US software company Microsoft has formally announced that it will open a new Internet of Things (IoT) lab in Munich, Germany. Industrial companies in Europe are bolstering efforts to modernize production with sensors and software - and Microsoft has recognized a gap in the market to grab a portion of the spending.

US technology firm Net-Objex, an expert in Internet of Things and Blockchain has showcased a 'smart parking' payment solution described as a world first by using the IOTA decentralized network and cryptocurrency.

IBM has formally announced the launch of its Innovation and Industry Client Center in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Inaugurated under the patronage of the Abu Dhabi Government, the center aims to fast track the digital transformation of both public and private organizations through advanced technologies in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud, blockchain, security, analytics, Internet of Things and quantum computing.

Virgin Media O2 Business (VMO2) and the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR) have launched a 5G private network trial at Overbury Farms, located on the border between Worcestershire and Gloucestershire in England.

Chinese multinational telecommunications vendor ZTE has seen its innovative NB-IoT application recognized globally by being awarded the prestigious GLOMO award at Mobile World Congress 2018. It was ZTE's 'smart parking' solution which won the Best Mobile Service for the Connected Life GLOMO 2018 at the industry trade show currently being hosted in Barcelona.