AT&T has launched a new product called the LTE-M button, a programmable button that businesses can deploy to allow customers to place orders or send alerts. Sounds awfully a lot like the Amazon’s Dash button but they differ in their own ways. The AT&T LTE-M button connects to AT&T’s LTE-M network, eliminating the need for a WiFi or Bluetooth connection to work. In company’s initial press release for the product way back in 2017, AT&T noted that the button will be powered by Amazon Web Services.
The Amazon’s Dash button is aimed at consumers, while AT&T’s LTE-M button was made businesses/developers who want to create their own button for their own products/services. Since the device is designed more for businesses use than for homes and individuals, AT&T says that each button will work for up to 1,500 clicks or for three years.
AT&T’s LTE-M button didn’t just come out of the wood-works as the company announced its existence back in November 2017. The buttons are available now, the first 5,000 pieces will be sold for $30, after which the price goes up by $5. Its LTE-M connection is free for three years or for 1,500 clicks, whichever comes first.
These are the few of the possibilities that ATT&T thinks that their LTE-M button might come in handy:
- Instant customer feedback at hotel conference rooms, airports and sports venues.
- Mobile suppliers on the go can place orders from wherever they are.
- Products delivered to your front door at the touch of a button.
- Get automatic alerts from buttons attached to connected trash cans or oil storage containers when it’s time for a pickup.
- The button can be a “virtual concierge” for seniors to check in with caregivers on health status and call for medication – all in the comfort of their own home.
