Vodafone Portugal kicks off with consumer IoT services

Vodafone Portugal has launched a set of Internet of Things services for residential customers, including applications covering mobility, security and location, stealing a march on rival multi-play service providers in the country.

Vodafone said it would follow up the initial launch with a series of smart home applications before the end of the year.

The new offering, V by Vodafone, introduces management of connected objects through a single app, with an initial focus on three areas.

V-Auto provides equipment that can be connected to the OBD plug that is standard in post-2003 car models in the EU, enabling a range of safety features such as automatic contacting of drivers by the emergency services in the event of an accident. V-Auto is available for €79.90 with a €6 monthly charge.

V-Cam is an HD camera that connects to the operator’s IoT network and includes automatic  motion detectors and a night view mode, as well as the ability to store videos in the cloud. Applications include home security for second homes. The initial cost is €379.90 with a €6 monthly charge.

Other applications include V-Pet, to enable users to locate pets through GPS, and V-Bag, to locate suitcases and other forms of baggage.

Vodafone has created V-SIM, an IoT SIM card, and a V by Vodafone mobile app to manage IoT applications.

“The Internet of Things is already transforming the way companies operate. Now it’s time for consumers to take advantage of this technology. V by Vodafone simplifies the use of a vast list of IoT devices, helping to make the everyday tasks of all Portuguese users more intelligent,” said Emanuel Sousa, head for the residential business unit of Vodafone Portugal.