ZTE Corporation has jointly launched an Internet of Things (IoT) platform in Africa with leading ICT provider, MTN Group. The innovative platform adopts cutting-edge technologies suited to developing markets, bringing flexible connectivity for devices in the region. ZTE and MTN have also launched a global machine to machine (M2M) SIM card, providing customers with a blanket rate for M2M activity across MTN’s African network.
 
It has been predicted that by 2020 there will be 50 billion connected devices around the world, facilitated by the growing use of IoT devices and M2M communication. In the Middle East and Africa (MEA), IoT and M2M technology will drive business growth in sectors such as banking, transportation, energy, and public services through smart cities. MTN Group has developed a clear strategy to contribute to this growth, as well as an extensive range of IoT/M2M products and services from connectivity, managed connectivity and end-to-end solutions, designed to provide benefits for businesses, government and consumers.
 
“Working across such a wide range of vertical markets, from automotive and healthcare to construction and utilities requires a level of flexibility and scalability that only a cloud-based platform can deliver. The new IoT platform provided by ZTE, which is live in South Africa and able to connect and manage machines across MTN’s African footprint, provides a dedicated network to connect devices and systems,” said Zhao Peng, VP of ZTE Corporation.
 
“At MTN, we are particularly excited by the opportunity that the IoT platform creates for African enterprises, entrepreneurs and developers, as they now have the means to enable and inspire growth in their markets. In addition to this, the platform and its associated integrated network environment will enable MTN to introduce application services with the potential to enhance the socio-economic environment in South Africa and throughout the rest of the continent,” said Mteto Nyati, MTN Group Chief Enterprise Officer.
 
With the launch of the innovative IoT/M2M platform in partnership with ZTE, MTN has demonstrated its commitment to using bigger, faster networks to provide next-generation services to customers across each of its markets. MTN is working with a number of leading organisations to support the development of smart cities.