When you think about the Internet of Things (IoT), you probably think about connected houses that learn the lighting preferences of every family members or smart refrigerators that order eggs when you run out. For most of us, those IoT uses are probably not quite the reality. For most people, common IoT uses actually include a host of smaller items that we’re using on a daily basis to make our lives easier.
What is the IoT?
The Internet of Things or IoT refers to a set of internet-connected devices that can collect and share data.
Here is a look at some of the top, most popular IoT devices that the average person may encounter in the course of their day.
- Fitness trackers and smartwatches;
- Wireless headphones/earbuds;
- Wireless printers that can print from your phone, tablet, or computer;
- GPS-enabled dog collars that show where your pooch goes;
- Find My Phone apps;
- Internet-enabled home security systems;
- Connected thermostats;
- Smart TVs;
- Intelligent personal assistants, such as Siri, Alexa, Cortana, and the Google Assistant;
- And yes, smart refrigerators.
What possibilities does the IoT offer?
One of the most powerful pieces of the IoT is that it allows our devices to learn what we like.
Hate for it to get too hot in the living room? Your connected thermostat will learn that and make changes to the temperature to meet your needs. Love Sufjan Stevens? Your Spotify app may automatically play more of his music next time your phone links to your car’s speakers.
This type of intelligence can be used to make all types of devices work together. For example, if your gym offers an app to help members track their goals, you can connect to the most popular fitness trackers to import their information automatically — making it easier for your members to interact with your app and meet their fitness goals.
Ready to put the best IoT devices and uses to work for you? Contact our team to find out whether the IoT has a place in your mobile strategy.
