Vodacom has taken a significant step to further expand its Internet of Things (IoT) offering in South Africa by partnering with global technology solution provider PTC, a recognised leader in Industrial IoT, augmented reality and connected solutions.
The collaboration will enable Vodacom to implement a local version of the ThingWorx® IoT platform from PTC in order to develop new IoT applications and solutions. ThingWorx® contains a comprehensive set of integrated IoT-specific development tools and capabilities, offering some of the industry’s deepest functionality.
Vodacom has identified the expansion of its IoT propositions as one of the key strategic growth areas of the business and continues to aggressively drive investment in this. The launch of ThingWorx® in South Africa will allow Vodacom to service customers across the continent as it creates and develops secure IoT solutions across key verticals, including retail, health, utilities, manufacturing, logistics and for the consumer.
Deon Liebenberg, Managing Executive for Vodacom IoT says “The ThingWorx® IoT platform allows Vodacom to create a framework for direct market engagement to develop and deliver IoT services to key verticals. A well-established partner model will enable IoT developers across South Africa to have access to ThingWorx® to support their development and entrepreneurial ambitions to connect things to the internet and the world.
Vodacom is the first African operator to form a relationship with PTC and we are committed to being pioneers of the Internet of Things. This collaboration will enable us to fast track the adoption of the Internet of Everything across the continent as we are now able to rapidly develop and deploy new IoT applications and services. We continue to enhance our IoT capabilities and eco-system, to bring meaningful business-related and operational value to the South African economy.”
Catherine Kniker, Chief Revenue Officer, Platform Business, PTC says: “Vodacom recognised the value that ThingWorx® could bring to its IoT business as a leading IoT platform with capabilities that enable fast, simple and secure development of IoT applications. We look forward to collaborating with Vodacom as it works to deliver new IoT solutions and services to the South African market.”
This collaboration with Vodacom is an expansion of the relationship between PTC and Vodafone, Vodacom’s parent company, which is focused on the development of new IoT applications and solutions.
