Phy Wireless and Surfact Partner on Edge-Based Cellular Positioning for Cold-Chain Tracking

Phy Wireless, a provider of edge-based cellular positioning technology for massive IoT and next-generation 5G SA and 6G wireless networks, has announced a collaboration with Surfact, a developer of tracking solutions for perishable-goods logistics. The two companies aim to improve tracking frequency, extend battery life, and increase visibility across cold-chain and food-transportation operations.

Why GPS falls short in enclosed logistics environments

GPS-based tracking systems can consume considerable power and perform inconsistently inside shipping containers, warehouses, and other logistics settings where satellite signals are blocked or degraded. Cellular signals, by contrast, are designed to provide coverage inside buildings, containers, and other hard-to-reach locations. Phy Wireless's edge-based cellular positioning technology uses existing network signals to calculate location directly on the device, reducing power consumption while supporting more frequent location updates and longer battery life.

What Surfact brings to the partnership

Surfact develops tracking devices that monitor the location, condition, and integrity of temperature-sensitive goods throughout the supply chain. The company was founded by logistics professionals with experience managing food supply chains, including military and humanitarian logistics operations, and is expanding its tracking platform across Europe and North America to help customers improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and increase supply-chain visibility.

For Surfact, a key opportunity in the collaboration is the ability to increase location-update frequency without compromising battery life. More frequent updates can improve shipment visibility, accelerate exception management, and provide operational information throughout the supply chain while reducing maintenance requirements associated with battery replacement.

Per Magne Helseth, CEO and founder of Surfact, stated that customers need better visibility into the movement and condition of perishable goods without increasing operational complexity. He described Phy Wireless's edge-based positioning technology as an innovative approach that will help Surfact deliver more frequent location updates, extend battery life, and improve the overall economics of large-scale logistics tracking.

Demonstrating value for large connected fleets

Tom Horgan, CEO of Phy Wireless, noted that Surfact is addressing some of the most demanding challenges in cold-chain logistics. He explained that, unlike traditional GPS and cloud-based location systems, Phy Wireless enables devices to calculate location directly at the edge, reducing power consumption while supporting more frequent location updates, longer battery life, and lower operating costs. He added that together the companies are demonstrating how edge-based positioning can deliver measurable value for logistics operators managing large fleets of connected assets.

The collaboration will also support Surfact's efforts to expand its logistics platform into North America, where the company is exploring deployment opportunities for cold-chain and perishable-goods tracking applications.

Contact information

PHY Wireless – www.phywireless.com

Surfact – www.surfact.com