Swiss firm U-Blox has announced an LTE Cat 1bis IoT module in a 16 by 16mm form factor.

The Lexi-R1 adapts to size-demanding designs, making it suitable for use cases such as asset tracking and aftermarket telematics.

Three times smaller than the firm’s Lena-R8 (256 versus 810mm²), it suits applications requiring Cat 1bis connectivity without 2G fallback or positioning features. It has been designed as a single-mode LTE-only module.

The Lena-R8 is still a reliable option for applications that need 2G fallback and positioning with the embedded U-Blox M10 GNSS platform.

LTE Cat 1bis was initially introduced in 3GPP release 13 in 2016 but only recently garnered market attention in light of the planned or already executed sunset of 2G cellular technology in many regions. LTE Cat 1bis is globally available via LTE networks, yet more affordable than higher data rate LTE categories.

The Lexi-R10 is a single-mode module providing indoor positioning and a US MNO-certified core. The module also offers wifi radio to scan available wifi hotspots. This information can be used by positioning applications via a location-based service such as the firm’s CellLocate Wifi.

“The U-Blox Lexi-R10 is the right choice whenever size constraints drive the design,” said Samuele Falcomer, senior product line manager at U-Blox. “For instance, Lexi-R10 adapts perfectly to the requirements of pet and personal trackers. Its convenient size allows designers to explore setups so far unthinkable.”

The first samples will be available early next year.

With headquarters in Thalwil, Switzerland, U-Blox (www.u-blox.com) has offices in Europe, Asia and the USA.