PHY Wireless, Nordic to Offer Ultra- Low-Power Location Technology for IoT Applications
PHY Wireless entered into a strategic collaboration with Nordic Semiconductor to integrate its ultra-low-power location technology with Nordic’s nRF9151 system-in-package (SiP) module. This collaboration leverages 3GPP-standardized signaling to deliver power-efficient, high-accuracy location solutions worldwide with PHY Wireless’s industry-first on-device observed time difference of arrival (OTDOA) solution.
The two companies are conducting real-world trials across three continents in partnership with several major mobile network operators (MNOs). These large-scale tests ensure seamless functionality across diverse network environments, reinforcing the solution’s reliability for global deployment.
By combining PHY Wireless’ hellaPHY technology with Nordic’s nRF9151 SiP module, enterprises will be empowered to deploy highly efficient, long-lasting IoT solutions for asset tracking, logistics, critical infrastructure, digital health, and smart city applications. The nRF9151 module, known for its high performance and ultra-low power consumption, is being touted as an ideal platform for enabling small, space-constrained IoT devices with advanced location capabilities.
Semtech Launches LoRa Plus LR2021 Transceiver
Semtech Corporation, a leading provider of high-performance semiconductors, IoT systems and cloud connectivity services, has introduced the LR2021, the first chip in the LoRa Plus family.
Incorporating a fourth-generation LoRa IP, the transceiver supports both terrestrial and SATCOM networks in the Sub-GHz, 2.4 GHz ISM bands and licensed S-band. The transceiver is designed to be backward compatible with previous LoRa devices, ensuring seamless LoRaWAN compatibility. The LR2021 addresses the demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled edge devices requiring low-power, extended range and superior penetration. It supports sensor data transmission for applications like gunshot detection, glass break sensing, license plate recognition, and fall detection, while operating on small batteries for years.
Shahar Feldman, senior product marketing director for LoRa ICs at Semtech, said the new product “revolutionizes” IoT connectivity by addressing key challenges for AI-powered deployments of any scale. “LoRa data rates are now increased to support an extended range of applications, from small payload sensor data to high-definition image transfer, facilitating the development of a new generation of intelligent IoT devices,” said Feldman.
Additionally, a data rate of up to 2.6 Mbps enables audio streaming and image transfer with outstanding link budget and efficiency. The state-of-the-art RF and analog architecture support multi-region deployment via a single-SKU design, while high integration reduces BOM costs, PCB footprint and power consumption compared to previous LoRa transceivers.
Toppan, Docomo Partner for Next-Generation 6G Services
Toppan and NTT Docomo signed a basic agreement to jointly develop communication services for the forthcoming 6G era. Under the terms of this agreement, Toppan will integrate its metaverse and advanced expression capabilities with Docomo Feel Tech platform.
The two companies will subsequently collaborate in the development and provision of services in the fields of education, skill transmission, and online shopping. The first step in the process will be the integration of Feel Tech with Toppan’s metaverse app Metapa, which features educational content for museums designed for interactive learning. Development discussions will commence in April 2025.
By incorporating Feel Tech’s sensory sharing capabilities into Metapa, both companies aim to develop next-generation content that will allow users to experience the texture of materials and tactile sensations of artists, enhancing art education through direct interaction.
CenTrak Expands Healthcare RTLS Platform with Plug-and-Play BLE
CenTrak announced the extension of its RTLS portfolio with the launch of a fully integrated, plug-and-play Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) platform. This cost-effective solution is designed to provide healthcare organizations with flexibility in supporting asset tracking, staff duress systems, and other essential applications.
Featuring a new suite of BLE tags, badges, and plug-and-play network devices, the platform is designed to ensure the reliability, scalability, and interoperability that hospitals require. As the first provider to deliver a full spectrum of location technologies on a single, interoperable platform, CenTrak, built on decades of industry expertise, sets itself apart from newer vendors that offer only BLE-based tracking.
“For years, healthcare facilities have faced a difficult choice when it comes to RTLS—opt for basic, lower-cost BLE solutions with limited precision or invest in clinical-grade locating for maximum accuracy. With CenTrak, they no longer have to choose,” shared Kevin Paroda, Director, Global Product Management at CenTrak. “Our scalable platform is built to evolve with healthcare organizations, seamlessly transitioning between BLE-Only, BLE Multi-Mode, and Clinical-Grade Locating networks. With a flexible, personalized approach, CenTrak empowers providers to deploy the right RTLS solution for their unique needs, both now and in the future.”
Additionally, CenTrak offers flexible software deployment models, including serverless, cloud-based options that reduce IT burden while maintaining robust security. Later this year, the company will further expand its cloud-based XaaS offerings, providing even greater affordability and ease of implementation for healthcare organizations.