Network Promises to Transform IoT by Enabling Low Module Prices, Longer Battery Life, Superior Coverage; Starter Kit to Engage Developers

AT&T[1] has completed deployment of its nationwide LTE-M network ahead of schedule. The network will enable a new generation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and applications.

The LTE-M network is now live across the U.S. on our nationwide 4G LTE network, following software upgrades. Our LTE-M deployment marks another step forward on our path to 5G and massive IoT. And the network is deployed with global, 3GPP standardized technology using licensed spectrum for carrier-grade security.

We plan to deploy LTE-M across Mexico by the end of 2017 to create a North American LTE-M footprint covering 400 million people.

We are also launching a full new suite of rate plans with LTE-M, with monthly plans starting for as little as $1.50 per month per device[2]. Further discounts will be available for yearly and multi-year plans, as well as volume commitments[3].  LTE-M modules will be available from our supplier for as low as $7.50 each, including a SIM card[4]. That’s half the cost of the LTE Cat-1 module AT&T launched with our supplier in 2016.

Plus, our current IoT starter kits with M14A2A modules will be software-upgradeable to LTE-M with an upcoming firmware update.

“Our nationwide LTE-M deployment is another example of AT&T’s continued investment and leadership in IoT,” said Chris Penrose, President, IoT Solutions, AT&T. “We can now reach new places and connect new things at a price that’s more affordable than ever before. Our LTE-M starter kit will also spur developers to open the doors to IoT innovation.”

Advantages of LTE-M over traditional IoT connectivity options include:

  • Longer battery life (expected up to 10 years).
  • Better coverage for IoT devices underground and deep inside buildings.
  • Reduced module size (as small as 1/6 the size of current modules).

LTE-M supports large-scale IoT deployments such as smart city services, smart metering, asset tracking, supply chain management, security and alarm monitoring and personal wearables. It has been embraced by leading global carriers. That helps build a broad base of ecosystem partners, devices and applications for global markets.

For more information about AT&T IoT services and support, go to www.att.com/iot.

[1] AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

[2] Plus SIM card fee, other setup charges, applicable taxes and fees.  Includes 0 KB of data.  Overage charges apply.  Other monthly plans available with data included.  Unused data expires at end of billing period.  US usage only.  Coverage and service not available everywhere.

[3] Annual and multi-year plans require prepayment.  All plans require a contract. 

[4] AT&T wireless service required.  Plus applicable taxes and fees.  AT&T’s supplier does not charge additional fees for intellectual property rights.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) helps millions around the globe connect with leading entertainment, business, mobile and high speed internet services. We offer the nation’s best data network* and the best global coverage of any U.S. wireless provider.** We’re one of the world’s largest providers of pay TV. We have TV customers in the U.S. and 11 Latin American countries. Nearly 3.5 million companies, from small to large businesses around the globe, turn to AT&T for our highly secure smart solutions. 

Additional information about AT&T products and services is available at about.att.com. Follow our news on Twitter at @ATT, on Facebook at facebook.com/att and YouTube at youtube.com/att.

© 2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and other marks are trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

*Claim based on the Nielsen Certified Data Network Score. Score includes data reported by wireless consumers in the Nielsen Mobile Insights survey, network measurements from Nielsen Mobile Performance and Nielsen Drive Test Benchmarks for Q3+Q4 2016 across 121 markets.

**Global coverage claim based on offering discounted voice and data roaming; LTE roaming; and voice roaming in more countries than any other U.S. based carrier. International service required. Coverage not available in all areas. Coverage may vary per country and be limited/restricted in some countries.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

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