Konekt raises $1.3M to connect remote Internet-of-things devices via the cellular network

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Instead of connecting Internet-of-things devices to the Internet via WiFi or Bluetooth, Konekt believes there are some devices that should be linked via a cellular network. The startup has just raised $1.3 million to test that idea in the market. 

 

Konekt is selling a tool kit best for Internet-of-things devices not in range of in-home WiFi or cellular Bluetooth devices, for example, which might monitor farming, assets like cars or an electrical grid. 

 

The tool kit includes a SIM card to receive a cellular signal, access to a private cloud that directs and stores all device data and a web-based portal to manage devices. Having a plug-and-play SIM card could be useful for Internet-of-Things manufacturers who previously had to buy and configure their own, especially smaller firms without a lot of cash or engineering labor. Konekt is betting that its tool kit can help speed up the explosion of Internet-of-things devices by making it easier to add cellular connectivity.

“In the past, the tools wouldn’t be available to those who are just starting out,” said CEO Ben Forgan. “So if you’re a small organization it’s not very feasible.”

 

Because smaller firms can add cellular connectivity that’s meant more opportunity for companies to build consumer focused Internet-of-things devices. 

 

“Traditionally you would see business building these sorts of applications, but I think that is starting to blur,” said Forgan. “We are seeing small-medium companies building with cellular in ways that are not traditionally enterprise.”

 

For example, the company has seen applications for monitoring the PH in fish tanks, tracking pets and connecting cars.

 

Long term Forgan said they envision working with WiFi and Bluetooth too. Konekt’s private cloud application can handle data transmitted via WiFi and Bluetooth as well, though the company is unsure if they will handle manufacturing WiFi or Bluetooth hardware. 

 

In the future, Forgan said he sees the Internet continuing to be delivered via a variety of routes. Better and cheaper cellular Internet connectivity likely won’t outpace the quality of Internet delivered via fiber optics and transmitted via WiFi, but cellular Internet may play a bigger role as backup connectivity.

 

Konekt will be using its new capital infusion to further develop its product and make key hires in engineering, sales and marketing. The company is looking to ramp up sales and marketing activities in the United States and in Europe.

 

Konekt’s $1.3 million in funding came from NextView Ventures, Mucker Capital, the Tyler Willis Syndicate, Chris Muhr of Groupon and, Raj Ruparell of Groupon.