The telecom and roaming industries are experiencing a significant transformation with the rapid rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication, alongside the revolutionary power of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

At the heart of this evolution are roaming hubs, which enable seamless global connectivity and intelligent network management. Drawing on years of expertise in the telecom industry, we explore how IoT/M2M and AI are shaping the current and future landscape of roaming hubs, with a special focus on the leading Roaming Hub service, the Key2roam Hub.

The intersection of IoT/M2M and Roaming Hubs

IoT/M2M refers to a network of interconnected devices that communicate and exchange data without human intervention. These technologies are revolutionizing various industries, such as healthcare, automotive, manufacturing, and smart cities. The demand for connectivity is higher than ever and these devices need to be connected every time and can be deployed everywhere.

Key2roam Hub, Comfone´s flagship Roaming Hub service, ensures global connectivity for IoT and M2M devices by managing and routing traffic across different networks. It keeps devices connected and operational regardless of location, which is crucial for applications like remote monitoring, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation. With several connected M2M/IoT players, Key2roam Hub enables rapid expansion of roaming coverage, helping new entrants scale their operations quickly.

Challenges in IoT/M2M roaming

Scalability and device management

The explosive growth of IoT devices poses scalability challenges. Key2roam Hub handles over 30´000 roaming connections for over 480 networks, ensuring reliable and efficient communication. Our state-of-the-art IPX service guarantees a smooth handling of all the traffic in our fully redundant and geo distributed Key2roam Platform.

Security and privacy

IoT/M2M devices often transmit sensitive data, making security a top priority. Key2roam Hub adheres to robust security measures to protect against data breaches and cyberattacks. Encryption, secure authentication, and compliance with data protection regulations are essential to safeguard device communication.

Monetisation

Monetisation is a hot topic when it comes to M2M/IoT, especially on how to monetize devices with very low usage that are permanently connected to the visited networks.

New charging models are needed to provide fair compensation for the visited networks that need to invest on the network to cope with the growth of their network usage. However, TAP does not support new charging models and BCE (Billing and Charging Evolution) is not yet widely used.

Comfone´s Phoenix Key2roam service is designed to help define new charging models within the Key2roam Hub for new IoT/M2M players without the need of any of the operators to be BCE compliant. This innovative solution allows these players to connect worldwide while enabling visited networks to monetise this traffic effectively. By creating flexible and sustainable business models, Phoenix Key2roam ensures that all stakeholders benefit from the growing IoT/M2M ecosystem.

AI: Enhancing the capabilities of Roaming Hubs

AI-Driven Network Management

AI can significantly enhance the management and optimization of roaming hubs. Machine learning algorithms analyse vast amounts of data to predict network traffic patterns, detect anomalies, and optimize routing. This leads to improved network performance, reduced latency, and better resource allocation.

Predictive maintenance

AI enables predictive maintenance of network infrastructure. By analysing historical data and identifying patterns, AI can predict potential failures and trigger preventive measures. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs, ensuring continuous and reliable connectivity.

Real-time analytics and decision making

AI-powered real-time analytics provide insights into network performance, user behaviour, and device activity. These insights can be used to make informed decisions, optimize services, and enhance the overall user experience. Real-time analytics also aid in rapid detection and mitigation of issues, minimizing service disruptions.

Automated fraud detection

AI enhances security by detecting fraudulent activities in real time. Machine learning models identify unusual patterns and behaviors, triggering alerts and preventive actions. This helps protect against various types of fraud, including SIM card cloning, unauthorized access, and billing fraud.

Future trends in IoT/M2M and AI for Roaming Hubs

5G SA and beyond

The rollout of 5G SA networks will revolutionize IoT/M2M communication, offering ultra-low latency, high bandwidth, and massive connectivity. Roaming hubs, especially Key2roam Hub, will play a crucial role in managing the increased data traffic and ensuring seamless global connectivity for 5G-enabled devices. Comfone is currently running a 5G SA PoC and a few Key2roam Hub networks are participating to share experiences and learn together.

Edge computing and network slicing

Edge computing, which involves processing data closer to the source, will complement AI in optimizing network performance. Edge computing can be leveraged to reduce latency, enhance data processing speeds, and improve real-time decision-making for IoT/M2M applications.

By creating separate network slices that prioritise specific resources a 5G operator can offer tailored solutions to particular industries and offer superior Quality for Service to high demanding customers.

Conclusion

Roaming Hubs are integral to the success of IoT/M2M and AI, enabling seamless global connectivity and intelligent network management. Key2roam Hub, as the leading roaming Hub service, is at the forefront of this transformation. As the telecom industry continues to evolve, embracing these technologies will be crucial for addressing scalability, security, and performance challenges. By leveraging the power of AI, the potential of IoT/M2M, and the innovative solutions offered by Phoenix Key2roam, Key2roam Hub will transform global connectivity, driving innovation and creating new opportunities across industries.