Current conversations about the future of technology almost inevitably include an incursion into the “internet of things”, or simply “IoT”.
This concept describes the network of physical objects—“things”—that are embedded with technology in the form of sensors, software, and other
developing tech for the purpose of connecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the internet.
The idea of a network of smart devices was discussed as early as 1982, when a modified Coca-Cola vending machine at Carnegie Mellon University became the first Internet-connected appliance, able to report its inventory and whether newly loaded drinks were cold or not.
Since then, applications for IoT devices have expanded and are currently often divided into consumer,
commercial, industrial and infrastructure spaces.
Ever heard of IoMT (the Internet of Medical Things)? Such classification includes “smart healthcare” tech like devices monitoring vital bodily functions such as blood pressure, specialized implants (e.g. pacemakers), electronic wristbands and advanced hearing aids. The information collected from these devices could prove crucial in remote health monitoring and emergency notification systems.
Transportation services also feature their share of IoT, including technology supporting smart traffic control, smart parking, electronic toll collection systems, logistics and fleet management, vehicle
control, safety, and road assistance.