In a world dominated by connectivity and artificial intelligence, eliminating IoT from the list of disruptive technologies is no easy task. This impact goes beyond the ability to connect devices to machine learning and other advanced technologies.
Every day the Internet of Things technology helps connect physical objects — from home devices to industrial equipment. Using sensors and software, these devices inevitably enable a seamless exchange of information.
Innovation #1. Integrating Artificial Intelligence With IoT Technologies (AIoT)
AI and IoT creates a great combination together — IoT provides collected data to AI, and AI complements IoT with advanced control capabilities.
IoT sensors are invaluable parts of the machine learning data pipeline. For example, real-time data collected by IoT sensors monitoring factory assets can allow machine learning algorithms to predict when assets will need maintenance in the future. This practice is called predictive maintenance and is one of the key applications of AI in manufacturing.
Another area where Internet of Things innovations and artificial intelligence work effectively together is in visual monitoring, which improves the efficiency of operations in the industrial and distribution sectors.
Innovation #2. Expanding IoT Connectivity – 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and LPWAN
One of the first obstacles that IoT networks have recently faced is the price on mobile communications. However, as technology continues to evolve, various aspects of IoT such as sensors, edge computing, wearables, and the smart home are also expected to improve.
- 5G. In many IoT deployments, establishing reliable infrastructure connections precedes the deployment of sensors or other devices. While cellular networks such as LTE are sufficient for certain scenarios, their fundamental limitations mean they are no longer useful. In contrast, 5G networks have very high speeds and efficiently meet the data processing needs of IoT networks.
- Wi-Fi 6. In other environments, Wi-Fi operating in the 6 GHz band significantly improves IoT throughput. Faster communication between devices makes for a more reliable system. In addition, the integration of Wi-Fi 6 into homes offers significant benefits for IoT smart home networks.
- LPWAN. Low-power wide area networking (LPWAN) is emerging as a promising technology for connecting low-bandwidth devices over large areas. This makes it an ideal choice for technical communication between IoT devices. LPWAN networks primarily improve energy efficiency and are therefore more cost-effective.
Innovation #3: Improving Latency and Security with Edge Computing
Simply saying, edge computing processes data closer to the end user and reduces network load by performing local rather than central processing.
This approach not only increases the security of data processing, but also reduces the latency of commercial IoT technologies. Processing data on the device instead of sending it to a central server significantly reduces the risk of IoT data analysis being intercepted by hackers. It’s also common to use various data streaming platforms, like Apache Kafka, to handle high volumes of data with low latency.
Edge computing proves invaluable in scenarios that require quick decision-making, especially when it comes to security. For example, Internet edge computing can protect people by automatically stopping machines in closed factory spaces when someone is nearby.
Similarly, the ability of autonomous vehicles to make critical decisions in real time could save lives on the roads. Today’s smartphones demonstrate this capability by detecting car accidents and calling emergency services, a feat that seemed futuristic decades ago but is now a reality thanks to the Internet of Things innovations.
Innovation #4: Strengthening Smart Cities
Internet of Things technology has many interesting applications for creating smart city networks.
For example, water level monitoring creates early warning systems for residents, alerting them to current and potential flood risks and helping to detect such events. These information tools are intended for preventive measures to predict future floods.
Smart street lights also provide several opportunities. Roads act as universal platforms for a variety of sensors, facilitating traffic monitoring, weather monitoring, and providing free Wi-Fi and observation. Additionally, street lights can be used to control digital street lights, as the street lights themselves are often equipped with these multi-functional lights.
Innovation #5: Improving Wearable IoT Technology with AR and VR
When the IoT innovation is integrated to provide real-time information, the capabilities of AR and VR devices are greatly enhanced. Professionals benefit from accessing real-time sensor data and network information directly on their head-up displays:
- Surgeons perform operations using head-mounted augmented reality devices and use wearable devices and sensors to provide critical data.
- Manufacturers conduct virtual tours of facility layouts using digital dual simulations in virtual reality, using real-time data from IoT sensors to measure performance.
- Distribution center employees use augmented reality on mobile devices to determine the location of goods in warehouses, and IoT devices facilitate the tracking of goods and provide navigation directions.
The evolution of IoT includes various sectors such as retail, logistics, and even healthcare. It is important to recognize that the Internet of Things rarely works in isolation. IoT needs to be combined with AI, VR, and other technologies to upgrade business infrastructure.
As an accomplished technology enthusiast, Laurenz Dallinger has a strong interest in digital transformation, with a particular focus on IoT. As a valued member of the Cedalo team, the company behind the top MQTT broker, Laurenz is passionate about sharing his knowledge and ideas with developers seeking new and efficient ways of communicating with devices.