The Internet of things is how the physical devices around the world are connected to the internet for both gathering and sharing data. These devices have sensors to gather information and instead of being passive devices, the information they gather can be shared and analyzed.
IoT is growing rapidly, International Data Corporation (the leader in the information about the technology market) states by 2025 there will be over 40 billion connected devices. This includes smart home and wearable items for consumers. Businesses are expected to increase automation in buildings, security, smart meters, and the automotive industry.
Internet of things only recently became feasible as electronics have dropped in price, miniaturized, and do not require as much power as they once did. As well an update to the networking standard has meant that the number of devices connected to the internet is almost limitless at this point.
Home use of IoT has already become mainstream, from thermostats that can be controlled remotely or even “learn” patterns of use to doorbells that can steam a view to an owner’s smartphone where they are placed and also sense movement. Cloud-based devices like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home. Smart devices perform a variety of tasks not just for entertainment but also for utilitarian tasks such as gathering information and setting timers. Devices like smartwatches and fitness wearables that gather and present information are good examples of IoT devices. Home alarms are often internet connected to offer both user control remotely as well as notifications. Self-driving vehicles are a relatively new development, that is rapidly improving and may well disrupt the entire transportation and commercial trucking industry.
Businesses have also adopted IoT devices, such as RFID tags, (smart labels), that help monitor merchandise and other assets including product codes and data. Sensors on factory equipment and assembly lines give up-to-the-moment data on current production as well as trends. Information about transportation and service vehicle fleets can also be monitored. Smart buildings can control things like heat and lighting to be more environmentally friendly as well as save costs. In the construction industry, IoT is used to track tools to prevent unauthorized use of equipment.
Connecting devices to both gather data as well as being transmitted it for analysis, has become an integral part of our society. We don’t think twice about this technology it works seamlessly people soon adapt to its convenience. As we continue to connect more and more IoT devices we can interpret patterns in data and adjust accordingly. In the future, these devices may become even more helpful in many ways home use as well as business.