SkyBitz, a provider of remote asset tracking and information management solutions, and Iridium Communications Inc., a provider of global mobile satellite services (MSS), have formed a strategic partnership. The companies are developing a two-way, remote asset tracking and monitoring solution through the integration of SkyBitz Global Locating System (GLS) technology with the recently announced Iridium 9602 satellite data transceiver.
The Iridium 9602 is a small, lightweight and low-cost transceiver that enables global, two-way satellite links for low-latency, real-time data transmission. By integrating SkyBitz GLS technology with the Iridium 9602, the companies will create an open architecture and scalable platform that is not restricted to custom mobile terminal hardware.
The combination of the SkyBitz GLS technology and the worldwide reach of the Iridium two-way satellite communications network positions the companies to further penetrate the expanding global machine-to-machine (M2M) market. The new solution that SkyBitz and Iridium are building will be aimed at markets such as trailer tracking, oil, gas, chemical, rail, cargo shipping and government, where there are requirements for intelligent sensor solutions and power-efficient, two-way communications to deliver critical insights on valuable assets. In addition, these markets require continuous, global in-transit visibility from origin to final destination. According to Strategy Analytics, the mobile M2M communications annual market is estimated to grow from approximately $16 billion in 2008 to more than $57 billion in 2014.
The two companies have already co-developed solution prototypes and conducted testing. Upon the new solution’s commercial availability, SkyBitz plans to offer this as part of its suite of GLS solutions to its customers for their asset tracking needs in both the U.S. and abroad.
