Revolutionizing IoT with Microvisor-Based Firmware Management

In the realm of IoT product development, factors like reliable connectivity, trustworthy security, and cost predictability are paramount, especially within the industrial sector. Achieving reliable connectivity alongside robust security demands seamless interaction between devices and networks. On the device side, maintaining secure connectivity components like cellular modems and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth coprocessors, updated with patches, is crucial. Equally, the network should guarantee the uptime demanded by connected hardware.

For two decades, KORE has been a dependable network provider. With the recent acquisition of Twilio IoT, a fresh paradigm emerges. We present a pioneering approach encompassing the device and its firmware layer: the microvisor-based method and our new KORE Microvisor IoT device builder platform. 

KORE Microvisor relieves firmware engineers of the intricate task of designing, building, and managing their own remote firmware management systems, empowering them to focus on their applications rather than getting bogged down in the foundational infrastructure.

Necessity of a New IoT Platform

While many appreciate platform-centric IoT development for managed security, OTA (over-the-air) updates, and holistic device lifecycle management, it has its drawbacks. Prescriptive platforms can restrict developers' language, OS, and tool choices, which can be acceptable for some users, but seasoned professionals seek more flexibility. Arnal Dayaratna from IDC emphasizes openness, echoing our call for a fresh approach — introducing the "microvisor" architecture.

Decoding the Microvisor Concept

A microvisor is an IoT connectivity architecture that employs a hypervisor for microcontrollers, enabling reliable and secure remote firmware operations on Internet-connected devices. KORE Microvisor pioneers this concept at scale, offering 24/7 connectivity, managed hardware-to-cloud security, unbrickable OTA firmware updates, and secure remote debugging.

With Microvisor, flexibility reigns, allowing you to choose any programming language, OS, CI/CD environment, toolchain, and cloud integration. This agility is vital in the era of Edge AI and ML Ops, where rapid progress is crucial.

Technically, a microvisor leverages Arm TrustZone™ in microcontrollers, dividing them into secure zones at boot time. This grants security without sacrificing flexibility. The microvisor zone handles connectivity tasks. 

The Power of Microvisor in Business

KORE Microvisor delivers value across IoT project phases:

1. Development: Microvisor expedites time-to-market and reduces development hours. It enables field testing and problem resolution, preempting connectivity issues.
2. Deployment: Decoupling firmware and hardware accelerates time-to-value. KORE's management reduces costs and enhances device security.
3. Technical Support: Remote debugging cuts issue resolution time, leading to decreased support costs and increased customer trust.

"Connectivity is a must for our energy-as-a-service technology solutions, but not a key differentiator in itself. KORE Microvisor will give us managed connectivity with the real-time processing capability that we need for our "virtual power plant" products." 

- Kiwi Powered 

“KORE brings the necessary expertise to implement security for connected MCUs, and the ability to support any software/firmware development approach an embedded engineer might already have selected ensures a speedy Go-To-Market and makes them the perfect partner for us.” 

- ST Microelectronics 

KORE Microvisor's public beta phase welcomes forward-looking companies to join the Microvisor Beta Program. With the provided development board, one can harness the transformative potential of Microvisor. Sign up today and get hands-on with Microvisor, and stay tuned for in-depth dives into its capabilities.