Low-power networks include NB-IoT (narrowband-IoT) and LTE-M (Long-term evolution for machines), connect devices and sensors over cellular networks.

These are used to monitor environments in industries including smart cities, agriculture, and manufacturing.

This substantial growth of 560% over the next five years will be driven by increased bilateral roaming agreements that cater specifically to these low-power devices.

However, the report warns that operators are still underprepared to capitalise on this market shift and the significant roaming revenue arising.

Juniper Research said a key challenge is operators’ inefficiency in detecting low-power devices roaming on their networks.

Inability to detect devices means operators could lose potential revenue from the undetected devices.

Due to their low data usage and intermittent connectivity, these devices require constant network monitoring to fully maximise roaming revenue. Therefore, the report recommends that operators partner with vendors who can provide AI-based roaming detection services.

These services will automate the continuous assessment of all roaming connections on their network and identify low-power devices that sporadically roam onto networks.

“Operators must fully leverage the insights gained from AI‑based detection tools to introduce premium billing of roaming connections to further maximise roaming revenue,” remarked research author Alex Webb.

“This must be done by implementing roaming agreements that price roaming connectivity on network resources used and time connected to the network.”