Remote beehive monitoring is taking flight, thanks to the collaboration between T-Mobile and SpaceX’s Starlink satellite service, which is now supporting a range of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. An exciting example of this innovation can be seen in New Zealand, where beekeepers are harnessing this technology to monitor their hives from afar.
Global network providers have shown considerable interest in Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite connectivity, but New Zealand’s One NZ and T-Mobile in the US have been pioneers in deploying it. One NZ has been offering a Starlink connection since November, while T-Mobile launched its service in July, making One NZ slightly ahead in offering additional satellite services.
Starlink had promised IoT connectivity this year, and One NZ is already delivering it to its subscribers. Beekeepers in the remote areas of New Zealand, where cellular coverage is sparse, are using this connectivity to monitor critical factors like temperature and humidity in their hives. The equipment, made from readily available components, allows for this innovative approach, which was previously too expensive for many.
This development enables beekeepers to gather honey more efficiently and decide on relocating hives without incurring high costs.
Meanwhile, T-Mobile is gearing up to offer IoT connectivity as well, potentially aligning it with an upcoming data download service set to launch in October. In a recent upgrade, T-Mobile’s T-Satellite plan now includes multimedia messaging, enabling users to send photos, GIFs, and short videos or audio clips from areas without traditional cell coverage, though these features are currently limited to certain Samsung phones.
