Time to Evaluate an Alternate IoT Solutions Provider? AT&T and Verizon Move Ahead with 2G Shutdown!!!

The number of IoT devices is predicted to grow to 26 billion units in 2020, which is nearly a 30-fold increase from the 0.9 billion IoT units that existed in 2009, according to Gartner. Gartner also predicts IoT adoption to grow steadily each year, with annual growth in the range of 15-20%. Wireless carrier networks is the primary source used to connect these devices. 

AT&T Mobility is still on track to shut down its 2G network by the end of 2016. As well, Verizon's 2G & 3G CDMA networks will retire by 2021. This move will help the two carriers to repurpose that spectrum for their faster 3G and 4G networks. 

However concerns are surfacing as timelines are closing fast for many businesses & consumers who will need to make a decision on how they will act. For fleets, manufacturing & security systems 2G has been greatly used. Since some systems &/ or applications don’t use a lot of bandwidth when tracking assets, it consequently makes the use of the inexpensive 2G technology a great choice. The 2G & 3G CDMA shutdown will cause headaches for those using it.

What does that mean for businesses & consumers who use 2G &/ or 3G devices?

If you or your business currently use #2G GSM, 2G CDMA or #3G CDMA devices, you will be affected at some point. You might experience latency, as you travel in and out of affected areas already. Many older #vehicletracking devices are using 2G networks today. Vehicle #Telematics & #fleet owners may find themselves unable to track their trucks, vans, and company cars. As well #Manufacturing & #Security systems that run on 2G &/ or Verizon 3G will no longer work after the service is shutdown.

What are your options for devices that operate solely on a 2G &/ or 3G networks?

1. You will have to replace the devices by upgrading your equipment. In addition, renew a term and select a new 3G or 4G rate plan.
2. Alternatively, if you prefer to keep the equipment you have, you will need to switch to another carrier who supports 2G & 3G network capabilities. Most equipment has the ability to work with multiple carriers, but the only way to find out is to speak with a carrier.
3. Consult with a Sprint Account Manager or IoT Subject Matter Expert to evaluate your options. Sprint will continue to operate their 2G & 3G network.
4. Most importantly don't wait till the last minute, act fast so you can outweigh all your options 

Need to know more about Sprint Asset Tracking capabilities, click here.

If you have any questions or need help with your options, send me a message. I'll get you to the right contact who can help you further.