Our life is getting automated as we step into the future. We live in an era based on the Internet of Things in which electronic devices and products are all connected and able to communicate bi-directionally with each other without any human interaction. This evolution has given birth to a myriad of connected devices available from different manufacturers.
The outburst of connected technology and smart devices has created an opportunity for us to connect everything to the internet. From smartphones to automatic coffee machines, the journey has been quite futuristic.
What is The Internet of Things (IoT)?
IoT revolves around advanced machine-to-machine communication, and this technology will make everything from seaports to streetlights “smart.” The value lies in the intersection of gathering information and analysing it. Nowadays, there is a vast network of objects that are integrated with software, electronics, connectivity, and sensors. With the help of IoT, these objects can both obtain and exchange data. With the arrival of mobile devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, we herald a new era of interactive and smart information sharing.
In simplistic terms, IoT is about connecting devices to the internet. For instance, you can find smart technology in smart appliances, automobiles, wearables, and mobile devices. The emergence of true IoT happened when the devices started functioning smartly and brimmed with intelligence to enhance our interaction with other devices.
According to a report, it is estimated that by the year 2022, the installed base for IoT will be 212 billion including 30 billion connected devices. This is a massive market, and it will have a deep impact on the lives of an average person. We already hear about connected and self-driven cars and smart homes, which indicates a huge potential impact of the IoT.
The Smart Home Revolution
A smart home is one of the most searched IoT associated features on the web. But, what exactly is a smart home? The cost of owning a house is the greatest expense in a person’s life, and a smart home promises to save you money, energy, and time. It is a revolutionary ladder of success in the residential spaces, and it is predicted that it will become as common as a smartphone.
The idea of a smart home for any modern technology-adept consumer can be compelling as most people nowadays already have in-home wireless networks. Hence, the idea of using that network to remotely control a home’s heating, lighting, security, and home appliances such as ceiling fans, refrigerators, and washing machine is the logical next step. By doing so, people acquire access to manage their home’s energy consumption and assure it runs without a hitch. A homeowner can also control their smart home systems and devices anytime, anywhere with the help of an IoT network and a smartphone.
These are some attractive benefits of smart homes to consumers around the world and especially in India where an increasing number of people are demanding smart home control and automation applications. The smart home market has evolved from just security and heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to include features such as entertainment, energy management, lighting system, and fire detection.
Growing Impact of the IoT in SmartHomes
The use of smart home technology has played a major role in cementing the IoT as an important consumer programme, due to advent and accessibility of affordable IoT devices. Earlier a consumer had to spend a significant amount of labor and capital to set up a connected home, but now it is as simple as buying IoT devices off the shelf and connecting them together.
There are a number of possibilities for smart home IoT devices as home automation is gaining momentum. The requirement of home and workplace automation arises due to the arrival of IoT. The smart home devices and gadgets securely and seamlessly monitor, control and improve accessibility from anywhere in the world. These smart devices have an interface with IoT, and it will be the key to connect the dots between technology’s capabilities and human limitations.
The world is on the brink of a home automation boon with a growing number of customers. As stated in a recent survey by Intel Corporation, 71% of Americans expect to see at least one smart device in every home by 2025. Moreover, 68% of the interviewed were positive that the smart home trend would become a commonplace thing within the next decade.
Since the IoT is still in its developmental stage, many exciting technological advances are waiting to happen. IoT solves the problem of communication and improves the quality of life for people who live in a smart home. But, the engineers and developers must innovate technology to ensure the security and stability of its users. The future of the smart home system is fascinating as more and more devices will be able to communicate with each other, and IoT will bring a large-scale shift in the way we work and live.
Author Bio: Arindam Paul is a founding member of Atomberg Technologies, a startup working towards manufacturing unique energy efficient fans and tech-savvy products. He is currently heading the Marketing and long-term strategy division at Atomberg and is aiming to disrupt the world of household appliances.