The Fragmented, Regulatory IoT Connectivity Landscape

As the market shifts to become further globalized, so does the demand for IoT devices to be able to seamlessly connect everywhere in the world—whether that is a fleet vehicle moving through Europe, asset trackers on shipping containers loaded at a port, or smart meters being shipped worldwide, all of which are powered by IoT connectivity. 

But the reality is—and always has been—that this is simply not possible on a large scale, through simple management, while meeting regulatory requirements. More and more, regulatory challenges stand in the way of worldwide connectivity as devices connect and send data from myriad endpoints worldwide. 

Permanent Roaming Restrictions

The rapid increase in connected devices has led some countries and independent mobile operators to implement “permanent roaming bans” to safeguard their spectrum. Under these restrictions, devices may use roaming for a limited duration, typically between three to six months, after which they are disconnected without the option to reconnect.

Countries such as Turkey, China, and Brazil have clear prohibitions against permanent roaming, while others adopt more subtle yet restrictive measures. For example, in the Middle East, all cellular services must be provided by licensed local operators, effectively ruling out permanent roaming. 

GDPR and Other Privacy Challenges

Data privacy is becoming increasingly crucial, yet privacy regulations can vary by country or sector, making it challenging for companies to navigate. An EU device deployed in Germany, for example, will run into trouble when sending data back and forth. This scenario raises concerns about potential violations of GDPR regulations, which require that data from EU devices remain within the EU.

Data sovereignty can also create hurdles, as some countries require that certain types of data (especially sensitive or personal data) be stored within their borders to ensure that data is subject to local jurisdiction and legal protections.

Global IoT Connectivity Needs a New Approach 

The opportunity in IoT has somewhat hindered in the past due to the lack of connectivity infrastructure on a global scale. However, we are approaching a stage where IoT solutions can no longer depend on traditional roaming agreements and a network infrastructure designed for individual consumers. Instead, IoT technology providers must explore alternatives that offer more secure, efficient, and sustainable long-term solutions tailored specifically for IoT. 

Get Key Insights into Regulatory IoT Connectivity and Next-Gen IoT Connectivity

Join floLIVE’s CEO Nir Shalom and Transforma Insight’s Founding Partner Matt Hatton in a webinar on October 30 at 11 a.m. ET | 3 p.m. GMT to discuss regulation, which Transforma Insights has identified as a top “IoT Transition Topic” impacting the industry in 2024. 

Learn insights on security, privacy, licensing and permanent roaming, what verticals are impacted, and how to overcome these growing challenges. Registrations will get a copy of the analyst report from Transforma Insights as comprehensive reference guide to the regulatory landscape in IoT. 

Register here and we hope to see you there.