The term “Internet of Things” (IoT) was first used by Kevin Ashton in 1999. However, it didn’t gain popularity until 2011, when Gartner recognized IoT devices as an emerging technology. It gained widespread attention across the world and By 2021, there were 21.7 billion connected devices in the world. Out of these, over 11.7 billion, or 54%, were IoT devices. This shows that IoT devices now crossed the number of non-IoT devices globally.
But the main question is what are IoT devices and why these devices are so popular across the world, so today in this article we will be discussing the same which will help you to understand IoT devices better, including their types, uses, importance, examples of IoT devices and much more. Â
What is IoT?
“IoT” stands for the Internet of Things, which refers to a large network of physical objects or “things” that are connected to the internet. These devices collect and share data with other systems and devices through internet connections.
Although IoT has been around since the 1990s, recent technology improvements have made it more common and useful. The growth of IoT is driven by factors like the availability of low-cost sensors, easy access to cloud computing, and advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence.
IoT devices come in many forms, from everyday household items like kitchen appliances to advanced industrial machines. Each device has a Unique Identifier (UID) that makes it different from others. These devices can send data on their own, without needing human help.
The rise of IoT has changed how we interact with the world around us. As more devices become connected, the opportunities for new ideas and smoother connections keep growing.
Types of IoT
The type of networking, communication, and connection protocols used can vary depending on the specific IoT application. Just as there are many different IoT devices, there are also different types of IoT applications based on how they are used. Below are some of the most common types of IoT.
- Consumer IoT: This type of IoT application is primarily intended for everyday consumer use. It includes devices like home appliances, voice assistants, and light fixtures that enhance home convenience and connectivity.
- Commercial IoT: Commercial IoT applications have extensive usage in the healthcare and transportation industries. Examples include smart pacemakers that monitor and assist with heart conditions and advanced monitoring systems for transportation logistics.
- Military Things (IoMT): IoMT refers to the application of IoT technologies in the military field. It encompasses devices like surveillance robots and human-wearable biometrics, which aid in combat operations and enhance military intelligence.
- Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): IIoT is focused on industrial applications, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and energy. It uses digital control systems, smart agriculture technologies, and industrial big data analytics to optimize processes and improve efficiency.
- Infrastructure IoT: This type of IoT application revolves around connectivity in smart cities. It entails the deployment of infrastructure sensors and management systems to monitor and manage critical aspects of urban environments, such as traffic flow, waste management, and energy consumption.
By understanding these different types of IoT applications, businesses and organizations can choose the right technologies and protocols to suit their needs. This ensures seamless integration, improved efficiency, and enhanced connectivity in the respective application domains.
What Are IoT Devices?
IoT devices are hardware devices like sensors, gadgets, and appliances that gather and share data through the internet. They are specially manufactured and programmed to perform specific tasks and can also be built into other IoT devices as their subset.Â
For example, an IoT device in your smart refrigerator can track the items inside and send you a reminder when you are running low on groceries or when your things are kept there for so long.
How Do IoT Devices Work?
IoT devices may have different functions, but they all work in quite similar ways. These devices are physical objects that can sense what is happening around them. Each IoT device has a built-in CPU, a network adapter, and special software. They are often connected to a server that assigns them an IP address, which allows them to have their unique network.
Most IoT devices are controlled and managed through an app, like using your smartphone to control your home lights. Some devices come with built-in web servers, so you don’t need an external app. For example, the lights may turn on automatically when you enter a room.
Why is IoT important?
IoT has made it possible for the physical and digital worlds to connect and work together. It offers many advantages to businesses by helping them automate and simplify daily tasks. As IoT continues to grow each year, companies are using its great potential for business benefits. Some key benefits of IoT include:
- Creating new ways to make money and develop business models
- Improving decisions through insights gained from IoT data
- Boosting productivity and making business operations more efficient
- Enhancing customer experience
For example, imagine having an IoT device installed in your car. This smart device can identify the traffic conditions ahead in real-time. In the event of a delay, it can automatically send a message to the person you are about to meet, notifying them of the delay. This level of connectivity and automation allows IoT devices to simplify our daily lives by intelligently interacting with one another and making our tasks more efficient.
Examples of IoT Devices
IoT devices transform how we interact with technology, from smart home devices that regulate the temperature and lighting to wearable fitness trackers that monitor our health. These devices enhance convenience, automate processes, and facilitate seamless communication by harnessing the power of connectivity and data exchange.
Google Home Voice Controller
The Google Home voice controller has gained immense popularity as one of the top IoT devices available today. It offers voice-enabled services, including setting alarms, controlling lights, adjusting thermostats, managing volume levels, etc. With a simple voice command, you can control various aspects of your smart home.
Amazon Echo Plus Voice Controller
The Amazon Echo Plus voice controller is another highly sought-after IoT device renowned for its reliability. It provides various voice-enabled services, such as answering phone calls, setting timers and alarms, checking the weather, and performing many other tasks. Its seamless voice recognition capabilities effortlessly integrate into your daily routines.
August Doorbell Cam
The August Doorbell Cam is a smart IoT device that allows you to answer your door remotely, no matter where you are. It continuously captures and monitors any motion changes or suspicious activities at your doorstep.
With this device, you can stay connected and ensure the security of your home, even when you’re away.
August Smart Lock
The August Smart Lock is a trusted and reliable security IoT device that allows you to manage your doors remotely. Its advanced features keep potential intruders at bay and provide additional protection for your home. Whether you want to lock or unlock your doors, you can do so conveniently and securely from any location.
Foobot
Foobot is an impressive IoT device designed to measure indoor pollution levels accurately. Its primary objective is to improve air quality in various environments, including houses, cafes, workplaces, and other indoor public spaces. By monitoring pollution levels, Foobot proactively enables you to maintain a healthy and clean indoor environment. These IoT devices offer many features and benefits, catering to different needs and enhancing convenience in our daily lives.
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IoT Devices FAQs
What is the trend of IoT in 2024?
The IoT trend in 2024 includes growth, edge computing, AI integration, 5G connectivity, and industry-specific solutions to improve business efficiency.
What are some examples of IoT devices?Â
Examples include smart mobiles, refrigerators, watches, fire alarms, door locks, bicycles, medical sensors, fitness trackers, and security systems.
How many devices will be connected to the internet in 2024?
There were approximately 15.14 billion IoT devices connected to the internet in 2024. This number is just under twice the number of people worldwide (eight billion).
What are the top technologies expected to boom in 2024?Â
The following are the most promising ones:Â
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Â
Machine Learning (ML)
Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Edge Computing
Quantum Computing
Virtual Reality (VR)Â
Augmented Reality (AR)
Blockchain
Internet of Things (IoT).
What are the IoT trends for 2025?Â
The majority of enterprise-generated data will be created and processed at the edge, and there is a growing use of AI and ML to analyze data from connected devices.
