Internet of Things, or IoT, is a concept that states that everything that can be connected will be connected. This means that everyday objects will eventually become devices used to monitor, transmit, and receive data. Each will then have its own identifier so that it, and its data, can be uniquely recognized.
The present
IoT can include anything from “wearables” (portable electronics ex. mobile phones ) to devices for smart homes, smart cities and beyond. A IoT device can monitor, react, and interact together with connected devices, to solve more complex problems then what a single device can.
Some examples of IoT devices that exist now:
- Health monitors that can track heart rate and step count
- Learning thermostats can monitor home temperature and learn user patterns to optimize efficiency
- Smartphones that know to download updates and upload photos only when they are connected to Wifi
- Bus stop signs that can remotely update the schedule using geolocation of busses for more accurate timing.
The future
As research in low energy consumption and connectivity advance, IoT is quickly developing such that it can be included in everyday objects.
Some examples of IoT devices that are being developed:
- Sensitive clothing that continuously monitor patient vitals for better diagnosis and for training to monitor the effect exercise can have on the body
- Traffic systems that can adapt to accidents or congestion and can adjust GPS navigation routes or control traffic lights to maximum traffic flow.
- Networked ocean monitors to detect pollutants and water quality for research.
- Smart batteries that send out notifications when they need to be changed/charged.
Can you think of some current examples of IoT either present or future?