Gemalto, a leader in digital security, has announced that Mobily, Saudi Arabia’s leading mobile operator, has selected Gemalto’s Machine Identification Module (MIM) for the deployment of machine-to-machine (M2M) services.

Gemalto’s MIM specifically meets the demanding and high durability requirements of industrial environments especially in Saudi Arabia’s acute climates, and will be the first implementation of dedicated M2M technology in the Middle East, a statement said.

The Gemalto devices will be installed for upcoming Saudi M2M projects in the power management and transportation industries such as Smart Grid Metering and Fleet Tracking.

M2M technology opens up new channels and business opportunities for Mobily. Embedded in Smart Grid Metering, the MIM solution allows utility companies in Saudi to collect and monitor electricity consumption data remotely and in real time.

Used for fleet tracking, the solution enables logistics companies to continuously monitor the flow of vehicles for route optimization with up-to-date traffic information. The technology will make business processes more efficient and cost-effective while ensuring service continuity.

“Tests made on Gemalto’s dedicated M2M solution confirmed the highest standards in robustness, a key element for successful, long lasting M2M connectivity. This partnership will better enable us to launch M2M services with the premium quality we are renowned for and will benefit our customers seeking long-term, reliable solutions,” said Dr Marwan Al Ahmadi, chief business officer at Mobily.

Benoit Jouffrey, vice president M2M Value Added Services at Gemalto, said: “Adopting the MIM standard positions Mobily as the only operator in the Middle East capable of addressing the Saudi industry unique requirements as a key, reliable M2M service provider.”

“This will definitely have a positive impact on various industries who aspire to automate processes for more reliable, cost effective and real time operations. With M2M connectivity forecast to exceed two billion devices by 2020, the use of MIMs will help expand the mobile operator’s horizons to provide new services and diversify revenue channels,” Jouffrey added. – TradeArabia News Service