Qatar advances next-gen network tech for smart IoT

Following testing and deployment, Ooredoo claims it has become the first operator in Qatar to launch long-term evolution for machines (LTE-M), also known as CAT-M1, a next-generation network technology purpose-built for massive Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

LTE-M is a low-power wide-area (LPWA) technology, designed specifically for machine-type communications. It delivers efficient, reliable connectivity for a broad range of smart devices, including sensors, trackers, and wearables, enabling low-power, low-data IoT use cases at scale.

IoT and smart city deployments

According to Ooredoo, this technology is ideally suited for large-scale IoT deployments, powering applications such as smart city services, smart metering, asset tracking, supply chain management, and security monitoring across key sectors and industries.

This includes smart cities, transport and logistics, utilities, oil and gas, healthcare, banking, industrial safety, and security.

“This technology provides the backbone for the next generation of IoT solutions, from smart cities to industrial automation, cementing our position as a digital enabler”

With LTE-M, businesses can deploy smarter and more sustainable IoT solutions thanks to its core features such as:

• Exended battery life – up to 10 years for compatible devices
• Deep coverage – reliable connections indoors and underground
• Low latency – enabling near real-time communication
• Full mobility – ideal for tracking moving assets such as vehicles and shipments.

Together, these capabilities make LTE-M a powerful enabler for scalable, energy-efficient, and future-ready IoT deployments across industries in Qatar.