Sigfox, the low power IoT network, has partnered with Microsoft over integration with the Azure IoT Hub for more intelligent analytics capabilities.

Regarded by many as the great enabler for IoT, data analytics would appear to hold the key to driving intelligence into machine to machine connectivity and network automation. Sigfox claimed the integration will be available to all customers and provide a secure means of controlling IoT devices. It reckons the collaboration will allow its customers to fully benefit from Microsoft Azure’s data analytics capabilities.

Sigfox, which recently announced an expansive deal with telco conglomerate Altice, says Azure’s ability to collect, analyse and visualise large quantities of data across a variety of devices and applications. Stuart Lodge, EVP of sales and partners at Sigfox, says the partnership is a key milestone for operators looking to adopt the platform.

“Integration with Microsoft Azure IoT Hub in Sigfox’s Cloud is a key step in the evolution of the IoT, providing customers with a great alternative to investing large amounts of resources to develop and manage data storage and management themselves,” he said. “We are thrilled to have Microsoft as part of our global ecosystem as it will empower our customers’ asset management tool efficiency and lower their costs.”

Microsoft’s corporate VP of developer platform, Steve Guggenheimer, says the speed with which the IoT is growing means the partnership was a very necessary one.

“The rapid proliferation of connected devices can raise challenges in bringing together disparate data sources, handling the scale of the aggregate stream, and ensuring a variety of platforms and protocols work together harmoniously,” he said. “Our collaboration with Sigfox enables Microsoft Azure IoT customers to more easily integrate devices connected to the Sigfox network in their existing solutions.