The emergence of automated meter reading (AMR) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) transformed an industry that had historically changed at a measured pace. Advances in metering technology, communications networks and grid modernization are bringing next-generation AMI, or AMI 2.0, into focus. Many utilities replaced meters only at the end of their service life, and some considered manual meter reading adequate for their needs. These networks supported core AMI functions such as remote meter reading, automated billing, outage detection, and remote connect and disconnect. At the same time, advances in meters, communications and grid modernization are creating opportunities for next-generation AMI.