Navigating IoT Connectivity in North America: Key Challenges and Solutions

Deploying IoT devices across North America brings unique connectivity challenges. From network sunsets to device certification, this comprehensive guide breaks down what European IoT companies need to know before expanding westward.

Understanding the North American IoT Landscape

Deploying IoT cellular assets in North America requires specialised knowledge and strategic planning. At OV, we recently hosted a webinar featuring our IoT connectivity experts discussing the critical considerations for companies looking to expand their connected device footprint across Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

As a global IoT MNO with over 130 years of telecommunications experience, we have the need-to-know insights to help multiple businesses navigate these waters. This guide summarises key topics from our webinar on overcoming common challenges when launching IoT deployments in North America.

Network Sunset Realities: The Disappearance of 2G and 3G

For years, 2G was the default technology for many tracking devices and IoT applications, but the landscape has dramatically changed. North American carriers have been rapidly sunsetting their legacy networks:

• United States: Major carriers like AT&T have already completed 2G network shutdowns, with 3G following closely behind

• Canada: 2G has been largely decommissioned across the country's major networks

• Mexico: Following similar patterns of network evolution

For IoT deployments that previously relied on these technologies, this presents a significant challenge. Low-power tracking applications, fleet management systems, and industrial monitoring devices now require migration to newer technologies like LTE-M, NB-IoT, or Cat-1 BIS.

Connectivity Options for North American Deployments

When planning your IoT connectivity strategy for North America, several factors should influence your approach:

Multi-Network vs. Single Network

A critical decision for any IoT deployment in North America is whether to opt for single-carrier or multi-network connectivity solutions. While single-carrier arrangements might seem simpler, the unique geography and network distribution across the continent often make multi-network solutions more reliable.

Multi-network IoT SIMs provide redundancy through automatic carrier switching when a primary network becomes unavailable. This is particularly valuable for:

• Mobile applications that travel between regions with varying coverage

• Critical infrastructure devices that cannot afford downtime

• Assets in remote locations where network coverage may be inconsistent

eSIM Considerations

The evolution of eSIM technology has created new possibilities for IoT deployments. Our connectivity experts highlighted key considerations:

• Current status: While traditional IoT eSIM standards promised easy operator switching, real-world implementations have proven more challenging than anticipated

• SGP.32 standard: The latest IoT eSIM standard (SGP.32) addresses many earlier limitations but is still in early deployment stages as of 2025

• Use case evaluation: Whether eSIM makes sense for your deployment depends on your specific needs and future flexibility requirements

As our CTO noted during the webinar: "The latest eSIM standard does promise to be good... but it's still at the test stage." For many applications, a standard multi-network SIM card may still be the most practical option.

Device Certification Requirements

Perhaps one of the most frequently overlooked aspects of North American IoT deployment is device certification. US carriers in particular maintain strict policies about which devices can connect to their networks.

While the process has improved significantly in recent years, with about 99% of manufactured devices now pre-approved, failing to verify certification can derail your deployment. US operators are particularly sensitive about network access and require proper commercial agreements before allowing devices to connect at scale.

As our CTO also explained, "The operators are very sensitive about who's coming onto the networks and are they committed to be there, which is why we work hard to make sure the agreements are in place."

VoLTE for Voice-Enabled IoT Applications

With 2G and 3G networks disappearing, IoT applications requiring voice capabilities must migrate to Voice over LTE (VoLTE). This affects numerous critical use cases including:

• Emergency call systems in elevators

• In-vehicle communication systems

• Healthcare monitoring devices with voice capabilities

• Personal safety and security applications

As our CTO said, "If you are running any IoT use case with voice, you need VoLTE. If you don't have a VoLTE service, you haven't got an IoT business for voice."

Strategic Considerations for North American IoT Deployment

Network Infrastructure Differences

North America's cellular infrastructure differs from Europe's in several key aspects:

• Coverage patterns prioritise population centres over complete geographic coverage

• Network technologies and bands vary from European standards

• Regulatory requirements and certification processes are more stringent

• Data pricing models often follow different structures

Private APNs and Security

For enterprise IoT deployments, private APNs (Access Point Names) provide enhanced security and management capabilities. They enable:

• Segregated traffic from public networks

• Enhanced data security for sensitive applications

• Customised routing and network optimisation

• Better control over device connectivity

IoT Connectivity Management

Efficient device management across North America requires robust connectivity management platforms. Look for solutions that provide:

• Real-time visibility into device status

• Network performance analytics

• Data usage monitoring and alerts

• Remote diagnostics capabilities

• Simplified device provisioning

Pure IoT: Connectivity Without Complexity

At OV, we believe IoT connectivity should enhance possibilities without adding unnecessary complexity. As a global IoT MNO, we provide direct operator relationships that deliver:

1. Global reach without global complexity: Simplified access to networks across North America through a single platform

2. Network control without network noise: Direct access to carrier-grade infrastructure without intermediaries

3. Commercial clarity without constraints: Transparent pricing and flexible commercial models

4. Innovation without intimidation: Technical expertise to support your specific application needs

Preparing for Successful North American IoT Deployment

Based on our experience helping European companies expand their IoT footprint into North America, we recommend you:

1. Evaluate device compatibility: Ensure your hardware is certified for North American networks

2. Consider connectivity redundancy: Determine if multi-network SIMs are necessary for your use case

3. Plan for sunset transitions: If deploying existing European solutions, verify they don't rely on sunset technologies

4. Address regulatory requirements: Understand certification and compliance needs early

5. Secure your connectivity: Implement appropriate security measures for cross-border data transmission

Deploying IoT devices across North America represents both significant opportunity and distinct challenges. With proper planning and the right connectivity partner, European IoT companies can successfully navigate this complex landscape.

As connectivity specialists with over a century of telecommunications heritage, OV provides the direct operator relationships, technical expertise, and global infrastructure to make your North American IoT deployment seamless and successful.

To learn more about deploying IoT solutions in North America, watch our full webinar recording or speak to our team to explore our Pure IoT connectivity solutions.