Omantel has successfully trialled 5G passive IoT technology.

The Oman telco has completed a lab trial of self-operating passive IoT technology. Unlike conventional IoT devices that rely on batteries, passive IoT devices operate using ambient energy sources. This trial is a step towards providing low-energy, high-efficiency technology aligned with global trends in adopting sustainable and eco-friendly digital innovations.

This achievement builds on Omantel’s trial of RedCap technology last year, designed to enable effective connectivity for low-capability devices, thereby improving internet efficiency and expanding the scope of IoT applications.

“This success reaffirms Omantel’s commitment to leading digital transformation by adopting the latest global technologies that support the development of a future-ready digital infrastructure,” said Saleem bin Ahmed Abdullatiff, vice president at Omantel. “By enabling efficient and reliable options such as passive IoT, we contribute to building a technology-enabled society and strengthening Oman’s position as a regional hub for innovation. We remain dedicated to supporting national objectives and addressing the evolving needs of individuals and businesses across the sultanate.”

Passive IoT is considered a promising future application of 5G networks, offering numerous opportunities for sectors such as logistics, healthcare and smart agriculture. Unlike traditional IoT devices, passive IoT tags do not require battery power, making them easier to install, reducing maintenance and replacements, and ensuring longer operational life.

The trial demonstrated the effectiveness of passive IoT over Omantel’s 5G network, proving its ability to connect over distances of up to 200m. The technology is expected to bring a qualitative shift in business models across various sectors by creating revenue streams and accelerating their digital transformation agendas.

Omantel’s future 5G-powered passive IoT network will be capable of supporting millions of passive sensors across sectors such as retail, logistics and manufacturing.

The relationship between RedCap and passive IoT technologies reflects an integrated approach towards enabling a digital environment that supports diverse types of smart devices, whether requiring direct connectivity, such as RedCap devices, or operating passively using ambient energy, such as passive IoT.

Omantel (www.omantel.om) invests in emerging technologies and provides ICT for cloud, AI and cyber security, in addition to harnessing its technological capabilities to enhance innovation in new and advanced technologies.