Global IoT Network Grid: Empowering Connectivity for Industry Transformation

Ankur Bhan, Nokia

Businesses are increasingly turning to robust network connectivity to secure market leadership. According to Ankur Bhan, Global Head of Nokia’s Worldwide IoT Network Grid (WING), the rewards of harnessing wireless connectivity are boundless.

By enabling real‑time collection, analysis and interpretation of data, the WING platform unlocks digital transformation, driving efficiency across every business unit and industry sector.

The Power of Wireless Connectivity

Wireless connectivity propels sectors such as agriculture, logistics and transport into a new era of operational excellence. When paired with broadband cellular technology, it provides enterprises with instant access to advanced analytics that can maximise revenue and profit.

While many organisations aspire to integrate IoT into their infrastructure, they often lack the tools to fully exploit emerging wireless use cases. Mobile operators, meanwhile, seek new revenue streams with low risk and minimal capital outlay, avoiding the expense of building isolated IoT networks.

The Complexities of Global Connectivity

The foremost challenge for global enterprises is the complexity and cost of managing connectivity across multiple networks. Collaborating with local operators to deliver comprehensive IoT services can lay the groundwork for a mutually beneficial partnership and enable seamless worldwide coverage—something only global operators can provide.

Mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) need a solution that supports their enterprise customers with global IoT connectivity, wherever they operate. A single, global IoT service ensures consistent performance, which is critical for enterprises where even marginal improvements in asset monitoring can translate into substantial financial gains.

Modernising Port Operations

Ships transport over 90% of world trade, and a single container vessel can carry cargo worth US$30 million (€24.75 million) to $50 million (€41.24 million). To remain competitive, ports must become efficient hubs on international and domestic freight routes.

One of Thailand’s largest port operators sought to achieve this by gaining comprehensive visibility of its terminal assets, requiring a reliable mobile network partner.

The Japanese MVNO Marubeni Network Solutions Inc. delivered a managed IoT connectivity and end‑to‑end asset‑management solution as a Service, providing a single view of key performance indicators for yard operations.

Through real‑time monitoring of trucks, cranes and other port vehicles, the service tracked container movements and enabled proactive maintenance of critical equipment. The data also supported safety and security measures for port staff.

A Wireless Network Grid for the Future

Across industries, the pursuit of efficiency and cost reduction remains constant. Businesses without their own network infrastructure must partner with mobile operators to overcome these hurdles. The emerging paradigm demands connectivity that is consistent, seamless, and market‑agnostic, while supporting diverse services and controlling costs.

Such a framework empowers enterprises and helps MNOs expand beyond traditional subscribers, unlocking global IoT opportunities and the promise of 5G with minimal risk and investment.

The author is Ankur Bhan, Head of Network Function as a Service, and founder of Nokia’s Worldwide IoT Network Grid (WING).