Sigfox has publicly released the specification of its radio protocol for connected objects. The French IoT firm said it expects a “boom” in the number of objects connected to its networks as a result.
The release of its radio specifications means any manufacturer and developer can now build and register products on the Sigfox network. This will make open source implementations easier and open up new IoT markets and use cases for developers and manufacturers, the company said.
The move applies to connected objects, rather than Sigfox’s patent-protected base stations and infrastructure.
Until now, the specification was only shared under NDA upon request, in order for Sigfox to control the number of objects applying to connect to its network.
"The opening of the specification has always been part of Sigfox’s ambition and we’re excited for the thousands of new use cases that will emerge,” said Christophe Fourtet, co-founder of Sigfox. “Our partners all over the world are looking forward to being part of this development.”
Sigfox said this is a "classic step in the establishment of a standard”, like Bluetooth for example.
The company provides a global Zero Generation (0G) network, which is available in 60 countries, supporting billions of low-power Internet-connected devices.