What Is Internet of Things? How Would Such as a Technology Impact Daily Life of an Average Person? What Are the Commercial Applications?

By

B Ravi Teja

IIM Sirmaur

IoT, ordinarily alluded as Internet of Things, is a system of inter connected computing devices and objects that are equipped for exchanging information all alone without human interference. IoT drives the everyday gadgets to interface and communicate with outer environment through internet. IoT vastly uses sensors and devices in this process. It is the integration of physical world with internet technology. Flipping through the channels of television with your phone is a basic example of IoT.

IoT is gradually changing the way we humans live, with inclusion of smart watches, smart tv’s and other smart gadgets into our daily lives IoT surely has made our lives easier and comfortable. In fact, almost any device we use in the home, from bulbs & thermostats to refrigerators & ovens has a connected smart version of itself. Fueled by greater access to cheaper gadgets and the comfort they bring in, IoT is also sweeping into technically challenged peoples’ lives. Let us explore a few ways IoT is making strides in the daily life of an average person-

Smart wearables:

It is a rapidly emerging category of IoT, encompassing any smart gadget you wear on your body. Smart watches, fitness bands, smart jewelry, smart glasses are a few gadgets making our lives qualitative using IoT. Smart watches and fitness bands are a rage in the present world. Smart watches are portable smart phones that usually look like a conventional watch but with added advantages. They have access to sensors measuring heart rate, temperature and other sensors of barometer, altimeter, microphone, camera, GPS, etc. These sensors together work in tandem with each other. With these sensors, smart watches and fitness bands can trace location measure a person’s physical activity and even warn them in case of unknown hypertension shoot-outs. Apple watch is credited for saving many lives since its inception in 2016.

Smart gadgets:

This is a category that has emerged after the consumerization of IoT began. This category comprises of a wide array of gadgets. Smart speakers, smart assistants, smart casting devices, smart switches etc. are a few of them. These inventions wouldn’t have been possible without the advent of IoT. These gadgets are making peoples live truly cozy. Gone are the days when we unlock our phones and search for a specific song to listen. Gone are the day when we walk up to the switchboard to switch on/off the fan in room. One doesn’t have to move their finger to switch on the electricals in the room or play their favorite songs from a speaker. One just needs to command the smart assistant. It recognizes the voice and follows the directions. These are just a few ways IoT is spearheading the change in our lives.