We know the Internet is taking over what seems like every aspect of our lives, but what exactly does the future look like for us?

What is IoT

A big part of this future is sure to be the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT, simply put, is connecting any device to the Internet, and allowing it to communicate real-time data without involving a human being. In Security Today, it is predicted that by the end of 2020, we will have 31 billion IoT devices; that is up by over 4 billion devices just from 2019.

By connecting these devices to the internet, it allows automated systems to collect, gather, and analyze the data and then create an action off their findings. One example of a device that is making its way into our homes is Google Home and Alexa. By connecting these devices to the internet, we can tell them what to do with voice commands. They can connect to our speakers and play us music, answer our questions, tell us the news and weather and much more.

IoT in Real Life

Going forward, people are looking to connect more and more devices not only to the internet, but to each other. For example, IBM writes about one scenario that could take place. They explain that you get an email saying your train is canceled that you normally take to work. Now your phone knows you must drive to work, therefore it will take some extra time and sets your alarm to wake you up fifteen minutes earlier. This then connects to your smart coffeepot and your coffee will start brewing earlier for you as well.

On a grander scale, IoT can help to build Smart Cities, and work to solve immense problems we face with our growing population. Business Insider explains Smart Cities to be cities that “use IoT devices such as connected sensors, lights, and meters to collect and analyze data. The cities then use this data to improve infrastructure, public utilities and services.” Integrated Systems has begun work in multiple Counties to promote the development of Smart Cities. One solution we see many Counties investing in is the development of LTE Networks. They tend to prefer this solution because of the cost-efficiency and flexibility. High-speed wireless technologies allow them to install a variety of network devices such as security cameras, license plate readers, and more. Of course, running fiber to each device is an option too and offers its own pros and cons.

The Future of IoT

The possibilities of what a Smart City can do is limitless. As we grow and learn more, we are finding newer and better ways to help make daily life more efficient for each person. Forbes writes about Smart Cities and includes an interesting picture of what some of the possibilities can be. For example, we could monitor traffic lights and congestion; it can monitor vehicles and when to change lights, or where a high number of pedestrians are located to make it safer for walkers. Waste management can also be monitored and know when waste levels are high in the bins to optimize trash collection routes. There are many more examples that show just what the possibilities are.

Pairing artificial intelligence, with LTE networks is going to pave way for a transformative new era. We are experiencing just the beginning of IoT and what it is capable of!