LTE-M in a nutshell
Deploying the IoT on a massive scale cannot be accomplished within a one-size-fits-all approach. Users, developers and customers will increasingly expect IoT solutions that can transmit more content in real-time, whether static or mobile, without being constrained by energy use, high costs or coverage. This is where LTE-M comes in.
As various low-power, wide area (LPWA) network technologies prove themselves adequate for many IoT applications, the 3GPP standardized several cellular-based IoT technologies, including LTE-M, to support new use cases and make them sustainable. Orange has endorsed LTE-M technology and prepares its deployment over its 4G footprint, in order to facilitate new IoT services, especially based on real-time communication and mobility.
LTE-M at a glance
LTE-M, a 3GPP-based IoT solution
 |
Standardized evolution of 4G LTE |
 |
Inband deployment in existing LTE band 800/1800 MHz |
 |
Implemented via 4G networks software upgrade |
 |
SIM & eSIM* encryption and authentication |
 |
Compatible with existing M2M data roaming model |
  |
Short roll-out time and low deployment costs |
 |
Deployment within Orange Europe footprint to start in 2018 |
Key strengths of the LTE-M standard
 |
Cat-M1 device support |
 |
Low cost modules (Target ~ 5$ ) |
 |
Power optimisation features: Power Saving Mode, eDRX |
 |
Extended coverage & deep indoor |
 |
Real-Time Bi-directional link |
 |
Half/full mode (max 380 kbps/1 Mbps) |
 |
High speed mobility support & connected mode handover |
 |
VoLTE support* |
LTE-M verticals and target use cases
 |
Smart territories & industry
|
 |
Automative & logistics
|
 |
Smart home
|
 |
Personal IoT
|
*Basic VoLTE enabled by LTE-M standards to be implemented in secondary deployment phase
How Orange supports the deployment of LTE-M connectivity
Orange is actively involved in supporting the growth of LTE-M, which offers valuable solutions for mobile IoT and guarantees the sustainability of IoT solutions over several years. Pilot projects include field trials with network vendors, and validating chipsets and modules for European network bands.
Orange is already upgrading its 4G networks to deploy LTE-M, starting with its Belgium and Spain affiliates by end-2017, before extending to the rest of the Group’s European footprint.
Innovate with Orange
Orange is seeking partners to develop pilot projects with LTE-M connectivity in European markets. In May 2017, Orange inaugurated the Open IoT Lab at Orange Gardens, the group’s innovation campus in Châtillon, France. Developers and partners can apply to benefit from its resources, which include LoRa and LTE-M starter kits, testing tools in extended coverage conditions and support from Orange experts.