Soracom - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
Soracom - Product Overview
Soracom Overview
Soracom is a leading provider of IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity solutions, particularly notable in the networking tools and AI-driven product category.
Primary Function
Soracom’s primary function is to provide secure, scalable, and cloud-native IoT connectivity. It enables devices to connect to the cloud using various network technologies, including cellular, Wi-Fi, ethernet, and even satellite connections. This is achieved through its platform services such as Soracom Air, Soracom Arc, and other complementary tools.
Target Audience
Soracom’s target audience is broad and includes enterprises, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), and startups. The company supports a wide range of industries, such as energy, retail, healthcare, consumer electronics, and agriculture, among others.
Key Features
Soracom Air
This service provides IoT-specific SIM cards and eSIMs that can be managed through APIs, dashboards, and other tools. It offers global, enterprise-grade cellular IoT connectivity, allowing devices to be shipped and managed securely worldwide.
Soracom Arc
This is a secure link service that allows devices to connect directly to the Soracom platform using any standard Internet connection. It ensures end-to-end security, similar to what is provided by Soracom Air, regardless of the underlying network type. Arc supports mixed-mode IoT systems, enabling seamless transitions between different connectivity technologies.
Cloud Integration
Soracom’s platform is built on Amazon Web Services (AWS), allowing for real-time management and optimization of connected devices using APIs, SDKs, or a web management console. This integration enables secure, scalable, and cloud-native connectivity.
Security and Privacy
Soracom offers various services to ensure device security, such as Beam for device encryption, Funnel for low-bandwidth data pipelines, and Endorse for device authentication. It also provides private networking services like Virtual Private Gateways and Canal, ensuring secure and private data flow.
Flexibility and Scalability
Soracom’s pay-as-you-go model and commitment-free services allow users to scale their IoT deployments from a few test devices to millions of global connections. The platform supports a wide range of protocols and can adapt to different network conditions.
Additional Tools
Soracom provides tools like Soratun, which simplifies the process of creating Virtual SIMs and configuring WireGuard connections, making it easier for devices to connect securely to the Soracom platform.
Overall, Soracom’s suite of services and tools is designed to make IoT connectivity simple, secure, and scalable, catering to a diverse range of users and applications.
Soracom - User Interface and Experience
Main Interface and Navigation
The Soracom User Console serves as the central hub for managing various aspects of IoT deployments. The interface features a top menu bar with clear and distinct sections such as SIM Management, Groups, Event Handler, VPG (Virtual Private Gateways), and more. This menu allows users to easily switch between different functions like managing Air SIMs, configuring group options, and handling events.
Ease of Use
The User Console is structured to make it easy for users to perform a wide range of tasks. For example, users can manage their SIMs, view and update payment options, and access detailed billing information all from a single console. The interface is intuitive, allowing users to add or remove SIMs, manage device groups, and configure various settings without needing extensive technical expertise.
Security and Access Management
The Security screen within the User Console is straightforward, enabling users to manage users and roles, credential sets, passwords, and multi-factor authentication settings. This includes adding or removing users, roles, and credential sets, as well as managing AuthKeys for programmatic access.
AI-Driven Tools
Soracom has integrated AI-powered tools to simplify and enhance IoT management. For instance, Soracom Flux allows users to build custom IoT applications using a low-code approach and generative AI engines. Soracom Query Intelligence enables users to query network data using natural language, receiving insights through descriptive text and data visualizations. These tools are designed to be accessible even to non-technical users, making it easier to manage and analyze IoT data.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience is streamlined to ensure efficiency and ease of use. Users can perform multiple functions from a central location, reducing the need to switch between different platforms. The inclusion of AI-driven tools like Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence further simplifies the management of IoT deployments by automating complex tasks and providing actionable insights without requiring advanced technical skills.
In summary, Soracom’s user interface is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible for a wide range of users to manage their IoT deployments effectively.
Soracom - Key Features and Functionality
Soracom AI-Driven Features
Soracom, a global provider of advanced IoT connectivity, has integrated several AI-driven features into its networking tools and services, which are particularly noteworthy in their IoT connectivity platform.
Soracom Flux
- Low-Code Application Builder: Soracom Flux allows users, even those without technical expertise, to build AI-integrated IoT applications in real time. This is achieved by defining data flows between sensors, cameras, actuators, and GenAI engines, all connected to the cloud. Flux integrates with leading cloud-based GenAI engines such as OpenAI, Google Gemini, Microsoft Azure AI, and Amazon Bedrock.
- Benefits: Flux simplifies the process of creating custom IoT applications, automating operations and enabling significant use cases in various industries like manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and more. It reduces the time required to build such applications from months to minutes.
Soracom Query Intelligence
- Natural-Language Network Data Analysis: This service uses GenAI to analyze IoT network data. Users can query their IoT network data in natural language and receive immediate analysis in the form of descriptive text and data visualizations. It builds on the Soracom Query managed data warehouse service, which stores and analyzes platform-level data including device connection session history, data usage, and billing information.
- Benefits: Query Intelligence enables users to perform complex data analysis without needing SQL programming or data visualization experience. For example, users can identify unstable devices or areas where carrier switching is necessary by simply asking for the relevant data.
Integration with AI Dynamics
- NeoPulse AI Platform: Through its partnership with AI Dynamics, Soracom offers access to the NeoPulse platform, which provides pre-built, fully trained AI/ML algorithm libraries. These libraries can be used for various applications such as inventory management, industrial process optimization, and more. This integration allows users to apply AI edge capabilities without requiring custom code.
- Benefits: This partnership makes AI more accessible to organizations of all sizes, enabling them to build deep learning models faster and manage datasets, model tracking, deployment, and monitoring automatically.
General AI Integration
- AI-Driven Data Management: Soracom’s services, such as Beam and Funnel, optimize data consumption by using low-bandwidth protocols like UDP, TCP, HTTP, and MQTT at the device level. These protocols are then translated into higher bandwidth, high-security protocols like HTTPS and MQTTs in the cloud. This optimization is further enhanced by AI-driven services that ensure efficient and secure data transfer.
- Benefits: This integration helps in reducing data and power consumption for connected devices and sensors, ensuring sustainable and efficient IoT deployments.
Conclusion
In summary, Soracom’s AI-driven features, such as Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence, significantly enhance the capabilities of IoT projects by simplifying application development, data analysis, and device management. These features, combined with partnerships like AI Dynamics, make AI more accessible and user-friendly for a wide range of IoT applications.
Soracom - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating Soracom’s Performance and Accuracy in AI-Driven Networking Tools
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of Soracom in the AI-driven networking tools category involves examining its recent advancements, particularly in integrating Generative AI (GenAI) into its IoT connectivity platform.
Performance
Soracom has made significant strides in enhancing the performance of its IoT connectivity services with the introduction of GenAI capabilities. Here are some key points:
Soracom Flux
This low-code application builder allows users, even those without technical expertise, to build AI-integrated IoT applications in real time. It streamlines the process of defining data flows between various components like sensors, cameras, actuators, GenAI engines, and the cloud, making it faster and more efficient to deploy IoT projects.
Soracom Query Intelligence
This service simplifies the management of large IoT deployments by enabling natural-language network data analysis. Users can query their IoT network data in plain language and receive immediate analysis, including descriptive text and data visualizations. This eliminates the need for SQL programming or data visualization experience, significantly speeding up complex data analysis tasks.
Soracom Harvest Data Intelligence
This service enhances Soracom’s data storage and visualization capabilities by applying GenAI to analyze time series data, identify trends, patterns, outliers, and abnormalities. It helps in making informed decisions based on real-time data analysis.
Accuracy
The accuracy of Soracom’s services is bolstered by the precision and reliability of its GenAI-driven tools:
Data Analysis
Soracom Query Intelligence and Soracom Harvest Data Intelligence provide accurate and detailed insights into IoT network data. For instance, users can identify unstable devices or areas requiring carrier switching with high accuracy by querying the system in natural language.
Real-Time Decision Making
The integration of GenAI enables real-time decision making by analyzing data as it is generated. This ensures that the insights provided are up-to-date and relevant, helping in maintaining the integrity and performance of IoT networks.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While Soracom’s services offer significant advancements, there are some limitations and areas that could be improved:
SIM-Based Routing Limitations
When using Soracom Canal’s Amazon VPC peering connection, there are specific limitations related to IP address range overlaps and outbound filters in cloud-to-device communications.
Arc Service Limitations
Soracom Arc, which provides secure connections over any standard Internet connection, has limitations such as restrictions on Virtual SIM status changes and certain features not being compatible with Arc connections (e.g., Local Info Report, SMS & USSD, IMEI Lock).
Availability
Some services, like Soracom Query Intelligence, are currently available only to select customers as a Technology Preview, indicating that broader availability might be an area for improvement.
In summary, Soracom’s performance and accuracy in the AI-driven networking tools category are enhanced by its innovative use of GenAI, which streamlines IoT project deployment and data analysis. However, there are specific limitations and areas where further development could improve the overall user experience and service capabilities.
Soracom - Pricing and Plans
Soracom Pricing Plans Overview
Soracom offers a range of pricing plans and features for its IoT connectivity and AI-driven products, which can be broken down into several categories.Soracom Flux
Soracom Flux is a low-code application builder that integrates AI into IoT applications. Here are the key plans and features:Free Plan
- Up to 3 Flux Apps
- Up to 300 events per day from Event Sources
- Up to 2000 Flux Credits for AI Actions
- Minimum timer event interval of 5 minutes
- Up to 100 emails per Soracom Account per month (max 10/hour)
- Limited support to inquiries about issues.
Pro Plan
(expected in fall 2024):
- Unlimited Flux Apps
- Unlimited events
- Up to 5000 Flux Credits for AI Actions
- Minimum timer event interval of 1 minute
- Unlimited email notifications (rate limit applies)
- Basic/Priority Support available.
Enterprise Plan
(expected in fall 2024):
- Similar to the Pro Plan but with potentially more comprehensive support and features, though specific details are not yet available.
Soracom Orbit
Soracom Orbit is a service that applies to SIMs within a group where Orbit is enabled. Here are the pricing details:Free Tier
- One SIM can use Orbit for free each month.
- The first 10,000 Orbit requests are free each month.
Service Fee
- $0.20 per SIM per month (Global)
- ¥20 per SIM per month (Japan).
Usage Fee
- $0.40 per 10,000 requests (Global)
- ¥40 per 10,000 requests (Japan).
Soracom Lagoon
Soracom Lagoon provides dashboard services with the following plans:Free Plan
- 1 dashboard
- 1 alert
- 1 editor
- Update rate of 60 seconds
- Data fetch limit of 10 MiB
- No additional cost.
Maker Plan
- $9.80 per month (Global) / ¥980 per month (Japan)
- 3 dashboards
- 10 alerts
- 1 editor
- 2 viewers
- Update rate of 30 seconds
- Data fetch limit of 20 MiB.
Pro Plan
- $49.80 per month (Global) / ¥4980 per month (Japan)
- 5 dashboards
- 20 alerts
- 1 editor
- 9 viewers
- Update rate of 5 seconds
- Data fetch limit of 50 MiB
- Additional features like dashboard permissions, snapshots, public dashboards, playlists, library panels, and custom logos.
IoT Connectivity Plans
For IoT connectivity, Soracom offers several options:Standard Pay-as-you-go Plan
- Globally portable service
- Coverage in nearly 150 countries
- Data metering pooled across all active SIMs with built-in discounts as data use increases.
Flat Rate Plan (North America)
- Packages start at $1 per month for 3MB of data, up to $6.99 per month for 100MB
- Data can be selected in increments of 3MB, 20MB, 50MB, or 100MB
- Commitment-free billing; users can scale up or down at any time
- Overages billed at standard pay-as-you-go rates.
Each of these plans is designed to cater to different needs and scales of IoT projects, offering flexibility and predictability in pricing.
Soracom - Integration and Compatibility
Soracom Overview
Soracom offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services that integrate seamlessly with a variety of platforms and devices, making it a versatile solution for IoT applications.
Cellular and Non-Cellular Connectivity
Soracom provides multiple connectivity options, including cellular networks through Soracom Air, which supports 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, 5G, LTE-M, and NB-IoT networks globally. This allows devices to connect using a single SIM card or Embedded SIM (eSIM), simplifying global coverage and integration with cloud services.
For non-cellular devices, Soracom Arc enables secure connections over WiFi, Ethernet, or even satellite networks. This service uses WireGuard® to create a secure VPN connection, ensuring that devices can access most Soracom platform services just as if they were connected via cellular networks.
Cloud Integrations
Soracom has direct integrations with leading cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform, and Microsoft Azure. The Soracom Funnel service, for example, allows data captured from IoT devices to be ingested automatically by these cloud services without the need for relay servers, SDK installations, or on-device credentials. This simplifies the process of transmitting data securely and reduces development overheads.
Multi-Protocol Support
Soracom supports a wide range of protocols, including MQTT, HTTP, TCP, UDP, and more. The platform can convert data protocols to ensure secure transmission, such as converting MQTT to MQTTS or HTTP to HTTPS. This flexibility is particularly useful for legacy devices that may use lighter or less secure protocols, as Soracom can handle the conversion to secure protocols automatically.
Unified Management
The Soracom platform offers a unified user console and powerful APIs that allow users to manage all their IoT devices from a single interface. This includes SIM lifecycle management, event handler automations, serverless data storage, and detailed visibility into device status and data usage. The platform supports grouping SIMs, managing connection speeds, applying IMEI locks, and more, all from a centralized dashboard.
Device Management and Security
Soracom provides extensive device management capabilities, including zero-touch provisioning for devices connecting via Soracom Arc. This means devices can obtain the necessary configuration and credentials to connect securely without manual intervention. Additionally, Soracom’s Krypton service handles secure provisioning, and the Endorse service manages SIM authentication, ensuring secure and seamless device onboarding.
Private Networking and Remote Access
Soracom allows users to create and manage private IoT networks, ensuring that data never traverses the public internet. The platform also supports remote device access through services like Soracom Napter, enabling maintenance tasks to be performed remotely without additional setup.
Conclusion
In summary, Soracom’s integration capabilities and compatibility across various platforms and devices make it an ideal solution for IoT applications. It offers seamless connectivity, cloud integrations, multi-protocol support, unified management, and robust security features, all designed to simplify and enhance the IoT development and deployment process.
Soracom - Customer Support and Resources
Soracom Customer Support Overview
Soracom offers a comprehensive range of customer support options and additional resources, particularly in their AI-driven product category, to ensure users can effectively utilize their IoT connectivity solutions.Creating a Support Request
To get support, users can create a support request through the Soracom User Console. Here’s how:- Login to the User Console.
- Click on Support, then select Contact us.
- You will be redirected to the Soracom Support Site, where you can submit a request by filling out the support request form.
Soracom Support Bot
Soracom has introduced the Soracom Support Bot, which leverages generative AI to provide quick and accurate responses to customer inquiries. Here are some key points about the Support Bot:- The bot uses Azure OpenAI Service to generate answers based on Soracom’s technical documentation.
- It is particularly useful for questions about technical specifications or usage.
- To use the Support Bot, select the appropriate category when submitting a request, and the bot will generate an initial response. For follow-up questions, Soracom’s support staff will take over.
Additional Guidelines for Support Requests
When creating a support request, it is important to:- Provide as much detail as possible, including symptoms of the issue, the time it occurred, and its impact on the production environment.
- Include relevant resource IDs such as SIM ID, Group ID, or VPG ID.
- If you have multiple issues, open a single support ticket for all of them.
- Be aware that if you reply using an email address not registered with your Soracom account, your reply may not be visible to support agents.
Scope of Support
Soracom’s support is focused on their products and services. If an issue falls outside their scope, such as with third-party software or non-Soracom services, they will guide you to the appropriate third-party support resources.AI-Driven Services
Soracom has introduced several AI-driven services to enhance IoT deployments:- Soracom Query: Allows users to execute SQL queries to extract valuable insights from IoT devices through business intelligence tools or the command-line interface.
- Soracom Relay: Utilizes existing cameras to enable real-time streaming and transmission of audio and video data, particularly useful for edge computing applications in computer vision and video analytics.
- Soracom Harvest Data Intelligence: Analyzes time series data, detects patterns, and identifies anomalies, enhancing Soracom’s existing serverless data storage and visualization capabilities.
- Soracom Flux: A low-code application builder that allows users to build AI-integrated IoT applications in real time by defining data flows between sensors, cameras, actuators, and cloud services. This is available in Public Beta with a free tier.
- Soracom Query Intelligence: Enables managers to query their IoT network data in natural language and receive immediate analysis in the form of descriptive text and data visualizations. This is currently available as a Technology Preview for select customers.
General Support Limitations
- The Soracom Support Bot cannot answer questions related to account-specific information, communication outages, or Limited Preview or Private Beta services. For these, users need to contact Soracom support directly.
Soracom - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Operational Convenience
Soracom’s IoT remote access, particularly through their service SORACOM Napter, offers significant operational convenience. It allows users to access and manage IoT devices remotely, eliminating the need for physical travel to the deployment site. This is especially beneficial for devices in hard-to-reach locations or spread across large areas, such as vineyards or multiple countries. Remote access enables real-time troubleshooting, firmware updates, and predictive maintenance, which can significantly reduce downtime and operational costs.Real-Time Monitoring
Remote access provided by Soracom enables real-time monitoring of IoT devices. This feature is crucial for ensuring that all devices are operating at maximum capacity. It helps in identifying and resolving issues promptly, which can save businesses thousands of dollars by preventing service disruptions and improving overall production efficiency.Ease of Use
Soracom’s remote access solutions are relatively easy to integrate into IoT projects. SORACOM Napter simplifies the process by eliminating the need for relay servers or installing agent software on individual devices. This makes it accessible to a wide range of users, not just developers or engineers, and streamlines the manufacturing process, allowing for faster and more cost-effective market entry.Secure Connectivity
Soracom prioritizes IoT security by keeping IoT traffic off the public internet through virtual peering, private subnets, and hardwire connections where necessary. Their services ensure secure remote connections using random IP addresses and ports, and support various protocols like SSH, RDP, VNC, HTTP, and HTTPS. This comprehensive security approach helps protect sensitive data and prevent external threats.Global Coverage and Scalability
Soracom offers cellular IoT connectivity with multi-carrier coverage, allowing devices to connect to the best available network globally. This includes coverage in 160 countries, making it ideal for large-scale IoT deployments. The pay-as-you-go pricing model and the ability to connect devices over various networks (cellular, WiFi, ethernet, or satellite) add to the flexibility and scalability of their services.Disadvantages
Security Risks
While Soracom’s remote access solutions offer many benefits, they also come with potential security risks. Using public IP addresses can make devices vulnerable to external attacks, such as brute-force port scans. However, Soracom has implemented measures like virtual peering and private subnets to mitigate these risks.Limited Functionality in Certain Plans
For travelers using Soracom’s eSIM services, there is a limitation in that these plans only offer internet data and do not support voice calls or SMS messages. This can be a significant drawback for users who need full telecommunications services during their travels.Dependency on Compatible Devices
Soracom’s eSIM plans require eSIM-compatible devices, such as SIM-free or unlocked iPhones and iPads. This can limit the usability of their services for users with incompatible devices.Conclusion
In summary, Soracom’s IoT and networking tools offer substantial benefits in terms of operational convenience, real-time monitoring, ease of use, and secure connectivity. However, users should be aware of the potential security risks and the limitations of certain service plans, particularly those related to eSIM functionality. Soracom - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of Soracom
Soracom, a division of KDDI, has integrated generative AI tools into its cellular IoT platform, introducing services like Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence. Here are some key unique features:Soracom Flux
This service allows users to build custom IoT applications using a low-code approach, integrating various data sources with generative AI engines. It enables users to define data flows and issue natural-language commands, making it accessible even for non-technical users.Soracom Query Intelligence
This feature leverages natural language processing to simplify IoT network management. Users can query network data and receive insights through descriptive text and data visualizations without needing SQL or data visualization skills.Soracom Harvest Data Intelligence
This service analyzes time series data, detects patterns, and identifies anomalies, enhancing Soracom’s existing data analysis capabilities.Security and Scalability
Soracom stands out for its strong focus on security and scalability. Its platform ensures that data transmitted between devices and the cloud is encrypted and protected from unauthorized access, making it a preferred choice for sensitive industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.Potential Alternatives
Arista Etherlink AI Platforms
Arista Networks offers AI platforms designed to provide optimal network performance for demanding AI workloads. While these platforms are more focused on network performance optimization rather than IoT management, they are a strong alternative for organizations needing high-performance networking solutions.Juniper Networks AI-Native Networking Platform
Juniper’s platform unifies campus, branch, and data center networking operations via a common AI engine. It offers significant benefits such as reduced networking trouble tickets, lower operational expenses, and faster incident resolution. This platform is more geared towards general network management but offers comprehensive AI-driven insights.Nile AI Services Platform
Nile’s platform automates network design, configuration, and management using AI. It includes features like AI-based network design, automated network deployment, and AI-powered network monitoring. This is a strong alternative for enterprises looking to reimagine their network infrastructures with integrated security and cloud-native service delivery.LogicMonitor, Auvik, and NinjaOne
These tools focus more on AI-driven network monitoring rather than IoT management. LogicMonitor, Auvik, and NinjaOne offer features such as automated anomaly detection, predictive analytics, and real-time monitoring. They are excellent alternatives for organizations needing advanced network monitoring capabilities.Competitive Landscape
Soracom competes with major players like Cisco, Vodafone, AT&T, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Microsoft Azure in the IoT connectivity market. Soracom’s competitive advantages include its scalable and flexible platform, strong security measures, and global reach, which make it a top choice for businesses looking to deploy and manage IoT solutions. In summary, Soracom’s unique integration of generative AI into its IoT platform, along with its focus on security and scalability, sets it apart in the market. However, alternatives like Arista, Juniper, Nile, LogicMonitor, Auvik, and NinjaOne offer different strengths and may be more suitable depending on the specific needs of an organization. Soracom - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Soracom
What are Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence?
Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence are two new services introduced by Soracom that integrate Generative AI (GenAI) into their cellular IoT platform. Soracom Flux is a low-code application builder that allows users, even those without technical expertise, to create custom IoT applications by defining data flows between various devices and GenAI engines like OpenAI, Google Gemini, Microsoft Azure AI, and Amazon Bedrock. This service simplifies the process of automating operations in industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, energy, and retail.
How does Soracom Flux simplify IoT application development?
Soracom Flux simplifies IoT application development by using a low-code approach, enabling users to build custom applications quickly without needing extensive technical skills. Users can define data flows and issue natural-language commands to automate tasks, such as alerting if a camera detects workers without adequate protective gear. This reduces the development time from months to minutes.
What is the purpose of Soracom Query Intelligence?
Soracom Query Intelligence is designed to simplify the management of large IoT deployments by enabling natural-language network data analysis. It leverages GenAI to allow managers to query their IoT network data in natural language and receive immediate analysis in the form of descriptive text and data visualizations. This service builds on the existing Soracom Query managed data warehouse, allowing complex data analyses without requiring SQL or data visualization skills.
How does Soracom Query Intelligence facilitate data analysis?
Soracom Query Intelligence facilitates data analysis by allowing users to query network data using natural language. For example, users can ask for a list of SIMs with a high frequency of connection/disconnection to identify unstable devices or request a map showing all SIMs currently connected to a specific carrier to manage a nationwide fleet of vehicles. This makes complex data analysis accessible to non-technical managers.
What are the key industries targeted by Soracom’s AI-powered tools?
Soracom’s AI-powered tools, such as Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence, are targeted at various industries including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, energy, retail, and security. These tools help automate operations and simplify IoT deployments in these sectors.
How does Soracom’s pricing model support IoT projects?
Soracom offers a flexible pricing model that includes pay-as-you-go, low volume, fixed usage, and pooled options, all without long-term commitments. This model allows users to scale up or down as project requirements change, making it particularly beneficial for early-stage projects and those scaling up. The pricing plans start as low as $1 per month, with data increments available to match different use cases.
What kind of connectivity does Soracom provide?
Soracom provides multi-carrier cellular data and SMS capability that works with over 240 carriers in over 135 countries. The service includes 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, and even Cat M1 networks where available. This global coverage and flexibility in network options make it suitable for a wide range of IoT deployments.
How does Soracom support IoT network management?
Soracom supports IoT network management through its cloud-based telecommunications core and the IoT Management Console. This console gives users full control over their IoT networks, including SIM life-cycle management, speed classes, event handlers, and powerful API controls. Additionally, tools like Soracom Query Intelligence enhance network data analysis and management.
Can non-technical users manage Soracom’s IoT services?
Yes, Soracom’s services are designed to be accessible to non-technical users. Soracom Flux allows non-technical users to build custom IoT applications using a low-code approach, and Soracom Query Intelligence enables non-technical managers to perform complex data analyses using natural language queries.
What kind of cloud integrations does Soracom offer?
Soracom offers direct connections to leading public clouds like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. This integration can save months of development time and significant costs by providing secure cloud integrations that would otherwise require extensive coding.
How does Soracom ensure security and control for IoT deployments?
Soracom ensures security and control by providing a built-in IoT Management Console that gives users full control over their IoT networks. Features include serverless dashboards, agentless device access, remote provisioning, and multiple private networking options. These tools help users manage and secure their connected devices efficiently.
Soracom - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Soracom in the Networking Tools AI-Driven Product Category
Soracom, a division of KDDI, has made significant strides in integrating AI into its IoT management and connectivity solutions, making it a compelling option in the networking tools AI-driven product category.
Key Benefits and Features
- AI-Powered Tools: Soracom has introduced several AI-driven services, including Soracom Flux, Soracom Query Intelligence, and Soracom Harvest Data Intelligence. These tools leverage generative AI, natural language processing, and machine learning to simplify and expedite IoT deployments. For instance, Soracom Flux allows users to build custom IoT applications using a low-code approach, while Soracom Query Intelligence enables managers to query network data and receive insights through descriptive text and data visualizations.
- Industry-Specific Solutions: Soracom focuses on targeting niche segments within the IoT market, such as healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. This approach allows them to develop industry-specific features and functionalities that cater to the unique demands of each sector, thereby driving customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Customer-Centric Approach: Soracom adopts a customer-centric sales model, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer needs, building strong relationships, and offering customized solutions. This approach helps in retaining customers and attracting new ones by providing excellent customer service and ongoing support.
- Global Partner Ecosystem: Soracom has an extensive partner ecosystem, including over 800 members and more than 100 certified partners, which helps IoT innovators accelerate their time to market with access to complementary solutions and services.
Who Would Benefit Most
Soracom’s solutions are particularly beneficial for:
- Non-Technical Users: The low-code approach and natural language interfaces of tools like Soracom Flux and Soracom Query Intelligence make it easier for non-technical users to manage and analyze IoT data without requiring extensive technical skills.
- Industry-Specific Businesses: Companies in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and retail can benefit from Soracom’s industry-specific solutions that address unique pain points and opportunities within each sector.
- Startups and SMBs: With its affordable and reliable connectivity solutions, Soracom is well-suited for startups and small to medium-sized businesses looking to accelerate their IoT deployments and scale efficiently.
Overall Recommendation
Soracom is a strong contender in the AI-driven IoT management and connectivity space. Its integration of generative AI and machine learning into its platform enhances the ease and efficiency of IoT deployments. The customer-centric approach and focus on niche segments ensure that users receive solutions that are highly relevant to their specific needs.
For businesses looking to leverage AI in their IoT operations, especially those in targeted industries or with limited technical expertise, Soracom offers a compelling suite of tools and services. Its global partner ecosystem and commitment to making AI accessible for IoT deployments further solidify its position as a reliable and innovative provider in this field. Therefore, Soracom is highly recommended for those seeking to streamline and enhance their IoT management capabilities.