The “internet of things” is a term coined by Kevin Ashton in 1999 but it started in the 19th century when the telegraph came into use. Visions of machines communicating have been around since the 1800s, but it was slow in coming. Now in less than two decades, the IoT has completely transformed the world we live in. Today, connectivity between people and processes dominates most aspects of life.
The IoT is driven by GPS locations, cameras and microphones, temperature and humidity sensors, and more. This infographic shows how the internet of things has changed our world. It also shows how the connectivity of various devices is making life easier, safer, and more efficient.
An IoT device is any device with an on/off switch that connects to the Internet. At last count, there were 21.5 billion of them around the world. This number will reach 30.9 billion by 2025. So many connected devices offer humans a host of opportunities. They also bring security problems that hackers have been quick to exploit.
Today we live in smart homes located in smart cities. We have wearable devices and drive smart cars. We work with IoT-enabled industrial and agricultural equipment. Already communication between devices has cut motor vehicle accidents. Wearables check vital signs so that people can convalesce at home and smart parking has reduced traffic congestion.
Just imagine the future as technology drives cheaper smart devices and 5G allows for further sensitization and more and smarter devices.