The Internet of Things, or IoT, is a system of interconnected devices and sensors that collect and share data about their surroundings. So far, we’ve mostly seen IoT in its infancy with smart phones, fitness trackers, and home assistants like Alexa. But by 2023, experts predict that there will be 30 billion connected devices worldwide—and that number is only going to grow. Here are some of the ways that the IoT will change the world over the next few years.
1. The proliferation of connected devices will lead to a data overload—but AI will help us make sense of it all.
With so many devices collecting data about our every move, it’s going to be hard for humans to make sense of it all. That’s where artificial intelligence comes in. AI can help us sift through all that data to find patterns and insights that we would never be able to see on our own.
2. Businesses will have to change the way they operate.
IoT will cause a major shift in how businesses operate. For one thing, businesses will have to re-think their supply chains to accommodate the influx of data coming from IoT devices. They’ll also need to invest in new technologies and hire employees with the skills to manage all that data.
3. Cities will become more efficient—and more livable.
IoT sensors can help city planners make infrastructure improvements, like reducing traffic congestion or increasing energy efficiency. And as more city dwellers get access to IoT-enabled devices, quality of life will increase overall.
4. Privacy concerns will come to the forefront.
As more and more devices collect data about our daily lives, privacy concerns are bound to arise. We’ll need to figure out who owns all that data and how it can be used—before it’s too late.
Conclusion
The Internet of Things is already starting to transform the way we live and work—and it’s only going to become more prevalent in the years to come. By 2023, there will be 30 billion connected devices worldwide, leading to a major shift in how businesses operate and cities function. However, with this rapid growth also comes some significant challenges that we’ll need to address, like data overload and privacy concerns. But if we can overcome these obstacles, IoT has the potential to improve our lives in countless ways.
