Qorvo is expanding its IoT portfolio with two RF front-end (RFFE) modules that support the NB-IoT and LTE-M cellular standards.

According to Qorvo, the new RFFEs are the industry’s smallest integrated dual-band modules, and both operate with the lowest minimum operating voltage, enabling extended battery life.

Qorvo says leading manufacturers of IoT devices are designing products using its modules in a range of new devices, including wearables. Qorvo has partnered with Nordic Semiconductor to develop cellular IoT solutions.

“We are very impressed by the features and performance of Qorvo’s new modules. With their high integration level, extensive band coverage and support for both NB-IoT and LTE-M, they enable truly global products — while providing industry-leading power consumption and robust design margins.” — Svein-Egil Nielsen, CTO at Nordic Semiconductor

Ericsson’s Mobility report estimates the number of NB-IoT and LTE-M connections tripled during 2019 and will be more than half of the almost 5 billion cellular IoT connections by 2025. The GSMA reports operators have launched more than 120 NB-IoT and LTE-M networks.

“The NB-IoT and LTE-M standards usher in a new era of always-on global connectivity for a massive number of devices, including applications that weren’t previously feasible. Minimizing RF solution size and power consumption are critical for this new wave of battery-powered devices, many of which will be expected to provide years of unattended and maintenance-free operation.” — Eric Creviston, president of Qorvo’s Mobile Products

Qorvo is displaying its IoT portfolio at CES®2020 (#CES2020) in Las Vegas, January 7–10.