Caribbean IoT Cellular Connectivity by Country

Aruba

 

Networks: Setar and Digicel operate 2G, 3G, and 4G networks on Aruba. 5G is not yet widely available.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands (European GSM) and an additional 1900 MHz PCS band . Quad-band GSM devices will work on Aruba’s 2G network.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA): 850 MHz (Band 5, Setar) and 2100 MHz (Band 1) coverage. Setar’s 3G runs on 850 MHz and 2100 MHz, while Digicel uses 900 MHz (Band 8) and 2100 MHz for 3G/HSPA+ . Devices must support both 850 and 2100 MHz to ensure 3G connectivity across operators.

• 4G (LTE): 1800 MHz (Band 3) is the primary LTE band used. Digicel launched LTE on Band 3 (1800 MHz) and Band 1 (2100 MHz) , while Setar’s LTE also uses 1800 MHz . An IoT device needs Band 3 support for 4G data in Aruba.

• 5G: Not commercially available as of 2025. Aruba has not rolled out 5G, so IoT devices rely on 4G/LTE or lower.

 

Compatibility notes: Aruba’s mix of European and US legacy bands means IoT hardware from either region can connect. A device with EU-band 2G/3G will work on Digicel (900/2100), and one with US-band 3G will work on Setar (850). LTE Band 3 support is crucial for 4G. No 2G or 3G shutdowns have been announced, so GSM and UMTS remain available for low-power IoT fallback.

 

Antigua and Barbuda

 

Networks: Flow (Cable & Wireless) and Digicel are the two main operators. A local network (APUA’s “iMobile”) exists but offers only 2G voice and no data . 5G is not deployed.

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz (Flow) and 900 MHz (Digicel) . Flow uses North American GSM at 850 MHz, while Digicel uses the 900 MHz band. 2G service from APUA (iMobile) also operates around 850 MHz but is voice-only . Quad-band GSM devices will have coverage.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA): 850 MHz (Flow) and 2100 MHz (Digicel) . Flow’s 3G runs on 850 MHz (Band 5), matching AT&T-type devices. Digicel uses Band 1 (2100 MHz) for 3G data. An IoT modem must support 850 and 2100 to use both networks’ 3G.

• 4G (LTE): Flow: 1700 MHz AWS (Band 4). Digicel: 700 MHz (Band 17) . Flow launched LTE on AWS spectrum (Band 4), while Digicel’s LTE uses the 700 MHz band common in the Americas . A compatible IoT unit should include Band 4 and Band 17 for full 4G coverage.

• 5G: Not available. Both carriers provide up to LTE Advanced service but have not rolled out 5G in Antigua as of 2025.

 

Compatibility notes: Ensure 3G fallback covers both 850 and 2100 MHz to roam between Flow and Digicel . For LTE, a device designed for the U.S. (Band 17, Band 4) will operate on both networks’ 4G. Older IoT devices reliant on 2G will work on Digicel’s GSM 900 or Flow’s 850 MHz, as 2G remains active via those bands. APUA’s network can be disregarded for IoT data, since it’s 2G-only with no GPRS/EDGE.

 

Bahamas

 

Networks: BTC (Bahamas Telecommunications Company) and Aliv (NewCo) are the two operators . 5G is not yet deployed – networks max out at LTE.

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz and 1900 MHz (BTC only) . BTC operates GSM/EDGE on the 850 and 1900 bands. Aliv, launched in 2016, has no 2G network at all . IoT devices relying on 2G must use a BTC SIM, as Aliv is data-only (3G/4G).

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (both operators) and 1900 MHz (Aliv) . BTC’s 3G runs on 850 MHz (Band 5) nationwide . Aliv built 3G on 850 and 1900 MHz (Bands 5 and 2) from the start . A device needs Band 5 support for BTC, and Bands 5/2 for full Aliv coverage.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz bands are used. BTC launched LTE on Band 17 (700 MHz) covering 99% of the islands by 2017. Aliv uses Band 13 (700 MHz) for LTE . Both bands 13 and 17 are in the U.S. 700 MHz range. No other LTE bands (e.g. AWS or 1900) are in use yet.

• 5G: Not available. The Bahamas has not introduced 5G service as of early 2025.

 

Compatibility notes: A North American–spec IoT device will operate smoothly on both networks’ LTE (Band 13/17) . If the device needs GSM fallback, only BTC’s 2G (850/1900) can provide it, since Aliv is 3G/4G-only. For 3G connectivity, support for 850 MHz is essential, and 1900 MHz is needed to leverage Aliv’s entire 3G footprint . Both carriers plan to maintain nationwide LTE, making 4G the primary choice for IoT data in the Bahamas.

 

Barbados

 

Networks: Flow (Cable & Wireless) and Digicel share the market . No 5G in Barbados yet (regulators focus on improving LTE) .

• 2G (GSM): Flow: 1900 MHz (PCS band). Digicel: 900 MHz + 1800 MHz . Flow’s legacy GSM ran on the 1900 MHz band (North American PCS), whereas Digicel deployed GSM on European bands (900/1800) . Quad-band GSM devices are required for complete 2G coverage. (2G services remain live for basic connectivity.)

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): Flow: 850 MHz and 1900 MHz. Digicel: 2100 MHz (Band 1) . Flow’s 3G network uses Band 5 (850) and Band 2 (1900) – aligning with U.S. UMTS phones . Digicel’s 3G is exclusively on Band 1 (2100 MHz) . An IoT modem must support both sets (850/1900 and 2100) to roam between Flow and Digicel 3G.

• 4G (LTE): Flow: 850 MHz (Band 5) and 1900 MHz (Band 2). Digicel: 700 MHz (Band 17) and 1900 MHz (Band 2) . Digicel launched LTE in Bridgetown on 700 MHz and 1900 MHz , and Flow followed on 1900 MHz and 850 MHz (re-farmed) . Both networks therefore use LTE Band 2 (PCS 1900) plus a low-band (700 for Digicel, 850 for Flow). Devices require Band 2 support and ideally Band 5 and Band 17 to cover both operators’ 4G .

• 5G: None. The government has no immediate plans for 5G in Barbados, focusing instead on expanding LTE coverage .

 

Compatibility notes: Barbados is a mix of “European” Digicel frequencies vs. “American” Flow frequencies . A multi-band IoT unit from Europe (which typically has 900/1800 2G and 2100 3G) will work on Digicel, but needs 850/1900 3G/LTE to use Flow. Conversely, a U.S.-market device will work on Flow out of the box and must have 2100 MHz 3G and Band 17 LTE to fully use Digicel . It’s recommended that mobility IoT hardware for Barbados be quad-band GSM, dual-band UMTS (850/2100), and include LTE Bands 2, 5, 17, to ensure seamless operation.

 

Bermuda

 

Networks: One Communications (formerly CellOne) and Digicel Bermuda . No 5G service as of 2025; focus is on full LTE coverage.

• 2G (GSM): 1900 MHz (PCS band) for both carriers . Bermuda’s GSM runs only on 1900 MHz. (Both networks shut down their 850 MHz GSM to repurpose spectrum.) Any GSM-capable IoT device must support the 1900 MHz band.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Band 5) for both carriers . One and Digicel deployed island-wide 3G on 850 MHz, offering HSPA+ speeds . Ensure the IoT modem includes Band 5 UMTS. (No 2100 MHz 3G is used in Bermuda.)

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz and 850 MHz bands. In 2017 both operators rolled out LTE on newly assigned 700 MHz spectrum (Bands 13 and 17) . One Comm also activated LTE on its existing 850 MHz band (Band 5) . Digicel’s LTE launched on 700 MHz (Band 17) in 2017 . Devices need support for at least one of the 700 MHz bands (13/17) to get 4G; Band 5 LTE is also beneficial for One’s network .

• 5G: Not available. Bermuda has not yet allocated 5G spectrum; LTE is the fastest technology in use.

 

Compatibility notes: Bermuda’s cellular system aligns with North American frequencies. IoT devices from the U.S. (850 MHz 3G, 1900 MHz GSM, LTE Band 17) will readily connect . European-region devices must be checked for 850 MHz 3G capability and should support 1900 MHz GSM to fall back to 2G. LTE roaming requires 700 MHz band compatibility (the device should have Band 17 and Band 13, as the exact block used can vary by carrier) . No 2G or 3G shutdowns are in effect; legacy support remains for voice/SMS and low-data IoT usage.

 

Bonaire (Caribbean Netherlands)

 

Networks: Digicel and Flow (formerly UTS/Chippie) operate a unified network across Curaçao and Bonaire . No 5G – LTE is the fastest service. (Bonaire’s info is combined with Curaçao below, as they share the same network frequencies.)

 

British Virgin Islands (BVI)

 

Networks: Digicel, Flow, and CCT Wireless serve ~33,000 residents. No 5G yet in BVI.

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz and 1900 MHz are used . BVI networks provided GSM over both bands (Digicel’s 2G was on 1900 MHz , Flow/CCT also used 850 MHz). Today 2G is diminishing but still available for basic IoT fallback in these bands.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz and 1900 MHz (island-wide) . All three carriers ran 3G on Band 5 (850) and Band 2 (1900). For example, Digicel’s 3G is on 1900 MHz (PCS) , and Flow’s on 850. A device should support both 850 and 1900 for 3G connectivity across networks.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz, 1700 MHz (AWS), and 1900 MHz are licensed . LTE rolled out starting 2017 on 700 MHz primarily (Bands 12, 13, or 17) . Digicel BVI uses Band 13 (700 MHz) and Band 4 (AWS 1700) for LTE . Flow and CCT also have 700 MHz allocations and some AWS/PCS spectrum. In practice, initial 4G coverage is on 700 MHz (better range) with capacity on AWS/1900. IoT devices require at least one of the 700 MHz bands (for Digicel, Band 13) and should include AWS Band 4 to use all carriers’ 4G .

• 5G: None. BVI has not launched 5G; LTE is the peak service available.

 

Compatibility notes: The BVI uses mostly North American bands. A U.S.-designed IoT device (with 850/1900 3G and 700/AWS LTE) will be largely compatible . Note that Digicel’s 2G was on 1900 MHz only , so 850 MHz GSM support is less critical. However, LTE support on 700 MHz is crucial (Digicel uses Band 13, Flow/CCT may use Band 12/17) along with AWS Band 4 for full speed. Legacy 2G/3G remain active as backup; some IoT operators choose to use 3G for its wider coverage, which in BVI means Band 5 (850) coverage from Flow and Band 2 (1900) from Digicel .

 

Cayman Islands

 

Networks: Flow and Digicel each have ~50% share . No 5G – LTE is the fastest network.

• 2G (GSM): Flow: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz. Digicel: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz . Flow’s GSM network uses US bands, while Digicel’s uses European GSM bands. Both 2G networks are operational. An IoT device must be quad-band GSM to connect on either (850/1900 for Flow, 900/1800 for Digicel).

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): Flow: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz. Digicel: 850 MHz only . Flow provides 3G on Band 5 and Band 2 (850/1900). Digicel Cayman also uses 850 MHz (Band 5) for 3G coverage . (Digicel’s 3G on 850 is a notable exception to its usual 2100 MHz in other islands.) Thus, Band 5 support is mandatory for 3G connectivity, and Band 2 is needed to maximize Flow’s 3G.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. Flow’s LTE covers 100% of Cayman on 700 MHz Band 17 . Digicel’s LTE uses 700 MHz Band 13 and 1800 MHz Band 3 . In summary, Band 17 and Band 13 (700 MHz) plus Band 3 (1800 MHz) are used. Both carriers also refarmed some spectrum for LTE-Advanced (Flow has LTE-A with carrier aggregation) – but primary bands remain 700 and 1800 . IoT devices should support at least one of the 700 MHz FDD bands (13/17) and Band 3 for full 4G coverage.

• 5G: None. The Cayman Islands have not introduced 5G services as of 2025.

 

Compatibility notes: Cayman networks combine both regional standards. A device from Europe must have 850 MHz 3G and 700 MHz LTE to roam on Flow . A U.S. device needs 1800 MHz LTE (Band 3) to use Digicel’s additional capacity , and should ideally support 900/1800 2G if Flow’s signal is weak inland. Both 2G and 3G remain available (no shutdowns yet), providing fallbacks. For LTE-M or NB-IoT: these operators run standard LTE only, so Cat-1 or higher modules with the above band support are recommended.

 

Cuba

 

Network: Cubacel (ETECSA), the state carrier, is the sole mobile network. No private operators. Cuba has modernized from 2G up to 4G; 5G is not yet deployed.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz (Band 8) . Cuba’s 2G GSM network operates on 900 MHz across the country . (No 850/1900 GSM in use.) IoT devices must support GSM 900 to function in Cuba – most European and quad-band devices do.

• 3G (UMTS): 900 MHz (Band 8) nationwide . Cubacel rolled out UMTS on 900 MHz (same band as 2G) in 2017 . There is limited use of 2100 MHz (Band 1) in some areas for extra capacity , but primary 3G coverage is Band 8. Ensure devices have UMTS 900MHz support.

• 4G (LTE): 1800 MHz (Band 3) main LTE band, plus new 700 MHz (Band 28) and 2100 MHz (Band 1) layers added in 2023 . Cuba launched 4G on Band 3 (20 MHz channel) in 2019 . Recently, Cubacel activated LTE on Band 28 (700 MHz) and Band 1 (2100 MHz), and even Band 8 (900 MHz) LTE for rural coverage . For broad compatibility, an IoT device should support Band 3 primarily, and Band 28 or Band 1 if targeting full Cuban coverage in the future .

• 5G: None. Cuba is conducting trials but no 5G network is open to consumers as of 2025.

 

Compatibility notes: All Cuban networks use 900 MHz for 2G/3G, so devices from Europe or Asia (where 900 is standard) connect easily . Many American-market devices lack 900 MHz 3G, which can be an issue – a U.S. IoT unit must at least support GSM 900 for basic service, since it won’t find 850/1900 signals in Cuba. LTE Band 3 (1800 MHz FDD) is crucial for high-speed data – ensure the IoT modem includes Band 3, as well as Band 28 (700 MHz APT) if hardware allows, because Cuba’s expanding 4G on that band . Roaming in Cuba can be restricted; many mobility operators use local SIMs – so compatibility with Cuba’s bands ensures the IoT device can register on Cubacel’s network when using a Cuban SIM.

 

Curaçao (and

Bonaire

)

 

Networks: Digicel and Flow (formerly UTS “Chippie”) share networks across Curaçao and Bonaire . No 5G yet. Both operators offer 2G, 3G, 4G.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz and 1800 MHz (both Digicel and Flow) . The GSM networks use European dual-band GSM. Any IoT device must support 900/1800 GSM to connect on 2G in Curaçao/Bonaire. (No GSM 850 here.)

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 2100 MHz (Band 1) on both networks, with Flow also using 850 MHz (Band 5) . Digicel’s 3G is solely Band 1 (2100) . Flow’s “Chippie” network operates UMTS on 2100 and 850 MHz , which improves coverage. IoT devices should include Band 1 support (mandatory) and Band 5 if possible to take advantage of Flow’s 3G coverage footprint.

• 4G (LTE): 1800 MHz (Band 3) on both Digicel and Flow . Flow launched LTE in 2015 on Band 3 (20 MHz channel) , and Digicel activated LTE on Band 3 in 2017 . Band 3 is the primary LTE band in Curaçao/Bonaire. No other FDD bands (700/1900) have been deployed yet. An IoT modem must have LTE Band 3 to get 4G service . (Both carriers marketed HSPA+ as “4G” until true LTE arrived on band 3.)

• 5G: None. Spectrum for 5G (e.g. 3.5 GHz) was auctioned to Digicel/Flow, but networks were not live as of 2025 .

 

Compatibility notes: The frequencies in Curaçao align mostly with ITU Region 1 norms. European IoT devices will operate readily (GSM 900/1800, UMTS 2100, LTE 1800 are supported) . For North American devices, lack of GSM 850 or UMTS 850 support can be problematic on Flow’s network, although Flow also runs 2100 MHz 3G that such devices often have. The key for 4G is Band 3 support. Both carriers allow free roaming across Curaçao and Bonaire, and Digicel extends it to Aruba as well – so a single SIM covers the “ABC” islands if the device supports the needed bands.

 

Dominica

 

Networks: Flow and Digicel (roughly equal market share) . No 5G – LTE available since 2018.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz (Digicel) and 1900 MHz (Flow) . Dominica’s GSM is dual-band: Digicel uses GSM 900, while Flow’s old GSM ran on 1900 MHz . (Flow has been refarming 1900 for LTE, so 2G is mainly on Digicel’s side now.) IoT devices with GSM 900 will have coverage via Digicel; GSM 1900 capability is needed if any Flow 2G remains or for roaming from other islands.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Flow) and 2100 MHz (Digicel) . Flow operates 3G on Band 5 (850 MHz) in Dominica . Digicel’s 3G/HSPA+ is on Band 1 (2100 MHz) . Thus, dual-band UMTS support (850/2100) is required for comprehensive 3G coverage. Each operator had advertised its HSPA+ as “4G” before LTE launch.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz (Band 13/17) on both networks . Both Flow and Digicel launched LTE on 700 MHz in 2017–2018 . Digicel uses Band 13 (Upper 700 MHz) or Band 17 for LTE, and Flow likewise uses 700 MHz (exact block varies) . No other bands (e.g. AWS or 1900) are reported for LTE in Dominica yet. IoT devices must have a U.S. 700 MHz band to use 4G here (Band 13 is especially important for Digicel ).

• 5G: None. Dominica has not started 5G services and will rely on LTE for coming years.

 

Compatibility notes: Dominica’s pattern is Flow (North America bands) vs Digicel (European bands) in the legacy network . This means a European IoT unit (GSM 900/UMTS 2100) will connect well on Digicel, but needs 850 MHz 3G to also use Flow’s coverage . Conversely, a U.S. device (850 MHz 3G) will get service on Flow and must support 2100 MHz to access Digicel’s 3G. Fortunately, LTE simplifies compatibility: both carriers use the same 700 MHz band class for 4G . Ensure your device supports LTE Band 13 (or 17) to enjoy island-wide coverage. 2G is less important now, as both networks emphasize 3G and 4G – but 2G 900MHz capability can provide a fallback via Digicel if needed.

 

Dominican Republic

 

Networks: Three national operators – Claro, Altice, Viva – plus a 4G-only ISP (Wind) . 5G active on two carriers (Claro & Altice launched 5G NSA in mid-band).

• 2G (GSM): Claro: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz. Altice: 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 1900 MHz in different areas. Viva: 1900 MHz only . GSM is still present but being phased out. Claro ran GSM on both 850 and 1900 (so quad-band devices work) . Altice (which merged Orange and Tricom) had a mix – primarily GSM 1900, with some 900/1800 legacy from Orange . Viva used only 1900 MHz GSM. IoT devices with 850/900/1800/1900 support will handle any remaining 2G signals in the DR.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): Claro: 850 MHz (Band 5). Altice: 900 MHz (Band 8). Viva: 1900 MHz (Band 2) . Each carrier uses a different primary 3G band. Claro’s 3G is on 850 MHz nationwide . Altice (Orange) refarmed GSM 900 to UMTS 900 for its 3G . Viva deployed 3G on 1900. All three shut down CDMA networks by 2020, focusing solely on UMTS/LTE . An IoT device intended for the DR should support Band 5, Band 8, and Band 2 UMTS to roam across all networks. (At minimum, Band 5 for Claro and Band 8 for Altice will cover the largest subscriber bases.)

• 4G (LTE): Claro: AWS 1700 MHz (Band 4). Altice: 1800 MHz (Band 3). Viva: AWS 1700 MHz (Band 4). Additionally, 700 MHz (Band 28) is now licensed but not widely deployed yet . LTE launched in 2014; Claro’s network runs on a 20 MHz channel of Band 4 (great for North American devices) . Altice uses Band 3 (1800 MHz) for LTE, aligning with European devices . Viva also uses Band 4 (AWS). Some operators have supplemental bands: e.g. Claro later added Band 28 (700 MHz APT) for 5G-ready spectrum, and Altice/Claro won 3.5 GHz for 5G . For LTE IoT compatibility, ensure support for Band 4 and Band 3 at least. Band 2 (1900) is also used in certain cities by Altice (per some reports) – but the main bands are as above.

• 5G (NR): 3500 MHz (n78) on Claro and Altice . Both launched 5G NSA in late 2021 using n78 mid-band (3.5 GHz), starting in Santo Domingo . Claro also has limited mmWave trials. For now, 5G is focused on enhanced mobile broadband; IoT devices typically stick to LTE.

 

Compatibility notes: The Dominican Republic presents a wide variety of bands – it is crucial to match the device to the target operator. For example, a U.S.-focused IoT device with 850 MHz 3G and AWS/700 LTE will work well on Claro (3G 850, LTE AWS) and Viva (LTE AWS, 3G likely roam to Claro). An EU device with 900 MHz 3G and 1800 MHz LTE is naturally suited for Altice’s network . Multi-band support is highly recommended: a single IoT device model should ideally have 850/900/1900 3G and both Band 3 and Band 4 LTE to move between carriers if needed. Note that 2G is diminishing – Viva and Altice have refarmed much of it – so plan for 3G or LTE as the primary bearer for IoT data. 5G NR in DR (n78) is mostly for consumer broadband; most IoT hardware (like e-scooters) will stick to the LTE networks which are nationwide and robust .

 

Grenada

 

Networks: Flow and Digicel (Digicel is market leader ~57% share) . LTE rolled out in 2018, but no 5G yet (Grenada is still improving 4G) .

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz (Digicel) and 1800 MHz (Digicel); Flow also had 900/1800 MHz GSM . In practice, both operators provided 2G on 900/1800 European bands . (Flow did not use 850 GSM here.) 2G is still active in spots, but coverage is now limited as 3G/4G took over . IoT devices should have 900/1800 GSM for any fallback needs.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Flow) and 1900 MHz (Digicel) . Uniquely, Digicel Grenada’s 3G runs on PCS 1900 MHz (Band 2) , not 2100 as in most islands. Flow’s 3G is on 850 MHz (Band 5) . This means a North America–centric IoT device (with 850/1900 UMTS) is perfectly suited for Grenada’s 3G networks, whereas a device expecting 2100 MHz 3G would not find it. Band 5 and Band 2 support are essential for Grenada.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz (Band 17) launched by Digicel in 2018 ; Flow also gained LTE, likely on 700 MHz as well by 2019. Digicel’s LTE covers ~94% population on Band 17 (700 MHz) . Flow has been slower, and may refarm 1900 MHz for LTE (as it filed a lawsuit during Digicel’s LTE launch ). By 2023, both offer LTE, predominantly on 700 MHz FDD . Some Band 2 (1900 MHz) LTE exists (Flow was expected to use it for capacity) . IoT devices for Grenada should definitely support Band 17 (700 MHz) for Digicel, and ideally Band 2 LTE for Flow’s network.

• 5G: None. Grenada has no 5G plans yet; regulators are focusing on getting island-wide LTE after delays .

 

Compatibility notes: Grenada’s cellular setup is somewhat aligned to U.S. frequencies: 850/1900 3G and 700 LTE . This bodes well for IoT hardware from North America. A device from Europe lacking 1900 MHz UMTS would not be able to use Digicel’s “3G” (which Grenada Digicel calls 4G) , so adding Band 2 support is important. Conversely, any standard quad-band GSM unit covers 2G if needed (900/1800 present). Since LTE is relatively new, many IoT deployments might still use HSPA+ on these islands (Digicel’s HSPA+ network is widespread and was marketed as 4G). However, going forward, LTE Band 17 is critical because Digicel’s new data plans require an LTE SIM/device . In summary, ensure Band 5 (850) and Band 2 (1900) for 3G, and Band 17 (700) for LTE to maintain compatibility with Grenada’s networks.

 

Guadeloupe & Martinique (French West Indies)

 

Networks: Orange Caraïbe, SFR Caraïbe, and Digicel (with partner Free Caraïbe). These French territories use the same network infrastructure and frequency plans, governed by ARCEP . 5G active (2022) on 3.5 GHz.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz & 1800 MHz (Orange, SFR, Digicel) . All operators ran GSM on the standard European bands. 2G is gradually sunset (Orange/SFR have begun refarming 1800 for LTE), but GSM is still present for voice/low-data. An IoT device needs GSM 900/1800 to talk to any French FWI network.

• 3G (UMTS): 2100 MHz (Band 1) universal . French carriers deployed 3G only on 2100 MHz in the islands, identical to Metropolitan France. (Digicel piggybacks on these standards after acquiring small local operators.) Ensure UMTS Band 1 support. Note: Some additional 900 MHz UMTS was introduced post-2016 when 900 MHz spectrum was auctioned for 4G – but primary 3G remains 2100 MHz.

• 4G (LTE): 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1), 2600 MHz (Band 7), and 900 MHz (Band 8) in some areas . In 2016, France allocated LTE in bands 20, 3, 7, 8, 1 to these operators . Orange Caraïbe and SFR launched LTE on 800 MHz and 1800 MHz initially (20 MHz on Band 3, etc.) . Digicel/Free also use similar bands. For an IoT device, Band 3 (1800) and Band 20 (800) are most important for coverage (Band 20 for rural range, Band 3 for capacity) . Band 7 (2600) is used in city centers for high capacity – less critical for IoT unless large data transfers. Band 8 (900) LTE is being deployed to enhance indoor coverage as 2G traffic declines. In short: a comprehensive LTE module covering Bands 3, 7, 20 (and optionally 1, 8) will work on any FWI network.

• 5G (NR): 3500 MHz (n78). In 2022, Orange, SFR, Digicel (via Free) each obtained 50 MHz in the 3.5 GHz band for 5G . 5G NSA/SA on n78 has started in main cities (e.g. Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre). There is no low-band 5G yet – DSS on 700 wasn’t deployed as of 2025. Most IoT devices (scooters, etc.) do not use 5G here yet and stick to LTE, given power and coverage considerations.

 

Compatibility notes: The French islands use EU harmonized bands – great for European IoT devices. A device from the EU will seamlessly roam on Orange/SFR (GSM 900/1800, UMTS 2100, LTE 800/1800/2600) . U.S.-oriented devices need to be checked: many lack Band 20 and Band 7 LTE, which are vital for these networks. However, they might have Band 3 and Band 8 which cover some LTE and possibly 2G. It’s advisable to source modules that include all common European bands when planning deployment in Guadeloupe/Martinique. Note that because these are part of the EU, roaming rules allow French SIMs to roam to the French side of St. Martin and other EU territories without issue . For a mobility operator, using Orange or SFR M2M SIMs means the device must support the above frequencies. Digicel’s presence is smaller here; they piggyback on Free’s infrastructure, so the same band requirements apply. In summary: Quad-band GSM, UMTS 2100, and LTE Bands 3/7/20 are a must for broad compatibility in the French Caribbean.

 

Haiti

 

Networks: Digicel Haiti (majority market share) and Natcom (joint venture Viettel-state) . LTE is available in cities; 5G not available.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz (Digicel & Natcom) . Both providers run GSM on 900 MHz across Haiti. (Digicel launched with GSM 900; Natcom also uses 900 for 2G.) GSM 850/1900 are not used in Haiti. IoT devices need the 900 MHz band for 2G connectivity.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 2100 MHz (Band 1) on both networks . Haiti’s 3G rollout (branded “4G” by Digicel in marketing) operates on 2100 MHz nationwide . There is no UMTS 850/900 in Haiti – both Digicel and Natcom deployed 3G at Band 1 only. So any IoT device must support UMTS 2100 MHz to get data service (2G data speeds are very slow).

• 4G (LTE): 1700/2100 MHz (AWS Band 4) in major areas . Natcom was the first to launch LTE on AWS Band 4 (around 2016) under a limited concession in parts of Port-au-Prince . Digicel, after delays, also launched LTE on Band 4 and later on 700 MHz. In 2020–2021, the regulator granted 700 MHz spectrum; Digicel is reportedly using Band 28 (700 MHz APT) and Band 17 in some areas . Primary LTE for IoT is Band 4 (AWS) – necessary for any high-speed connection in Haiti . If possible, include Band 28 support, as new 4G on 700 MHz is expanding (it improves rural coverage).

• 5G: None. Haiti has far more pressing infrastructure needs; 5G deployment is not on the immediate roadmap.

 

Compatibility notes: Haiti’s network mix is unusual in that it’s mostly 900/2100-centric. IoT hardware from Europe or Asia (which commonly supports GSM 900 and UMTS 2100) will work well on Haitian networks . Many American devices, however, lack UMTS 2100, which is a problem because 3G 850/1900 aren’t available – such a device would drop to 2G only (slow GPRS) under Digicel/Natcom. Therefore, for Haiti, verify UMTS Band 1 capability. On LTE, AWS Band 4 is mandatory – luckily most U.S. and international LTE modules include Band 4, since it’s used widely in the Americas. The addition of 700 MHz LTE (Natcom/Digicel have been testing) means Band 28 or Band 17 could enhance coverage, but devices without those bands can still fall back to AWS where available. Bottom line: ensure 900 MHz GSM and 2100 MHz 3G are supported for Haiti, along with LTE Band 4 for any IoT solution to be future-proof in this market . (Digicel’s network modernization, as of 2023, showed ~65% population LTE coverage and growing , so LTE-capable IoT devices will have a clear advantage in Haiti.)

 

Jamaica

 

Networks: Digicel and Flow (formerly LIME/C&W) – no other mobile operators after a third (Caricel) had its 4G license revoked . No 5G yet; both focus on LTE expansion.

• 2G (GSM): Digicel: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz. Flow: 850 MHz (only) . Digicel Jamaica started with GSM on the E-GSM 900 and DCS 1800 bands (European configuration) . Flow (then Cable & Wireless) uses GSM on 850 MHz exclusively and has already shut its 1900 MHz GSM to reuse it . This means a quad-band GSM device is needed; notably, Flow has indicated plans to shut down 2G soon once LTE coverage is ubiquitous . (As of 2021, timelines were not set, but IoT projects should not rely on GSM on Flow long-term.)

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): Digicel: 850 MHz (Band 5). Flow: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz (Bands 5 and 2) . Digicel refarmed the former Claro network to use 850 MHz for 3G, providing island-wide HSPA+ on Band 5 . Flow’s 3G was on 850 and 1900, but it turned off 1900 MHz UMTS in favor of LTE (maintaining only a small portion for capacity) . Currently, both operators’ 3G coverage is mainly on 850 MHz. An IoT device needs Band 5 support for data in Jamaica. (Band 2 UMTS is largely gone with Flow’s upgrade, and Digicel never used 1900 for 3G.)

• 4G (LTE): Digicel: 700 MHz (Band 17) and AWS 1700 MHz (Band 4), aggregated . Flow: AWS 1700 MHz (Band 4) and 1900 MHz (Band 2), with some 700 MHz trial in specific areas. Digicel launched LTE in 2016 on Band 17 (AT&T’s 700 MHz) and expanded to Band 4 (20 MHz) with carrier aggregation . Flow started LTE on Band 4 in 2016 and later added Band 2 LTE for capacity . Both networks now provide LTE-A with two-carrier aggregation (Digicel 17+4, Flow 4+2) for greater speeds . For IoT, Band 4 LTE is crucial (both carriers) and Band 17 for Digicel coverage. Supporting Band 2 will allow use of Flow’s supplemental LTE. (Flow has limited low-band LTE; their main 4G is AWS, which has weaker building penetration ).

• 5G: None. Jamaica has not allocated 5G spectrum yet; improvements are focused on LTE quality .

 

Compatibility notes: Jamaica’s networks largely use North American frequencies, except for Digicel’s 2G which is European GSM . A U.S.-made IoT device (850 MHz GSM/UMTS, 1900 UMTS, LTE Bands 4/12) will work on Flow’s 2G/3G and have LTE on Flow (Band 4) and partial on Digicel (Band 17). However, it might lack GSM 900/1800 for Digicel’s 2G – not a big concern if 3G/4G are available. A European device will have GSM 900/1800 (good for Digicel 2G) and UMTS 2100 (not used in JA) – it must have UMTS 850 to get 3G data on either network . For LTE, fortunately Band 3 or 7 (common in EU) are not used in JA; but Band 4 and 17 are needed. Many global LTE modems include Band 4; Band 17 is often included in tri-band LTE modules. The IoT hardware should also be aware of imminent changes: Flow has hinted at 2G shutdown and has already minimized 3G on 1900 . Thus, for longevity, rely on 4G where possible. Band 4 LTE support is mandatory for any IoT deployment in Jamaica, as both carriers utilize it heavily . Including Band 17 ensures Digicel’s widespread LTE coverage (65% population in 2018, growing) . In summary, an IoT device for JA should support: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 (for voice/SMS fallback), UMTS 850, and LTE Bands 4, 17 (and 2 if possible) for the best compatibility.

 

Martinique

 

(See Guadeloupe above – Martinique uses the identical Orange/SFR/Digicel networks with the same bands .)

 

Montserrat

 

Networks: Flow (C&W) and Digicel. Montserrat is tiny (~5,000 people) and was a Flow monopoly until Digicel launched in 2015 . LTE is available (since 2017–2018), no 5G.

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz (Flow) and possibly 900 MHz (Digicel) . Flow operated GSM at 850 MHz as the sole provider historically . Digicel may have introduced GSM 900 when it started service, but its focus was on 3G. In any case, 2G coverage is very limited now; Digicel Montserrat markets only 2G/3G/4G and Flow has shifted to 3G/4G. IoT devices should not rely on GSM in Montserrat, but having 850/900 MHz GSM support covers any remaining 2G signal.

• 3G (UMTS): 850 MHz (likely both operators) . Flow uses 850 MHz for 3G as in other Eastern Caribbean islands . Digicel Montserrat also uses 850 MHz for UMTS (reports indicate Digicel did not deploy 2100 here) . As the find snippet suggests, Montserrat’s 3G is “most likely 850 MHz” across the board . So Band 5 UMTS is key for connectivity. (3G is the baseline for data – Flow even calls its HSPA+ “4G” since LTE came late .)

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz (Band 13/17) via both Flow and Digicel . Digicel launched Montserrat’s first LTE in late 2017 , and Flow followed in 2018 . They both use low-band 700 MHz spectrum for coverage (matching nearby islands). Specific: Digicel likely uses Band 17 (as elsewhere) , Flow perhaps Band 13. No other bands were mentioned. IoT devices need one of these 700 MHz bands enabled to use 4G on Montserrat.

• 5G: None. Montserrat will not see 5G in the near future due to its size and the fact that even LTE is relatively new.

 

Compatibility notes: Montserrat’s tiny network mirrors its neighbors. It’s safest to treat Band 5 (850 MHz) as the primary band for both 3G and possibly 2G here . That simplifies compatibility: a North American IoT device with 850 MHz GSM/UMTS will work fine on Montserrat. European devices missing 850 MHz could have issues – since Digicel typically would use 2100 MHz 3G elsewhere but didn’t here, a Euro device (2100-only UMTS) might end up with no 3G at all. Thus, ensure Band 5 UMTS in any device used. For LTE, Montserrat aligns with the common Caribbean 700 MHz plan, so having Band 17 (and Band 13 if possible) covers it . Band 3 or Band 2 LTE are not used (island is too small to need multi-band LTE). In summary, as long as the IoT unit supports 3G 850 and LTE 700, it will stay connected in Montserrat. Both carriers maintain 3G as a backup (Flow even still labels 3G as “4G” for marketing ), which is important due to Montserrat’s challenging terrain and still-developing LTE grid.

 

Puerto Rico

 

Networks: U.S. networks operate in PR – mainly Liberty (formerly AT&T), T-Mobile, and Claro PR (América Móvil). 5G available: T-Mobile and Liberty have deployed sub-6 GHz 5G across PR (and some mmWave in urban zones).

• 2G/3G: Largely shut down. AT&T/Liberty turned off 2G GSM in 2017 and 3G UMTS in 2022. T-Mobile also shut 3G (2022) and plans 2G shutdown by 2023-24. Claro has also retired most 2G/3G. IoT devices should not rely on 2G or 3G in Puerto Rico going forward – the networks are now LTE/5G-only for data . (Legacy 850 MHz and 1900 MHz channels that were 3G now carry LTE or 5G.)

• 4G (LTE): Extensive multi-band coverage. Key LTE bands in PR include Band 2 (1900 MHz PCS), Band 4/66 (1700 MHz AWS-1/3), Band 5 (850 MHz CLR), Band 12/17 (700 MHz), and T-Mobile’s Band 71 (600 MHz) . Liberty (AT&T) uses Bands 17, 5, 4 for LTE (and recently Band 14 for FirstNet) . Claro uses Band 17 (700 MHz) and Band 2, and has some Band 4/66. T-Mobile uses Band 4, Band 66, Band 71 heavily . Essentially, an IoT device needs to be a true LTE multi-band unit: to have good coverage, it should support Bands 2, 4, 5, 12/17 at minimum . This ensures it can attach to any carrier’s LTE in PR. Band 71 (600 MHz) is desirable for T-Mobile, as that covers rural areas. Band 13 (Verizon’s 700 MHz) isn’t used except possibly by Claro (which might have 700 C-block inherited). Since Verizon doesn’t operate directly in PR (they roam on Claro), focus on the bands used by Liberty, T-Mo, Claro.

• 5G (NR): T-Mobile: 600 MHz (n71) nationwide and 2.5 GHz (n41) in cities, plus mmWave in San Juan . Liberty: 850 MHz (n5 DSS) and just starting C-band (n77) in 2023 . Claro: 3.5 GHz (n78) and mmWave (n261) in limited areas . For IoT devices, 5G is usually not required; if a device does have 5G, note that T-Mobile’s low-band 5G n71 gives wide coverage (good for mobile IoT), whereas Liberty’s 5G is sparse. Most IoT deployments in PR will be fine on 4G LTE, which is ubiquitous.

 

Compatibility notes: Puerto Rico effectively mirrors the mainland U.S. cellular environment . A device that works on AT&T or T-Mobile in the States will work in PR. Specifically, IoT modems should have the full set of North American LTE bands (2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 14, 66, 71). For instance, a scooter tracker with Bands 2/4/12/13/17/66 will connect to Liberty or Claro LTE easily (using 700, 850, 1900 as available). Including Band 71 is recommended to leverage T-Mobile’s extended range 5G/LTE which blankets rural parts of PR . Since 3G is gone, devices must support Voice over LTE if voice/SMS is needed (for alarms, etc.), otherwise they will be data-only. NB-IoT and LTE-M are available on AT&T/Liberty’s network (Band 5 LTE-M, for example) for low-power IoT – an option to consider for long battery life. In summary, treat Puerto Rico as a part of the U.S. network footprint: LTE is mandatory, and the device should be compatible with AT&T/T-Mobile frequency portfolios for full island coverage.

 

Saba & Sint Eustatius (Caribbean Netherlands)

 

Networks: These small Dutch islands are served by Flow (Chippie) and Telcell extensions from St. Maarten . Digicel does not operate here. No 5G.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz & 1800 MHz (Telcell and Flow Chippie) . The Dutch-side carrier Telcell provides GSM on 900 MHz, and Flow’s Chippie (operating under UTS license) also uses 900/1800 for 2G . GSM coverage is island-wide given the small size. IoT devices need GSM 900 (and ideally 1800) to use any remaining 2G signals. (Telcell has mentioned possibly shutting 2G after hurricane repairs, but as of the last update it was operational) .

• 3G (UMTS): 2100 MHz (Band 1) for both networks . Telcell offers HSPA+ on 2100 MHz, and Flow Chippie as well (it shares Core with St. Maarten). There may also be limited 850 MHz 3G from Chippie if it mirrors Curaçao’s config, but primary is 2100. Assume UMTS Band 1 is needed for 3G connectivity in Saba/Statia.

• 4G (LTE): 1800 MHz (Band 3) across both islands . Both Telcell and Flow launched LTE around 2017 in the region on Band 3 (the same frequency used in St. Maarten) . LTE covers the main towns – given the small area, a single band suffices. IoT devices must support Band 3 LTE for 4G service. (No other bands like 700/AWS are used locally, aside from roaming from USVI which some phones might pick up inadvertently.)

• 5G: None. These islands rely on LTE from the St. Maarten providers; 5G hasn’t been introduced due to scale.

 

Compatibility notes: Saba and Statia’s connectivity essentially extends from St. Maarten’s Dutch networks . An IoT device compatible with European GSM/UMTS/LTE bands will work (900/1800 GSM, 2100 UMTS, 1800 LTE) . Notably, Telcell and Flow allow free roaming for their customers across St. Maarten, Saba, Statia (the “Chippieland” concept) . This means an IoT SIM from St. Maarten works seamlessly on these two small islands. Since bandwidth is limited, ensure the device can drop to 3G if needed (Band 1) – coverage can be spotty in valleys, where sometimes only HSPA might be reachable from a single cell site. In practice, supporting LTE Band 3 and UMTS Band 1 is the critical requirement. 2G is largely a backup here; Telcell even hinted at turning it off after Hurricane Irma, but it was likely kept for fallbacks . For long-term projects, plan on using 4G as primary. Also avoid confusion with neighboring networks: sometimes a device might see a French-side or USVI signal – lock the SIM to the home network to prevent roaming to unintended carriers, as those could use different bands (and incur roaming costs). In summary, a robust IoT device for Saba/Statia should mirror a European profile (the same as for St. Maarten – see below).

 

Saint Barthélemy

 

Networks: As a French overseas collectivity, St. Barth has Orange Caraïbe, SFR Caraïbe, and Dauphin Telecom operating, with Digicel/Free possibly as an MVNO. No 5G yet (expected after 2025).

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz & 1800 MHz (same French frequencies) . GSM coverage exists but is being reduced. Devices should have 900/1800 for basic GSM if needed (e.g., SMS alarms).

• 3G (UMTS): 2100 MHz (Band 1) standard. St. Barth uses the same 3G channels as mainland France – only Band 1. Ensure UMTS 2100 support. (Like other French isles, Orange/SFR also provide free roaming on the Dutch side of nearby St. Martin via Telcell, but that’s more relevant for tourists) .

• 4G (LTE): 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2600 MHz (Band 7). In the 2016 award, St. Barth’s providers got similar 4G spectrum to Guadeloupe . Orange and SFR have LTE on 800 and 1800 covering the island (2600 in dense spots like Gustavia). IoT devices should support Band 3 and Band 20 for best coverage. (Dauphin Telecom, the local company, also uses these bands and focuses on LTE for home internet).

• 5G: None. St. Barth had 3.5 GHz spectrum allocated alongside other territories, but deployment has not begun. LTE is the top service for now.

 

Compatibility notes: For practical purposes, treat St. Barths like mainland France in frequency needs. A European IoT device will have no trouble (and a roaming EU SIM sees it as domestic EU). If using a local SIM (Orange/SFR/Dauphin), ensure your hardware supports LTE Band 3 and Band 20 above all – those bands cover most of the island’s area. Band 7 can provide extra bandwidth if the device ever needs higher throughput. American-designed devices often lack Band 20; deploying those could result in poor coverage because 800 MHz is crucial for range. Thus, verify Band 20 is present. Additionally, Orange/SFR shut down 2G in some parts of FWI as 4G took over – but as of early 2025 GSM still exists for fallback. Plan for LTE/3G primarily. Interoperability: St. Barth is part of the “Chippieland” roaming agreement too – Chippie (Flow) customers from St. Maarten can roam there without surcharge . However, since Digicel isn’t directly operational, sticking to Orange or SFR networks is typical. In short: quad-band GSM, UMTS 2100, LTE 800/1800 will ensure reliable connectivity on St. Barthélemy.

 

Saint Kitts and Nevis

 

Networks: Flow and Digicel (Chippie attempted to enter but failed) . LTE launched in 2017–2018; no 5G yet.

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz (Flow) and 900/1800 MHz (Digicel) . Flow St. Kitts uses 850 MHz GSM (standard C&W setup) . Digicel runs GSM on 900 MHz (with 1800 as secondary) . Both marketed 2G only for basic voice as 3G arrived. IoT devices should include 850 and 900 MHz GSM to cover both networks’ 2G if needed.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Flow) and 2100 MHz (Digicel) . Flow’s 3G is Band 5 (850 MHz) and also used some 1900 earlier, but primarily 850 now . Digicel’s 3G is Band 1 (2100 MHz) only . Thus, an IoT modem must have UMTS 850 and 2100 for full 3G access. Both networks called HSPA+ “4G” until real LTE came in 2018.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz on both. Flow launched the first LTE on Band 13 (700 MHz) in 2017 , covering major areas of St. Kitts and Nevis. Digicel followed with LTE on Band 17 (700 MHz) in 2018 . By now, each likely has both blocks (12/13/17) aggregated, and possibly refarmed 1900 for extra capacity (Flow’s LTE-A upgrade) . The key requirement is 700 MHz FDD support – either band 13 or 17 (most devices that have one have the other, as they overlap). Also, band 2 (1900) LTE could be present as Flow mentioned LTE-A (they might use 1900 MHz as a second carrier) , so having Band 2 is a plus.

• 5G: None. St. Kitts and Nevis have not rolled out 5G; LTE Advanced is the fastest service.

 

Compatibility notes: Saint Kitts and Nevis closely follow the typical Flow/Digicel band split seen elsewhere . A device that worked in Dominica or St. Lucia will work here: GSM 850/900, UMTS 850/2100, LTE 700 are needed. Notably, Flow and Digicel both use 700 MHz for LTE, simplifying things . Flow’s early LTE is Band 13 (Verizon-style), so if choosing one, Band 13 is slightly more crucial for Flow SIMs . Digicel’s is Band 17 (AT&T-style). Many IoT modules include both. Since Flow has LTE-A, they might have turned on Band 2 LTE – including that will help if available. For 3G, ensure Band 1 and Band 5 – otherwise a device might end up stuck on 2G with one of the networks. One advantage: small geography – even if an IoT device has only one of the two carriers’ 3G bands, it can use the other carrier’s LTE as coverage is island-wide (roaming agreements pending). Generally, though, plan for multi-band. 2G is still around but likely to be sunset in the next few years as these islands move forward. Rely on 4G where possible.

 

Saint Lucia

 

Networks: Digicel and Flow share the market 50/50 . LTE launched in 2017–2018, no 5G.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz (Digicel) and (formerly) 1900 MHz (Flow) . Digicel St. Lucia runs GSM on 900 MHz. Flow had GSM on 1900 MHz; it may have reduced it as LTE came, but it was reported operating at least until LTE launch . Quad-band GSM devices can utilize either. Practically, Digicel’s 900 MHz GSM provides the 2G coverage on the island now.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Flow) and 1900 MHz (Digicel) . This is inverted from many islands: Flow uses Band 5 (850 MHz) for 3G (expected), but Digicel St. Lucia uses Band 2 (1900 MHz) for its 3G . Digicel did not deploy 2100 MHz here, likely due to spectrum constraints, choosing 1900 MHz for “4G” HSPA+. Thus, an IoT unit must have UMTS 1900 support to get data on Digicel St. Lucia . And it needs UMTS 850 for Flow’s network. Band 1 (2100) is not used at all in St. Lucia.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz (Band 13) on Flow; 700 MHz (Band 17) on Digicel . Flow launched LTE in 2017 on Band 13 (Upper 700) and Digicel in 2018 on Band 17 (Lower 700) . Digicel now has islandwide LTE on Band 17 (58 sites) . Flow likely also uses some Band 2 or Band 5 LTE (not confirmed publicly) to achieve LTE-A, but primary is 700 MHz. For IoT, having either of the 700 MHz bands will yield 4G service (most devices treat 13 and 17 interchangeably if they cover “700 MHz”). Band 2 LTE might exist in city areas – including it is helpful, but not required for basic coverage.

• 5G: None. Saint Lucia has not deployed 5G; LTE coverage is still being expanded.

 

Compatibility notes: Saint Lucia is another case of split frequencies. The unusual aspect is Digicel’s use of 1900 MHz for 3G . This favors North-American devices – e.g., a device made for AT&T (850/1900 3G) will be perfectly aligned with Flow and Digicel 3G here. A European device (900/2100 3G) would struggle: it lacks 1900 for Digicel, and 2100 isn’t used at all, so it would only get Flow’s 850 MHz if that’s supported (many EU devices omit 850). Thus, for Saint Lucia, one should choose a modem with UMTS 850/1900 specifically. On LTE, the situation is easier: both carriers’ LTE is 700 MHz, so any device with a U.S. 4G band will connect. European LTE devices often don’t have Band 13/17 – that can be a problem. It’s advisable to use a module that includes at least Band 17 (which often also covers Band 13) to ensure LTE access . Since Digicel’s LTE is extensive (65%+ coverage) , an IoT device without 700 MHz LTE would be stuck on 3G – tolerable for some applications, but not ideal for future-proofing. In short: to assess compatibility, a mobility operator should verify UMTS Band 2 and LTE Band 13/17 on their IoT hardware for St. Lucia . 2G fallback will default to Digicel’s 900 MHz if needed, which most modules have. (Flow’s GSM1900 is likely decommissioned by now for LTE refarm.) As with other islands, both Flow and Digicel allow roaming in each other’s Caribbean territories; however, SIMs are usually kept local. Plan the device band support accordingly for whichever SIM (Digicel or Flow) you plan to use in St. Lucia.

 

Saint Martin / Sint Maarten (French & Dutch)

 

Networks: French side (northern Saint-Martin): Orange, SFR, Dauphin Telecom, Digicel (Free). Dutch side (southern Sint Maarten): Telcell (local TelEm) and Flow (Chippie/UTS) . These seven networks overlap on one 87 km² island, with roaming agreements in place due to the border . 5G: Limited – the French side has 5G on n78 (3.5 GHz) since 2022, Dutch side has no 5G yet.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz & 1800 MHz on both sides . The French operators use GSM 900/1800 as in Guadeloupe. Telcell on the Dutch side uses GSM 900 (and had 1800 too pre-Irma) . Chippie (Flow) also broadcasts GSM 900/1800 for St. Maarten . As of 2017, Telcell and Flow discussed shutting 2G after hurricane damage to focus on LTE , but GSM likely remains in reduced form. An IoT device should still include 900/1800 GSM for any low-end needs, but anticipate that 2G may be retired in coming years on the Dutch side.

• 3G (UMTS): 2100 MHz (Band 1) on both French and Dutch networks . French Saint-Martin follows the standard 3G Band 1. Telcell also operates 3G on 2100 MHz (it launched HSPA in 2011) . Flow Chippie runs 3G on 2100 MHz as well (with possibly some 850 from its unified core, but primary is 2100). So UMTS Band 1 is the common denominator. A device with UMTS 2100 will have 3G service on any network in St. Martin. (Dauphin Telecom also used 2100 for its 3G.)

• 4G (LTE): French side: 800 MHz (B20), 1800 MHz (B3), 2600 MHz (B7) as in Guadeloupe. Dutch side: 1800 MHz (B3) and 1900 MHz (B2). Telcell finally launched LTE in 2017 on Band 3 (1800 MHz 10 MHz) . Flow Chippie had LTE on Band 3 in 2016. There’s also indication Telcell added Band 2 (1900) in certain areas for LTE-A . The French networks use Bands 20/3/7 (and possibly 8) from the 2016 spectrum plan . For an IoT device, Band 3 LTE is essential, as it covers both sides (Dutch networks and part of French deployments). Supporting Band 20 and Band 7 will allow connection to Orange/SFR LTE. Band 2 is a nice-to-have for Telcell’s capacity layer. In summary, a multi-band LTE unit (Bands 3, 7, 20 at least) will function on both halves of the island.

• 5G (NR): French side: 3500 MHz (n78) active in parts of Saint-Martin (Orange and SFR 5G since late 2022). Dutch side: No 5G yet. For IoT, 5G is not critical here yet – coverage is limited and devices can use 4G. When Dutch side rolls out 5G, it likely will be mid-band (e.g. 3.5 GHz as well).

 

Compatibility notes: Saint Martin is a unique case of two regulatory domains in one small area, but the good news is the device requirements overlap heavily. If your IoT hardware is configured for Europe (GSM 900/1800, UMTS 2100, LTE Bands 3/7/20), it will work perfectly on the French networks . It will also latch onto the Dutch networks, since they too use 900 GSM, 2100 UMTS, and 1800 LTE. If your device is configured for U.S. (GSM 850/1900, UMTS 850/1900, LTE Band 2/4/12), it will find Dutch Telcell’s 2G/3G hard to access (lacking 900/2100), but it could roam on French Orange which has 850 3G only in a few spots (not reliable). Therefore, using a European/International modem is recommended for St. Martin to cover the necessary bands. Also, local IoT SIMs can roam across the border: e.g., an Orange FWI SIM will roam onto Telcell in Dutch side with no surcharge , and Telcell SIMs roam onto Dauphin in French side free . This means if your device connects to one side’s network, it can still operate across the whole island. But it also means the bands list must cover both sides’ frequencies to avoid any dead zones when crossing the border. To summarize, ensure quad-band GSM, UMTS 2100, LTE Band 3 (plus 7, 20) in your scooter/bike IoT devices for St. Martin . This will guarantee service whether the device is in Marigot (French) or Philipsburg (Dutch) or anywhere between. (And as a bonus, it covers Saba/Statia which use the same Dutch frequencies and free roaming as well.)

 

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

 

Networks: Flow and Digicel . LTE started in Dec 2018, no 5G.

• 2G (GSM): 900 MHz (Digicel) and very limited 850/1900 (Flow) . SVG’s 2G is primarily Digicel GSM 900 . Flow had GSM 850/1900 earlier, but likely curtailed it as 3G/4G grew. Officially, “2G is on 900 MHz” in SVG’s context , implying Digicel’s network. IoT devices should have GSM 900 to maintain any 2G link (e.g., SMS in remote Grenadine islands).

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Flow) and 1900 MHz (Digicel) . Similar to St. Lucia, Flow runs 3G on 850 MHz in St. Vincent , and Digicel runs 3G on 1900 MHz (PCS band) . There is no 2100 MHz 3G used. So Band 5 and Band 2 are required on the device’s 3G radio. This configuration means American devices (850/1900 UMTS) fit perfectly. European 2100-only devices would not get 3G at all here.

• 4G (LTE): Digicel: 700 MHz (Band 12/17) and 1900 MHz (Band 2). Flow: 700 MHz (Band 13) and 1900 MHz (Band 2) . In December 2018, Digicel launched LTE on both 700 MHz and 1900 MHz . Flow followed with LTE on 1900 MHz and then 700 MHz Band 13 shortly after . So both networks now utilize Band 2 (PCS) for capacity and a 700 MHz band for coverage (Flow uses Upper 700, Digicel Lower 700) . IoT devices must support LTE Band 2 and one of Band 12/13/17 to have full 4G access. Band 2 is particularly important as it carries a lot of the load in populated areas (and likely forms part of Flow’s LTE-A).

• 5G: None. Saint Vincent’s regulator has not introduced 5G; operators are focusing on LTE expansion and fiber backbone after the 2021 volcanic eruption.

 

Compatibility notes: Saint Vincent’s frequencies again mirror the “St. Lucia model”: Flow=850, Digicel=1900 for 3G; LTE on 700/1900 both networks . For an IoT hardware profile, this means UMTS 850/1900 and LTE 1900/700 are non-negotiable. Fortunately, that’s essentially an AT&T/Latin America band set. Many Cat-4/6 modems made for LATAM include Band 2 and Band 4 and Band 5 and the relevant 700 band – those would thrive in SVG. A device solely with European bands (900/2100 3G, 1800/2600 LTE) would fail to get 3G and only see partial LTE (maybe Band 7 if Flow had any, but they don’t). Therefore, mobility operators should ensure their IoT devices for SVG support the American spectrum. Quad-band GSM helps in fringe coverage (Digicel GSM 900 might reach some outer Grenadines where 3G hasn’t). After the 2018 launch, Digicel reported ~65% coverage on LTE and aiming for 100% , so leaning on LTE is wise for future-proofing. Notably, both Flow and Digicel allow roam-like-home in the OECS region, so a device from St. Vincent might roam to St. Lucia, etc., using the same bands. Happily, those countries use the same arrangements (850/1900 3G, 700/1900 LTE) – making a unified device configuration viable across multiple islands.

 

Sint Maarten

 

(See Saint Martin above – the Dutch side’s Telcell/Chippie frequencies are covered in that section. Sint Maarten requires the same bands: GSM 900, UMTS 2100, LTE 1800.)

 

Trinidad and Tobago

 

Networks: TSTT (bmobile) and Digicel. These are large, modern networks. LTE widely available, and as of 2023 some limited 5G trials (not mass-market).

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz (both operators; 1900 MHz GSM was shut off) . TSTT and Digicel originally had GSM on 850 and 1900, but by 2019 they turned down GSM 1900 to repurpose it . Now GSM continues only on 850 MHz for legacy use. A quad-band GSM IoT device will connect (on 850). However, given both operators plan to eventually retire GSM, 2G should not be relied on long-term in T&T.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz and 1900 MHz (both operators) . T&T’s 3G networks were strong on Band 5 (850) and Band 2 (1900) for both bmobile and Digicel . These ran up to DC-HSPA+ and covered almost all populated areas. As LTE grew, 1900 MHz was partially refarmed, but 3G is still available on both bands until 2022. (Both carriers likely keep UMTS 850 active at least until 2024 for voice fallback.) IoT devices should support UMTS 850 and 1900 to utilize 3G (and indeed most global modules do).

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz (Band 28), 1700 MHz (AWS Band 4), 1900 MHz (Band 2) on both networks . The regulator awarded new licenses in 2017 allowing LTE on 700, 850, AWS, 1900 . Both bmobile and Digicel launched LTE on Band 2 (1900 MHz) first (bmobile in 2016, Digicel in 2018) . Subsequently, they each added Band 28 (700 MHz) for wider coverage (bmobile in 2020, Digicel around 2020 as well) , and Band 4 (AWS-1) for capacity (bmobile late 2022, Digicel similar) . So at present, an IoT device in T&T should have Band 2, Band 4, and Band 28 to attach to all LTE signals . Band 5 (850) is also licensed for LTE but not yet deployed widely (it might come as 3G is shut down). Notably, TSTT also runs a separate TD-LTE network on Band 41 (2500 MHz) for fixed wireless, but IoT devices won’t use that (it’s a data-only home service) .

• 5G (NR): Limited trials. In mid-2023, bmobile demoed 5G NSA on n41 (2.5 GHz) and n78 (3.5 GHz) in select areas, but there’s no commercial 5G plan yet. IoT devices can ignore 5G in T&T for now; LTE is the primary network for years to come.

 

Compatibility notes: Trinidad’s network is fully aligned with North American standards . Any LTE Cat-1/Cat-4 module that works on AT&T or Verizon will have the needed bands (LTE 2,4,5,13, etc.). Specifically, ensure LTE Band 28 support – this is a 700 MHz band not used in the U.S. but crucial in T&T . Many modern modules do include Band 28 (since it’s used in Asia/Europe). Band 28 gives excellent coverage (bmobile covers >90% population with 700 MHz LTE). AWS Band 4 and PCS Band 2 provide capacity in cities (needed for throughput or if many devices connect). For 3G fallback, Band 5 (850) is most important, as that will likely remain until the very end of 3G, whereas Band 2 3G might get refarmed sooner. Since T&T is a relatively large country (1.4 million people) with robust networks, IoT operators can count on LTE coverage in all urban areas. Both carriers also deployed LTE-M (Cat-M1) and possibly NB-IoT on Band 28 as part of their network upgrades (TSTT announced IoT network plans in 2020). If your IoT hardware supports LTE-M on Band 28, it could benefit from even deeper coverage and battery savings . In summary, Trinidad and Tobago demands a U.S./LATAM frequency profile: GSM 850 (for legacy), UMTS 850/1900, LTE 2/4/28 (and ideally 5/12 which could come into play). Fortunately, this is a common configuration for M2M modules targeting the Americas.

 

Turks and Caicos Islands

 

Networks: Flow and Digicel (plus a defunct Islandcom network acquired by Flow) . LTE launched in 2015; no 5G.

• 2G (GSM): 850 MHz (Flow) and 900/1800 MHz (Digicel) . Flow TCI uses GSM 850 for 2G, reflecting its “US frequencies” approach . Digicel deployed GSM 900/1800 . Both 2G networks exist but are less used since LTE covers most populated areas. Still, IoT devices should support 850 and 900 MHz GSM to have voice/SMS fallback on either network.

• 3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 850 MHz (Flow) and 2100 MHz (Digicel) . Flow’s 3G runs on 850 MHz (Band 5) in Turks & Caicos . Digicel’s 3G is on 2100 MHz (Band 1), as per its typical configuration . That mirrors other islands like Antigua. So an IoT unit needs both Band 5 and Band 1 UMTS for complete 3G coverage.

• 4G (LTE): 700 MHz (Bands 13 and 17) on both operators . Turks & Caicos was one of the first Caribbean markets where both Flow and Digicel rolled out LTE (in 2015) using 700 MHz spectrum. Flow likely used Band 13 (Upper 700) and Digicel Band 17 (Lower 700) . By now, each may have access to both blocks. There were no mentions of AWS or 1900 LTE in TCI; population is small (~50k) so 700 MHz suffices for coverage. IoT devices must support Band 17 or 13 to get LTE service (having both is ideal, but one will usually do, as many chipsets combine them). Digicel’s LTE covers ~94% pop by 2017 . Flow’s LTE is also nearly island-wide.

• 5G: None. With such a small population, 5G isn’t on the horizon yet; LTE is more than adequate.

 

Compatibility notes: Turks and Caicos is straightforward once you realize it’s basically one 700 MHz LTE network duplicated. A U.S. Verizon-compatible IoT device (with LTE Band 13, CDMA, etc.) would work on Flow’s LTE but might lack 900 MHz 2G for Digicel. But since LTE is prevalent, that’s okay. Ideally, use a GSM/LTE device with a broad band set: GSM 850/900, UMTS 850/2100, LTE 700. That covers Flow’s voice and data and Digicel’s as well . There’s no need for high-band LTE like 1800 or 2600 here. Also, note that TCI uses the USD as currency and has close ties to U.S. – their networks were influenced by U.S. standards (Flow’s 850/1900, earlier Islandcom was a CDMA operator). For IoT, sticking to global GSM/UMTS and making sure of Band 13/17 support is the key. Both Flow and Digicel participate in Digicel’s “Roam Like Home” and Flow’s “Caribbean Roaming” schemes, meaning a device from another Flow island will treat TCI as local and vice versa . So if your IoT SIM is from, say, Jamaica Digicel, it can roam into TCI Digicel using the same bands. Consistency across these operators (lots of 850/900 and 700 usage) makes a single hardware profile viable. Summing up: Band 700 LTE + dual-band UMTS + dual-band GSM and your e-scooters will phone home happily from Providenciales to Grand Turk.

 

U.S. Virgin Islands

 

Networks: Liberty Mobile (formerly AT&T), T-Mobile, and Viya (a local carrier that took over Innovative). USVI networks integrate with PR’s. 5G available via Liberty and T-Mobile (since 2020).

• 2G/3G: Same situation as Puerto Rico – legacy GSM/UMTS networks have been decommissioned by the main operators. AT&T (Liberty) and T-Mobile have no 2G/3G active (both shut down 3G by 2022). Viya, the local carrier, had CDMA and some GSM, but it mostly shifted to LTE and acts as a roaming partner (Verizon devices roam on Viya LTE now) . IoT devices should assume no 2G or 3G in USVI, and plan for LTE-only operation.

• 4G (LTE): Liberty (AT&T): 700 MHz (Band 17), 850 MHz (Band 5), AWS (Band 4), PCS (Band 2). T-Mobile: AWS (Band 4/66), 700 MHz (Band 12), 600 MHz (Band 71). Viya: 700 MHz (Band 13) primarily (for Verizon roaming) plus some Band 5. Essentially, the USVI has the full array of U.S. LTE bands in use. Liberty’s network uses Band 17 as its base (for AT&T roaming) , plus Band 5 and Band 2/4 for capacity. T-Mobile covers the islands with low-band Band 71 and Band 12, and high-band Band 2/4/66 for capacity (these mirror PR). Viya (the Verizon roamer) broadcasts Band 13 (Verizon’s 700 MHz) to serve Verizon customer devices that come in . For an IoT device, supporting Bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 17, 66, 71 might sound exhaustive, but if it’s designed for U.S. nationwide it will have most of those. At minimum, Band 4 (AWS), Band 12/13 (700s), and Band 5 (850) will ensure connectivity on at least one network in USVI.

• 5G (NR): T-Mobile: active 5G on 600 MHz (n71) covering USVI, and mid-band 2.5 GHz (n41) in more populated areas. Liberty: low-band 850 MHz DSS (n5) and starting C-band (n77) as in PR. Viya: no 5G (it’s focused on LTE for roaming). IoT devices likely won’t use 5G here unless specifically built for it, and can rely on LTE.

 

Compatibility notes: The U.S. Virgin Islands’ cellular environment is identical to the mainland U.S./Puerto Rico, just with an additional carrier (Viya) that one typically wouldn’t use unless roaming. IoT deployments usually use AT&T (Liberty) or T-Mobile SIMs in USVI for seamless integration with mainland plans. Therefore, the device must meet AT&T’s or T-Mobile’s certification requirements. For AT&T/Liberty, LTE Bands 2, 4, 5, 12/17 are mandatory (and band 14 if FirstNet access is needed; not usually for scooters). For T-Mobile, Bands 2, 4, 12, 66, 71 are important. Most IoT modules for North America include all these, but double-check band 71 if using T-Mobile – it’s relatively newer but crucial for coverage . Since 3G is off, the device also needs to support Voice over LTE if voice calls (e.g. emergency 911 or remote listen-in) are part of the solution. Additionally, low-power IoT modes: AT&T/Liberty supports LTE-M (Cat M1) on Band 5 and NB-IoT on Band 12 in USVI as part of its IoT network, which could be beneficial for battery-operated trackers. Make sure the hardware is capable if you intend to use those services. In summary, treat the USVI as you would any U.S. state for network compatibility. If your e-scooter IoT unit works on AT&T and T-Mobile in Florida, it will work in St. Thomas and St. Croix – just ensure all relevant LTE bands are on-board, since there’s no 3G fallback in USVI.

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Across the Caribbean, IoT devices for scooters/bikes should be multi-band and multi-mode, covering both “European” and “American” frequency sets where networks vary. The above per-territory breakdown highlights the key bands: common themes include 2G on 850/900, 3G on 850/2100 or 900/2100, and 4G heavily on 700 MHz and 1800/1900 MHz. As 2G/3G sunsets approach (especially in U.S. territories), a focus on LTE band compatibility is crucial. By equipping hardware that supports the cited bands and technologies, mobility operators can ensure their IoT devices remain connected from the Dutch Antilles to the French Antilles, from the Lucayan Archipelago down to the Windward Isles – providing a seamless experience for e-scooter and e-bike users throughout the Caribbean.