The issue with LoRaWAN is that it's an IoT thing like you say that is meant for connected sensors with the help of the Internet.

It has actually a neat encryption system where there are network keys and app keys such that apps need not be tied to networks.

But it's really designed for an operator with a larger sensor network. That and the corporate feel properly scared people off. It's been going strong for over 10 years though I think.