what is your opinion on this choice of tech experts?
Recent Seesense update:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/seesense/seesense-air/posts/3807579
We trust this message finds you well. In our last update, we were very excited about the potential of a cellular solution being able to meet our needs. We were focused on working to enhance the final design to make it more discrete and difficult to remove.
Despite high hopes, our testing of this solution did not yield the performance we expected, particularly concerning standby time and the need for infrequent charging. With these factors in mind, we've made the tough decision to put this option aside. While this is a very disappointing end to this option, new technology options are now available.
As you may recall, our initial plans to utilise NB-IoT technology were put on hold when the anticipated network coverage from mobile operators failed to materialise. This impasse has been largely due to a chicken-and-egg scenario that has persisted across numerous countries over the past five years. Device manufacturers are seeking comprehensive network coverage to justify the use of such networks, while network providers require substantial orders to expand their networks.
This stalemate has stifled the growth and adoption of NB-IoT technology, limiting the options available for device manufacturers like us. As cyclists ourselves, we understand the importance of reliable network coverage for a bike tracker, and we have been keeping a close eye on any developments in this area. While the network providers have yet to step up, the integrated circuit manufacturers have.
Fortunately, these recent improvements in hardware solutions have paved the way for promising alternatives. These innovative technologies compensate for the lack of network coverage by allowing devices to connect to multiple networks seamlessly. This means that even if one network's coverage is insufficient, the device can switch to another network to maintain its transmitting capabilities.
Currently, our attention is directed towards two promising alternatives for the Knowhere bike tracker:
Option A - Dual SIM NB-IoT/LTE-M solution: This has proven effective in another sector and utilises a dual SIM approach, enhancing the technology used in our original implementation. While this option implies a higher cost on our end, it promises a superior solution for you. It's the most compact option and potentially the best; however, perfect coverage may still be elusive in some regions due to the reliance on telecom companies' network expansions as both NB-IoT and LTE-M are newer technologies. We have several devices undergoing field testing and we look forward to sharing results of this testing with you.
Option B - NB-IoT module with regular cellular fallback: This option offers a balanced blend of coverage and compactness, giving a reliable tracking experience. While it provides the broadest coverage today, we must consider that some developed countries are already phasing out or plan to terminate their older fallback networks by 2026, including Switzerland, Australia, and the United States, with others like the United Kingdom and Japan following suit. While we expect NB-IoT coverage to improve as older networks retire, this isn't guaranteed, hence our cautious approach.
In the face of changing technologies and unexpected challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to you, our valued backers. We are fully dedicated to exploring every option possible in order to provide you with a discreet, efficient, and reliable bike tracker. As we proceed with the testing of Options A and B, we promise to keep you updated on our progress. Your patience and support have been invaluable to us, and we look forward to delivering a product that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Happy pedalling,
Team See.Sense
