There’s a good chance you’ve heard about IoT (Internet of Things) by now. But even if you have heard the term, do you truly understand what it means or how it applies to your life? Here are the answers to some common questions you might have about IoT.
What exactly is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things, also known as IoT, is a constantly growing network of physical objects that do not require direct human interaction to operate. Instead, “things” connect to the internet and can send and receive data by communicating with other internet-connected objects and systems.
TV Commercials, Magazine Ads, and More: Why all the buzz about IoT?
Remember when the internet first came into play? It was so exciting to be able to instantly connect with other people and access information using the World Wide Web. Well, the IoT offers a similar lure, except this time, it is on a much wider scale. Already, the number of internet-connected devices in the world has outnumbered the world’s human population! Plus, it is easier and less expensive than ever before to connect things to the internet. In a nutshell, as the IoT and big data continues to develop, it has the potential to impact countless aspects of our lives, both at home and at work.
I work in _____ (fill-in-the-blank). Can my business potentially benefit from IoT?
Absolutely. In fact, when I stop to think, “Which industries wouldn’t benefit from IoT?” I can’t think of any. Granted, there are still many, many developments to be made in the IoT arena, as well as many kinks to work out and problems to solve, but as it stands, IoT has the potential to impact virtually EVERY industry.
For specific examples of IoT in action, check back in the coming weeks for my follow-up blog, titled “7 Industries Being Transformed by IoT.”
Where might I see IoT in action in my everyday life?
Everywhere! Let’s put it this way. If you have an object that can turn on and off, it has the potential to be connected. Even objects that don’t seemingly have an on/off switch at first glance can be connected by using a Smart Label.
If you currently use a smartphone to control an object, if you store your songs or photos on “the Cloud,” or if you have a wearable device, such as an Apple Watch or a Fitbit, you have already had some contact with the Internet of Things. In the future, you can expect much more! You’ll be able to read more about consumer-based IoT developments in my upcoming blog, “Smart Homes of the Future.”
This video quickly outlines the possibilities with IoT (click here to view on mobile):
Video Source: ‘The Internet of Things and Education’ by Princeton University
So there you have it. A quick run-down on the ins and outs of the Internet of Things. As a company, L-Tron will have plenty more blogs and other resources for you to check out in the coming weeks and months. IoT is here to stay and we plan to enjoy the ride! Questions on IoT? Ask us on Twitter!
