April 4, 2016

Ofcom not only wants to ensure adequate spectrum, but to encourage investment and innovation in this developing technology.

According to Ofcom, the IoT is set to enable large numbers of previously unconnected devices to communicate and share data with one another, a process known as “Machine-to-Machine” communications (M2M).

Ofcom is allocating 10 MHz of VHF spectrum, which will enable certain IoT devices to connect wirelessly over long distances.

Ofcom says that access to spectrum in this range could open new opportunities and bring benefits to consumers, especially those in remote and rural parts of the UK.  The frequencies being made available span the 55-68 MHz, 70.5-71.5 MHz and 80.5-81.5 MHz bands.

There are already more than 40 million devices connected via the IoT in the UK alone.  This is forecast to grow more than eight-fold by 2022, with hundreds of millions of devices carrying out more than a billion daily data transactions.  To read Ofcom’s statement, click here.