With so many options for IoT connectivity, choosing the right technology can be a daunting task. To help you navigate this decision, we spoke with Duncan Griffiths, Cellhire’s Head of IoT, to explore the different types of cellular connectivity available today and how to select the best fit for your application. From the upcoming 2G/3G sunset to the transformative potential of 5G, Duncan offers expert insights into the world of IoT connectivity.
Q1: Why choose cellular connectivity for your IoT applications?
“At Cellhire, we recognise that cellular connectivity offers numerous advantages over other methods of IoT connectivity. Cellular offers the kind of reliability and scale that IoT applications need to truly make an impact,” Duncan explains. “Whether you're connecting security systems or tracking assets globally, cellular networks offer a level of coverage that other technologies simply cannot match. Cellular networks are designed to handle millions of connections, so as your IoT deployments grow, your connectivity remains seamless. It's all about giving businesses the freedom to innovate without worrying about network limitations.”
Cellular networks offer flexibility and durability, making them ideal for IoT deployments across a range of industries, from logistics and transportation to agriculture and healthcare.
Q2: What are the different types of cellular connectivity available?
“When it comes to cellular connectivity for IoT, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” Duncan notes. “2G and 3G have long been the foundation for basic, low-data IoT applications, such as older vehicle tracking systems or smart meters. However, with most UK networks already phasing out 3G this year and 2G set to follow in the coming years, businesses need to start the transition to newer technologies.”
Duncan continues, “4G offers faster speeds, making it ideal for data-heavy applications like video surveillance and healthcare devices. Meanwhile, 5G represents the future—it provides ultra-low latency and high bandwidth, which is crucial for real-time applications like autonomous vehicles and robotics. The ability to transfer large volumes of data with minimal delay is what sets 5G apart.
For low-power IoT devices, such as sensors in agriculture or environmental monitoring, LTE-M and NB-IoT are the go-to options. These technologies are designed for devices that need long battery life and wide coverage, even in remote or hard-to-reach areas. Ultimately, it’s about choosing the right tool for the job.”
Q3: What should I look for when choosing the right connectivity?
“Choosing the right cellular connectivity solution for your IoT project goes beyond just the technical specifications. You need to think about the unique requirements and goals of your deployment, Duncan explains. “There are a few key factors that should guide your decision, and it's not always a one-size-fits-all solution. Let’s break it down:
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Coverage and range: If you're deploying IoT devices in rural or remote areas—think agriculture, construction sites, or warehouses—you’ll need to ensure the network coverage is sufficient. In these environments, low-power, wide-area networks (LPWAN) like NB-IoT or LTE-M can be a great choice. They offer broad coverage, even in difficult environments where traditional connectivity may struggle.
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Latency: For applications where real-time data is critical, such as traffic management systems or healthcare monitoring, you can’t afford delays. Latency, the time it takes for data to travel from the device to the network, has to be incredibly low. This is where 5G shines, as its ultra-low latency makes it ideal for time-sensitive applications, like autonomous vehicles or remote surgeries.
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Power consumption: If you’re deploying devices that need to last for years on a single battery—like environmental sensors or smart meters—power consumption becomes a major consideration. In these cases, technologies like NB-IoT and LTE-M are designed to use very little energy, extending battery life significantly.
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Scalability: As your application grows, so will the number of devices. Cellular networks, especially technologies like 4G and 5G, are built to scale, meaning they can handle more devices without sacrificing performance. This is especially important if you plan to expand your IoT deployment over time.
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Network longevity: With 3G already being phased out this year and 2G soon to follow, it's important to invest in a technology that is built to stay. Opting for 4G or 5G will give you a future-proof solution that won't require costly upgrades in a few years when older networks retire.
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Cost considerations: Cost is always a factor, and it goes beyond just the price of the hardware. You also need to think about the ongoing costs—data plans, power usage, and maintenance. 5G is amazing, but it might be overkill for applications that don’t need super-fast data transfer, like simple monitoring systems. Balancing performance with cost-effectiveness is key.”
“At Cellhire, we make it our priority to understand your unique application,” Duncan adds. “We’ll work with you to understand your specific requirement and recommend the most appropriate solution based on these and a range of other criteria. It’s all about finding the right balance between speed, latency, coverage, and power consumption for your project’s needs,” Duncan explains.
Q4: What’s the most exciting thing happening in cellular IoT right now?
“The rise of 5G is incredibly exciting,” Duncan says enthusiastically. “But it’s not just about faster connectivity speeds—it’s about opening up entirely new possibilities. 5G allows us to dream bigger. Imagine complex surgical procedures being performed when the patient and the surgeon are in different continents. In automotive, autonomous vehicles can now communicate instantly with each other, making transport systems safer and smarter.”
He continues, “We’re already seeing 5G in use in IIoT (Industrial IoT), especially in smart factories where machines communicate in real-time to boost efficiency and reduce downtime. The potential is limitless. 5G is set to transform industries like healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing in ways we’re only beginning to explore.”
Ready to choose the right connectivity?
IoT connectivity is constantly evolving, and choosing the right cellular technology is essential for ensuring the success of your IoT applications. Whether you’re looking to deploy sensors in rural areas or connect real-time systems, the right cellular connectivity can make all the difference.
At Cellhire, we’ll guide you through your options and find the best fit for your business, helping you stay connected.
