becoming a necessity to enable these players to offer M2M services for enterprise customers with global business presence. In a recent announcement, Tele2, a Sweden-based service provider who offers mobile services, fixed broadband and telephony, data network and content services said that it is partnering Cubic Telecom, a global mobile network operator to provide IoT/M2M solutions to companies in the PC OEM and automotive area. Tele2 currently operates in 9 countries in the European region.
Global enterprise customers in particular are looking out for solutions that can provide both connectivity and integrated management for their suite of M2M products/services across various segments such as the connected car, smarthome appliances and fleet management. Collaboration between mobile operators or service providers becomes necessary to ensure that enterprise customers need not have to pursue multiple partnerships across different countries and regions and can leverage on a single solution to manage their global M2M customers. Mobile operators who can offer the most extensive coverage will therefore have an edge in the M2M segment, leading to a flurry of new partnerships in this space.
In its statement, Tele2 said that the partnership will enable its global enterprise customers to utilize Cubic Telecom’s end-to-end cloud based solution to quickly deploy and implement M2M/IoT services. At present, Cubic Telecom's solution is being used by major brands such as HP, Lenovo, and Sierra Wireless.
Barry Napier, CEO of Cubic Telecom
We want to make it as easy as possible for enterprises to run their businesses. By expanding our footprint through partnering with Tele2 we not only meet the needs of our expanding customer base by allowing them to grow internationally with proven tools, but we provide them with a clear advantage over their competition.Tele2 has recently made extensive capability investments in their M2M business, signaling that this is a key focus for the operator going forward.
Rami Avidan, Head of Tele2 M2M Global Solutions
We see great opportunity in the M2M/IoT space and we are delighted to be working with Cubic Telecom to bring the benefits of M2M/IoT to their markets and provide solutions for some of the largest brands in the world.