BTRC to launch dedicated SIMs for IoT, M2M devices

Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) will introduce a separate SIM numbering series for Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) devices to manage the country’s rapidly growing network of smart gadgets.

Currently, IoT and M2M devices share mobile numbers with human users, but the rising demand for smart meters, industrial sensors, vehicle trackers and wearable devices is expected to overwhelm the existing system.

Under the new plan, the 06 series will be reserved for IoT SIMs, with 061 for Banglalink, 062 for Teletalk, 063 for Robi and 064 for Grameenphone. Each operator will receive numbers in blocks of five million, enabling up to one billion IoT connections nationwide.

Unlike regular SIMs, IoT SIMs do not support voice calls and allow remote management of devices. BTRC officials also plan to simplify registration, adopt faster number recycling and request the National Board of Revenue to exempt these SIMs from the Tk 300 SIM tax, reducing deployment costs for industries and start-ups.

“With the growth of smart infrastructure and upcoming 5G networks, a dedicated IoT numbering system is essential,” said Md Emdad ul Bari, BTRC chairman.

The move aligns Bangladesh with global best practices, ensuring secure, scalable and efficient machine-to-machine communication as the country embraces large-scale digital transformation.

AM