Our application requires switching between NB-IoT and LTE-M without flashing firmware of any part, including modem. We were recommended the nRF9160/nRF52840 due to this capability. I noticed in the modem firmware release notes (1.3.1 at time of writing) that this feature was introduced in version 1.3.0 so should be workable with our dev kit. From the release notes, new functionality of 1.3.0:
- Feature for application to enable both LTE-M and NB-IoT system modes. In this mode modem automatically uses both systems while searching for suitable cell. Application can configure which one of the system modes is preferred system and whether system shall be preferred over network, or the opposite. Feature can be utilized by using existing AT command AT%XSYSTEMMODE.
However while evaluating the board for the first time, I've been following the latest Getting started with nRF9160 DK guide which (in multiple places) it mentions the need to select either an LTE-M hex file or an NB-IoT hex file for the application firmware.
Can anyone please confirm that the nRF9160 really can switch between NB-IoT and LTE-M without requiring any flashing at all - with identical 'modem' and 'application' firmwares (selecting whichever is available)?
I'm surprised there is no sample application firmware to demonstrate this essential feature. For us, this feature is a deal-breaker.
Other askers have asked similarly but I believe with the new firmware in light and lack of demonstration or mention in the documentation begs to reframe the question.
