Next generation M2M cellular networks: Challenges and practical considerations

In this article we present the major challenges of future machine-to-machine (M2M) cellular networks such as spectrum scarcity, and support for a large number of low-power, lowcost devices. As an integral part of the future Internet-of-Things (IoT), the true vision of M2M communications cannot be reached with conventional solutions that are typically cost inefficient. The cognitive radio concept has emerged to address spectrum under-utilization and scarcity. The heterogeneous network model is another alternative to relax the number of covered users. To this extent, we present a complete fundamental understanding and the engineering details of cognitive radios, the heterogeneous network model, and power and cost challenges in the context of future M2M cellular networks.