Overview

– SWARM Satellite Network Updates: De-orbit plans and upcoming replacements to improve satellite connectivity.
– Enhanced Terrestrial Network Availability: Free upgrade to satellite connectivity for select users if required.
– Improved Coverage Comparison: How Apiary Master coverage differs significantly from standard cellular networks.

Enhanced Remote Satellite Data Options for Apiary Master, Hive Scales, and Hive Monitors

Reliable data connectivity is critical for beekeepers using Hive Monitoring to access consistent updates from the Apiary Master, Hive Scales, and Hive Monitors. For beekeepers operating in remote or rural areas, obtaining reliable connectivity has long been a challenge. Over the past year, changes to our satellite provider and advancements in IoT and Direct-to-Cell technology have paved the way for more effective solutions in hive monitoring and management.

SpaceX’s groundbreaking developments, including the recent successful launch of Starship 5, mark significant progress in satellite technology. The capability to launch more satellites in a single deployment will allow us to retrieve Apiary Master, Hive Scales, and Hive Monitor data more efficiently, benefiting beekeepers who rely on accurate and timely data.

Adapting to SWARM Satellite Network Changes

Our remote data communications have historically relied on the SWARM satellite network, from its early trials in 2019 to its acquisition by SpaceX in 2021. The SWARM small-satellite network has faced challenges in the rapidly evolving small-satellite industry, leading to SpaceX’s decision to de-orbit the SWARM network by the end of 2024.

This rapid timeline accelerates our transition to SpaceX’s Direct-to-Cell (DTC) satellite network, which promises greater reliability and coverage for Hive Scales, Apiary Master, and Hive Monitors. As one of SWARM’s partners, we’re actively working on solutions to ensure minimal disruption. Our flexible hardware design allows us to adapt, and we’re already capable of connecting to the new SpaceX DTC network. Commercial terms with SpaceX and local Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are being finalized to guarantee continuity and service longevity.

How We’re Supporting Customers During the Transition

If you currently use Apiary Master and want to upgrade to the new DTC satellite capability for your Hive Scales and Hive Monitors, we’re offering an affordable upgrade package covering parts, labor, and shipping. Customers purchasing new Apiary Masters will qualify for a FREE upgrade to satellite connectivity when DTC becomes commercially available.

In the meantime, we’ve partnered with MNOs to enhance our terrestrial network options, providing an excellent alternative to satellite in areas with expanding cellular coverage. This option enables more frequent data updates and facilitates over-the-air programming and firmware upgrades for Hive Scales, Apiary Master, and Hive Monitors.

Superior Apiary Coverage vs. Standard Cell Phone Coverage

A common concern with using cellular networks is coverage reliability. It’s worth noting that Apiary Master coverage is far superior to what’s available on a standard cell phone. While cell phones use LTE (4G/5G) networks for voice and data, our Apiary Master devices use a specialized cellular technology optimized for low data transfers, granting them broader coverage for Hive Scales and Hive Monitors.

For instance, in Australia, our data coverage outperforms 4G/5G cell coverage, and similar coverage improvements are available in New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. Our agreements with MNOs allow us to roam across networks, dynamically selecting the best signal and technology available, which also enables real-time two-way connectivity for seamless updates on Apiary Master, Hive Scales, and Hive Monitors.