What will be the next step in the Internet of Things?
The early stage of the Internet of Things (IoT) development was largely driven by the increasing number of deployed and potential sensors. However, as we look ahead, several key success factors are becoming more evident. The future of IoT is not just about connecting devices—it's about creating value for end users through practical applications that deliver real economic benefits. One major trend is the development of longer-lasting batteries, with some systems now designed to operate for years without replacement.
In wireless IoT monitoring systems, data transmission is a significant power consumer. To address this, intelligent edge computing has emerged as a crucial strategy. By processing and analyzing data locally at the edge nodes, systems can reduce the volume of data sent to the cloud—often in a more sporadic or time-sensitive manner. This approach not only conserves energy but also enhances system responsiveness and efficiency, adding substantial value to IoT ecosystems.
Security and reliability remain central to the future of IoT. As systems become more interconnected, ensuring safe and dependable operations is essential. Therefore, successful IoT designs will increasingly focus on metrics such as trusted sensor integrity, system uptime, and secure communication protocols. Analysts suggest that low-cost development platforms are currently experiencing a peak of inflated expectations, but I believe the next phase will see a shift toward more advanced, high-precision solutions.
Within the next year, I predict that IoT platforms will begin to saturate the mass market. Over the next two to five years, specialized, high-precision sensors and analog signal chains will dominate, driving the IoT industry forward with greater accuracy and performance. These advancements will not only enhance system capabilities but also unlock new opportunities for monetization through software and services.
One of the most critical components of any IoT system is the conversion of analog signals into digital data. The quality of this process directly impacts the usefulness of the data generated. Silicon-based technologies have transformed how we detect, measure, and interpret the physical world, bridging the gap between the real and digital realms. This advancement enables smarter decision-making and more accurate insights.
The most effective IoT deployments are those that leverage data to drive meaningful change. For instance, in industrial settings, machine learning can predict when maintenance is needed and even identify specific components requiring attention, such as a worn-out bearing in a motor. This level of precision leads to improved efficiency, safety, and cost savings.
At the core of every successful IoT system is the ability to accurately detect, measure, and convert real-time signals into actionable data. If this initial step is compromised, the entire system’s effectiveness is undermined. High-quality hardware and reliable measurement tools are therefore essential. According to recent Gartner reports, low-cost development boards are entering a phase of disillusionment, possibly due to oversupply or shifting focus toward more sophisticated applications.
These more advanced applications demand precise data, making rough measurements inadequate. Edge computing and cloud-partitioned architectures support complex signal chains, enabling deeper analytics and better decision-making. While the cloud plays a vital role in aggregating and analyzing large-scale data, many processes must occur at the edge to avoid latency and ensure timely responses.
McKinsey highlights that only 1% of cloud data is actually used effectively, underscoring the importance of local processing and security. As a result, edge intelligence is becoming a cornerstone of modern IoT systems, allowing for faster, more secure, and more efficient operations.
In industrial automation, active machine monitoring improves uptime, enables real-time optimization, and supports cross-plant integration for enhanced productivity. Intelligent partitioning ensures that cloud resources are used efficiently, while embedded algorithms allow for real-time data interpretation and predictive analytics.
Finally, the creation of a reliable wireless network is essential for the success of IoT systems. Most connected devices rely on radio frequency and microwave communication to transmit data to the cloud. These networks vary in range, data rate, and power consumption, with some devices operating for months or even years without recharging. In harsh environments, maintaining reliable connectivity is especially challenging.
Customers seek low-cost, low-power, and low-latency solutions that can scale easily. Reliable networks must overcome interference and maintain performance, often using alternative paths and channels to ensure stability. As IoT continues to evolve, the ability to build robust, secure, and scalable communication infrastructures will be key to unlocking its full potential.
Shenzhen Ruidian Technology CO., Ltd , https://www.wisonen.com