In layman’s language, IoT or the Internet of Things refers to a network of interconnected computing devices, machines, people, animals, or objects that can share data over the Internet. Some of the critical components that these objects (things) depend on are:
- Sensors
- Data processors
- Connectivity
- Applications
These elements work together to enable IoT devices to connect to the Net.
The History of IoT
History argues that the Internet of Things was conceived by Mark Weiser and Kevin Ashton in the 90s. The latter used the phrase “Internet of Things” for the first time in 1999 during a presentation. It came into full effect around 2008 – 2009. In 2018, IoT dominated the headlines – it was a daily topic of discussion.
How does the Internet of Things Work?
Sensors and actuators play a crucial role in the implementation of IoT devices. Communication with other computing systems may either involve a wired or wireless network. Effectively, it becomes possible to monitor and control the physical world using technology.
Does your home have a smart TV?
If so, then you are part of the Internet of Things. IoT is literally everywhere!
At the industrial level, we have smart manufacturing, smart power grids, and connected logistics. Industrial IoT (IIoT) is perhaps the most vibrant wing of the Internet of Things industry.
Machine learning, control systems, and real-time analytics also have a share in the IoT cake. Nowadays, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have saturated the digital space. The Internet of Things devices can determine which data to use and the ones to discard to detect patterns. Ultimately, they can provide recommendations and avoid problems before they emerge.
Applications
| Setting | Examples |
| Home | Smart TVs, smart mirrors, wireless kitchen appliances, automated vacuums, voice assistants, and livestock-tracking systems |
| Retail Sector | Self-checkout systems, cashier-less payment systems, warehouse robots, wireless shipment tracking, and help optimized inventories |
| Production Environment | Automation, remote monitoring, supply chain optimization, and predictive maintenance |
| Transport | IoT efficient traffic management systems, automated toll, IoT ticketing, self-driven cars, and car tracking technologies |
| Smart Cities | Adaptive traffic control systems, smart parking lots, street lighting, and smart waste management |
| Healthcare | Remote patient monitoring, heart-rate monitoring, depression and mood monitoring, IoT inhalers, ingestible sensors, and automated surgery |
What Inspired the Development of Internet of Things?
The following are some of the technologies that made the Internet of Things possible:
- Availability of broadband internet (a high-speed Internet connection that is always on)
- Introduction of affordable and reliable sensors
- Low-cost processors
- The growth of cloud computing platforms
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Advancement of machine learning and analytics
The Future of IoT
There is too much speculation surrounding the Internet of Things. We expect a steady growth of connected devices to 22 billion by 2025. The ever-dynamic tech environment is what catalyzes the increase of IoT devices.