The rapid growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) has been fueled by the falling cost of sensors, the proliferation of connected devices, and the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). The IoT is the network of physical objects (vehicles, devices, buildings, etc.) embedded with sensors, software, electronics, and network connectivity that allows these objects to collect and exchange data. According to a recent report from McKinsey, the IoT could have a total economic impact of up to $12.6 trillion per year by 2030.
While the IoT is still in its infancy, the AIoT represents the next wave of the IoT, where AI is used to turn data into insights and actions. The AIoT has the potential to transform industries and society and it is already starting to have an impact. This article will explore the principles of AIoT, its benefits, and current use.
What Is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things, or IoT, is a system of connected sensors and devices that can collect and exchange data. The data collected by these devices can be used to automate processes, improve efficiency, and make better decisions.
IoT devices are typically equipped with sensors that can detect various environmental conditions, such as temperature, light, and sound. These sensors can also track the location of devices and detect when they are being used. IoT devices can be connected to the Internet using a variety of technologies, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, and cellular data. It’s estimated there were 25 billion devices connected to the IoT in 2021.
IoT devices can be used to automate a variety of tasks. For example, a sensor that detects when a door is opened can be used to turn on the lights. Or a sensor that detects when a car is parked can be used to open the garage door automatically. IoT devices can also be used to collect data for analytics purposes. For example, a sensor that tracks the number of people who enter a store can be used to analyze customer traffic patterns.
The AI in AIoT
AI plays a very important role in AIoT. Without AI, the IoT would simply be a bunch of devices connected to the internet and collecting data. However, AI can make sense of all this data and turn it into useful information.
Let’s use the example of a smart home to explain this further.
Say you have a connected thermostat in your home. This thermostat collects data about the temperature in your home over time. However, it is the AI that can take this data and use it to improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. The AI can do this by constantly learning and improving its algorithms by trial and error.
For example, if the AI notices that the temperature in your home is too cold, it will adjust the settings of your heating system accordingly. The AI will also consider other factors, such as the weather and time of day. This allows the AI to constantly optimize the performance of your heating and cooling system, saving you money in the process.
Benefits of the AIoT
The AIoT is still in its early stages but has already begun to transform how we live and work.
General Benefits of the AIoT
The benefits of the AIoT are many and varied:
- In the home, AIoT-enabled devices can control the temperature, turn on the lights, and open the door.
- In the workplace, AIoT can monitor employee productivity, safety, and compliance with regulations.
- For consumers, the AIoT can make life easier and more convenient.
- For society as a whole, the AIoT can help us better manage our resources and protect the environment.
As the technology matures, we can expect to see even more amazing and transformative applications of the AIoT in our homes, workplaces, and communities.