Predictions for Computers and the Internet of Things in 2020

The Internet of Things (IoT) is now a part of our everyday lives. In the past, only our computers were connected to the Internet. Then, our phones became connected. Now, nearly every device in your house and business has become connected to the Internet. From cars to refrigerators, and from TVs to window shades, our daily devices are now a part of the IoT.

Because we provide businesses with the perfect Internet of things computers at EWC Technologies, we like to keep up with the latest trends in the IoT world. The technology is changing and improving so quickly, and staying up to date can be a challenge. Fortunately for you, we’ve been able to comb the web for the most relevant Internet of things predictions.

Massive IoT Adoption: 21 Billion

In 2015, there were 4.9 million Internet-connected devices. By the end of 2016, the number of devices exponentially exploded to 3.9 billion. Experts are predicting that by the end of 2020, the number will be around 21 billion devices.

To put that into perspective: if each device were a mile, you would be able to travel to the moon and back nearly 44,000 times.

It makes sense when you think about the boom of tech devices in the past few years. People have embraced the connectedness of their daily lives, and things like watches, light bulbs, security systems, and pet cameras are all connected and controlled by mobile devices. But the largest influx of connected devices will come from commercial and industrial users.

Industrial IoT

These 21 billion devices are not all iPhones, Alexas, and juicers. One of our favorite Internet of things predictions is there will be a major shift towards commercial and industrial IoT devices. Manufacturing facilities will be able to have a bird’s eye view of every step in the process with machines that include  Internet of Things computers. Commercial buildings will have IoT connected security devices, mailboxes, and even coffee machines.

There are major implications for nearly every industry, especially agriculture, transportation, and telecommunications. These industries are mobile and spread out. Having connected assets will allow companies to more efficiently manage everything from one central location.

Smart Cities

The improvement of cellular networks (LTE and 5G) has been the driving force in the massive adoption of Internet of Things computers and devices. Every device needs a connecting network, and since city participation is necessary in getting the network infrastructure in place, cities themselves are taking advantage of IoT technology.

An Internet of things prediction experts are making: cities will become major players in the implementation and deployment of IoT connected devices, and soon, more Smart Cities will emerge. Devices and sensors could be used to monitor and manage all aspects of a city from traffic patterns, power plant operations, schools, libraries, and other municipal services.

Increased Security Concerns

With new technology comes new security worries, and Internet of Things computers are no different. With billions of endpoints and massive connectivity all over the world, there are a lot of opportunities for hackers to potentially take advantage. Because of these security concerns, new IoT security companies have emerged (and will continue to emerge). In addition, companies that are already producing devices are innovating and will continue to innovate their security measures.

If your company has plans to join the future of Internet of Things computing, then  contact us today. We’ll be able to help you find the latest in Intel NUC technology so you can build a powerful network for less and crush your business computing goals.