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Sierra Wireless and AT&T will pilot next generation LTE-M network technologies this autumn. The pilot programme aims to spur LTE network connections for Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

The Sierra Wireless LTE-M module will support the AT&T pilot with several technology leaders in the San Francisco Bay Area in November.

LTE-M technology works specifically with IoT devices, such as smart meters, mHealth and wearables. AT&T plans to make the technology commercially available in 2017.

LTE-M technology benefits IoT through:

• Lower costs for gateway modules to the LTE network
• Longer battery life; 10+ years for enabled IoT devices
• Better LTE coverage underground and in building areas that challenge existing coverage

“Our work with Sierra Wireless will help drive the benefits of LTE-M to a broad range of businesses and industries,” said Chris Penrose, SVP, Internet of Things Solutions, AT&T. “Our customers that use industrial, Smart Cities and wearable solutions are eager to tap into these new tools.”

“Millions of new IoT devices and services require low-power, low-cost cellular connectivity, which Low Power Wide Area technologies like LTE-M are designed to deliver,” said Dan Schieler, SVP, OEM Solutions, Sierra Wireless. “This pilot will show how LTE-M will connect a new generation of IoT applications.”

Sierra Wireless AirPrime® LTE-M modules, part of the industry-leading HL Series, are expected be commercially available in the first half of 2017. The HL Series uses the CF3™ form factor, which is footprint-compatible across product lines and network technologies. And it’s fully interchangeable with current and future modules, according to Sierra Wireless.

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