IoT – Testreveal

10 Vital Skills To Become an IoT Developer

Posted on December 4, 2020 by Super Admin Testreveal

IoT is one of the most wanted skills for a developer in the 21st century that has innovative power to connect all the devices virtually via internet web service. It is due to this connectivity that devices together produce enhanced potential to automate operations remotely by performing seamless communication.

Companies nowadays seek professionals with polished skill sets in the domain of IoT development. Therefore, it is important to know what skills you need to become an IoT developer. Smart Homes, driver less cars and modern offices are quintessential examples of IoT success.

Here we bring you the top 10 vital skills you need to know to become an IoT app developer.

#1. AI and Machine Learning

An IoT developer should possess the skills of analyzing and gathering a huge amount of data for deciphering the pattern and predicting the outcome.

With the increase of complexity, AI is used for handling the tasks and autonomous decisions are made with the help of AI. The algorithms of machine learning are used for the creation of smarter appliances with the help of data sensors.

The developers should have the skills of machine learning and big data management for making certain predictions which is based on the identification of data patterns. Every company needs skilled IoT developers that can harvest the data from the sensors and connected devices.

#2. Consider the Crucial Role of Sensors

In almost every automated solution, there are sensors exchanging the live data to a digitally connected system. IoT developers must have detailed knowledge and thorough understanding of how sensors work and integrate into the IoT-powered architecture.

It is important for IoT engineers to be skilled in wireless solutions and embedded systems and relevant functionalities. There are many engineering institutes that offer reliable sensors-related courses for IoT enthusiasts.

#3. UI-centric Approach

User experience is closely connected to the design and impact created by User interface. To develop an ideal IoT development skill, it is crucial to be UI-focused since it offers the front control for all background operations and machine-to-machine interactions.

User interface should be built in such a way that even an incompetent person can handle and trigger the most complicated operation using just a few good buttons.

If anything goes wrong, UI must be equipped enough to guide users. Of the challenges for IoT developers, hence, is to cultivate skills to build fluid, intuitive and sophisticated UI with easy-to-understand call-to-actions and interactive elements.

Read Also : 10 Best IoT App Development Tools

#4. Knowledge of JavaScript and Python

Having competitive programming skills helps you appear as a pro in IoT field. You must excel at a few current languages used to program IoT devices such as JavaScript or Python.

If you are a novice, you may need to hone your skills first in these programing platforms and then embark on developing IoT solutions.

JavaScript is the most essential web-based scripting language leveraged for developing scalable and secure backend system. While JavaScript is device-friendly, Python helps developers with performing flawless coding.

#5. Proven Skills in Node.js Development

The IoT developer should possess the skills of working in the open-source environment like Node.js which is used for the server-side web development for the management of connective devices like Raspberry Pi and Arduino. This platform of Node.js is highly preferred for building IoT apps.

A large number of companies with a low resource overhead are using this platform for the development of the IoT apps because of its accessibility and stability.

Some well-known and large enterprises like PayPal, Uber and Netflix are using this platform to experience consistent performance.

#6. Security Infrastructure and Engineering

IoT app development is often hindered by issues like data loss, privacy concerns, security, malware attacks and network vulnerability. The main reasons behind the security issues are the complex nature and scalability of IoT connectivity.

Hence, the companies hire skilled professionals that have the knowledge of endpoint and software security, especially to protect anything that is connected to the internet.

The companies are more prepared than ever to invest in engineering a highly secure IoT architecture and hire talented IoT developers who can mitigate risks involved in embedded systems.

#7. Big Data

A large amount of data is made available after the advancement of IoT and therefore big data is used for the purpose of analyzing and assessing the data.

The companies hire skilled professionals that have knowledge of big data so that the relevant data are collected and the useless information is filtered out. This mechanism is highly effective with AI and other software.

When big data is combined with AI, the enterprises are able to function more efficiently and quickly. Hence, companies look out for skilled developers that have the capability of developing algorithms for the organization of data in a more effective manner.

#8. AutoCAD

As the complexity and quantity of the IoT devices are increasing at a rapid pace, the enterprises require stronger software technologies that are flexible in nature.

Therefore, skilled IoT developers that have knowledge of AutoCAD are appointed by the companies for their necessary development. This software is used by the developers in several engineering applications.

With the help of Auto CAD, smart devices and products are enabled for making necessary design changes during the various stages of product development. This software is used by the developers for the purpose of personalization and hardware standardization.

#9. Cloud Computing

Due to interconnected network of things of IoT, there is a good chance that there will be a large amount of data to handle. This will require a reliable data storage which poses as a big challenge for IoT developers. One solid way to address this issue is to resort to cloud computing solutions that can help host excess of data.

This is the reason why IoT industry is open to hiring professionals who are versed in or have previous history of working on cloud computing technologies for effective analysis-ready data storage and management solutions.

#10. Mobile Hardware Environment

IoT indicated Internet of Things where Things further reveal hardware components. Since hardware is the core of IoT embedded system, it is essential for developers to possess most exquisite knowledge on how hardware works and what goes where.

IoT experts need to be aware of the tendency of each component connected to the internet and their responses to surrounding conditions along with how much data is flowing through those devices.

All the objects are driven by mobile apps and software built for smartphones, wearables, tablets, PC, etc. This is why it is primarily expected of developers to have sound knowledge about iOS and Android platforms ecosystem.

Read Also : Top 10 IoT Trends to Expect in Future

Conclusion

Among all other skills, discussed above are vital for developer who are looking to have flourishing career in IoT domain. IoT companies would need to construct the workforce full of professionals who are willing to foster collaborative, dynamic and agile environment.

Also, if you aspire to be a handsomely paid IoT development specialist, you will be expected to master these trending skills.

If you are an entrepreneur or investor looking for experienced IoT app development company, you may contact us with your ideas and strategies.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Blockchain Technology

Posted on November 5, 2020 by Super Admin Testreveal

The advent of Blockchain technology has brought advantages to many industries and at the same time some disadvantages too. Being a decentralized digital ledger system, it has a considerable difference between traditional centralized databases. This difference is visible in their operations too.

The blog tries to explore blockchain technology and its key advantages and disadvantages.

What is Blockchain Technology?

“The blockchain is an indestructible digital ledger for keeping track of economic transactions which can be programmed to maintain not only financial transactions but virtually everything that has value.” Don & Alex Tapscott, authors Blockchain Revolution 2016.

Now this means that this decentralized ledger is not controlled by any financial institution or government for that matter. It can be accessed by everyone who has a good internet connection.

Other than virtual currencies, there are many companies such as messaging apps, critical infrastructure security, ride-sharing, cloud storage, etc. are harnessing the power of blockchain technology.

Advantages of Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology came into markets in recent times, but it has witnessed many industries gaining great advantages with it. Below are the advantages of blockchain technology that proved its significance and growth.

#1. Trustworthy Distributed Systems

The traditional transaction process has an intermediary party like a bank, credit card, or other services. It comprises an extra charge in the form of a transaction fee. The major advantage of Blockchain technology here is every transaction made is public. The overall cost is also reduced to a great extent.

The distributed network nodes of the blockchain technology verify every transaction stage and replace the need for intermediaries. The process where miners constantly verify all kinds of transactions round the clock is called mining.

Thus, blockchain technology never fails to monitor transaction aspects and almost impenetrable to fraud. Eliminating intermediaries will reduce the risks of relying on a single organization and cut down costs too.

#2. No Government Interference

Blockchain technology can manage the major systems controlled by existing governments more efficiently. It can create, store, and proceed with information on every single transaction at all times.

The government or any financial institution has zero control over virtual currencies that are based on blockchain technology. Government interference has often led to the devaluation of various currencies and a good example of that is the latest Zimbabwean Dollar.

Regardless of the nation and currency, one of the top problems, when governments interfere much with the currencies, they end up either with inflation or hyperinflation by printing too much currency in a short time. As the blockchain is a decentralized online ledger, it’s next to impossible for governments to interfere and take any action on cryptocurrencies.

#3. Increased Stability

One of the major advantages of Blockchain technology is its stability. Companies now rely on these systems that have higher retention in their services. Once data is saved in the digital ledger, it is hard to remove or change it. Such a stable system can make processes easier than before.

The data saved on Blockchain is visible and accessible by the people who have permissioned access. The accuracy and paperless system enable more transparency throughout the transaction process. Tracing back previous records is also easy as you can conduct audit rials in Bitcoin transactions.

There is no need of creating multiple ledgers for different members, a single stable ledger is distributed among the members with the least fraudulent activities.

Read Also : 10 Best IoT App Development Tools 2020

#4. Instant Payments at Reduced Costs

The transactions done via Blockchain is rapid but at a reduced overall cost. The traditional paper-heavy processes of transaction stages are effortlessly replaced by single record-keeping of Blockchain. Without any third-party interventions, the process is completed well with trustworthy dealings.

There is no elaborate documentation process and transactions are done with the least number of errors. Cryptocurrencies help in streamlining processes quicker and at reduced costs.

#5. Improved Security & Financial Efficiency

As mentioned above, the blockchain process is quicker and reliable compared to that of traditional procedures. The main advantage of blockchain is that there is no third-party intervention which leads to greater financial efficiency. Such a system will let users enjoy money and time-saving transaction process.

People will be dependent on blockchains for not relying on a single organization for their entire transaction process. Once a transaction is agreed upon, the system offers the information to multiple open networks instead of a single server like in traditional transaction systems. This will prevent hackers from fraudulent cyber crimes as the transaction is openly distributed.

Disadvantages of Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is indeed a godsend for the now world. Studies suggest that there is some kind of attacks happening against block technology today. Let’s look at the disadvantages of Block technology.

#1. Private Key Issues

Blockchain addresses are made up of individual private keys. That is, each person with permitted access has his/her private key to make their operations. Cryptography deals with public-key blockchain processes. This public key address is shared with individuals where they access via their private keys as said above.

If the person loses their private key, the process turns into a failure. They can do nothing to save their money or further transaction procedures. This private key is something like managing our bank. So, issues related to the private key makes blockchain technology a big failure.

#2. Extremely Volatile

The cryptocurrencies that are based on blockchain technology are highly volatile. Of course, one good example of that is the fluctuating prices of Bitcoin that vary each day.

One of the reasons behind that this volatility is that the decentralized blockchain technology and the virtual currencies are new characters to the market.

This means that the companies, governments, and other groups adopting or not adopting them will affect the volatility surely. This is a huge drop and this kind of volatility is bothering people who are thinking of investing in Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency for that matter.

#3. Issues in Scalability

Many allege that Bitcoins are the best currency type and thus the Blockchain technology too. Still, it is said that only about seven transactions can happen per second over this network. As we discussed, the system is distributed, and verifying transactions under each of the nodes is essential.

When we consider the scalability issues, the number of transactions per node is limited. Sometimes users may have to consume several hours to complete their procedures.

It is said that increasing the number of active users according to blockchain’s transaction speed is not practical. Classic banking procedures are more rapid and scalable than that of blockchain.

#4. Security Issues

It is said that Blockchain technology offers maximum security compared to all other transaction methodologies. Still, it is not completely secure and research says about Blockchain technology faces a 51% attack.

51% attack is sometimes so critical that the intruders can gain control over the system for sure. Such a network will be affected by double-spending too.

The security threat is aggravated by the anonymous nature of this bitcoin system. Anonymity is appreciated, but identifying culprits attempting illicit transactions is difficult here. Less Transparency is a downside of blockchain technology so far.

#5. Data Modification is Difficult

In blockchain technology, it is hard to add or modify data once after it is recorded. It is considered as the major disadvantages and advantages of blockchain technology. Considering its downside, the process of data modification needs rewriting codes and indulges in an extensive process.

Too much stability can sometimes adversely affect systems. The major disadvantage of blockchain technology here is irreversible records and its demanding modification process.

Read Also : Top 10 IoT Trends to Expect in Future

Closing Thoughts

Some believe that it will help in creating cryptocurrencies which will become a potential rival to precious metals while others believe that it is soon going to burst like a bubble and nothing more.

Blockchain technology has both advantages and disadvantages like two sides of a coin. Many mainstream sectors are enjoying the perks of such a robust and reliable technology so far. But some consider the downsides of technology and are thinking about implementing the technology. In the end, It’s all up to you.

10 Best IoT App Development Tools

Posted on November 4, 2020 by Super Admin Testreveal

The whirlwind of IoT revolutions and connected devices have engulfed the IT industry today, combining the best of both programming and device hardware. Not only has it opened new promising horizons for IoT developers and companies, but IoT app development tools also enables creation of remarkable products in narrow time frame. The multifaceted field of IoT is growing into something of an unstoppable drive.

Already 57% of companies have adopted IoT technologies, and this number is likely to mushroom by 2020. So how can you approach the idea of building IoT-enabled apps? For that you need robust IoT app development platform and tools.

Here is the list of the 10 most significant and popular IoT app development tools.

#1. Arduino

Arduino is a perfect option for better optimization of your IoT activities. It is an easy-to-use prototyping platform with a hybrid collection of software and hardware solutions.

The data from active IoT sensors is processed by the master brain Arduino itself. Building projects are effortless with Arduino that comes with a microcontroller facilitating the proper working of IoT devices so far.

Features

Easy for beginners and professionals.
Simplified device registration
A mobile dashboard on the go
Quicker Integration of essential tools

#2. Tessel 2

Popular as one of the robust technologies supporting IoT or AI-driven systems. This is very much used in building basic prototypes or IoT systems. Tessel 2 is useful as it can integrate numerous sensors & modules resulting in supreme IoT based solutions.

Tessel is successfully offering hardware applications and active servers for working systems. IoT management is smoother with open source projects like Tessel 2.

Features

Extremely reliable wi-fi.
Efficient power management.
Robust and speed solution.
Can be programmed using NodeJS.

#3. OpenScada

OpenScada, being one of the popular IoT development tools are produced by Eclipse IoT groups. The tool opens up for guaranteed security and flexibility concerns on connected systems.

Many companies compile OpenScada tools for building advanced and superior IoT applications which is very necessary today.

Features

Supports editing/Debugging
Supports several programming languages
Includes various distinctive tools
Simple and easy -to- use.

Read Also : Top 10 IoT Trends to Expect in the Future

#4. Node Red

Node Red is widely used in major IoT projects today. Developed by IBM, it offers amazing modules to connect APIs services and devices with very less errors.

Developers can easily integrate or connect devices, resulting in better IoT device management. Node red gives out a well-defined purpose or function nodes in the flow-based programming of IoT devices.

Features

Well explained tutorials for beginners.
Easy streamlining of IoT applications.
Open Source logic engine
User-friendly experience.

#5. Home Assistant

Smart home Automation is easy with the open-source tool Home Assistant. Desktop browsers or mobile devices are used for monitoring a home assistant. This open-source tool is best for privacy, security, and operation management.

Factors that slow down internet activities are hindered by the home assistant system itself. The tool is operational on local networks. The latest versions even help in monitoring battery levels of smart devices.

Features

Amazing sensor control
Reliable systems eliminating bugs
Python-based coding system
Trusted for operations.

#6. Device Hive

One of the leading IoT data platforms with a wide range of integration and customization options.

Device hive supports various programming languages and can integrate with any other Device clouds and plugin services IoT devices are easily manageable via device Hive. Visualize data source and dashboard for IoT management is easily organized in Devicehive.

Features

Integrate multiplatform libraries
Scalable hardware systems
Easy smart device communication & management
Monitor multi-device connectivity

#7. Raspbian

IoT tech enthusiasts have invested their efforts in creating an awesome IoT development tool till time. And it is Raspibian. The major advantage of IoT technology is that Raspbian installation is with the use of pre-compiled software.

Smart interconnected devices are easier to control using the Raspbian tool. The tool is mainly used in Raspberry Pi for home automation.

Features

Provide optimal customization tools.
Over 35000 precompiled packages.
Improved stability and performance
Easy to use UI

#8. Canopy

Canopy is a winning Open source platform that lets users control and manage connected devices as a whole. It is so popular for its advanced features that give an entirely new customer experience and engagement.

The major advantage falls on its early capability of identifying issues on IoT systems and remotely control them with triggered notifications. The canopy also offers a cloud-based portal that allows users to review their project reports and easy integrations of critical IoT applications.

Features

Real-time dashboard feature
Exclusive configurable KPIs
Reduced operational costs
Increased visibility of devices.

#9. Zetta

Zetta is a well known open-source platform creating top IoT servers that are active on remote networks. It gives connected devices amazing visibility and assembles them into real-time data-intensive applications.

Zetta works best with microcontrollers like Arduino leading to cloud-based management. The tool helps in abstracting the hard to build IoT systems into feasible projects at a lesser period.

Features

Optimized for data-intensive apps.
Run across global systems.
Efficiently manage connected devices.
Powerful API communication.

#10. Devicehub

Developers easily work with Devicehub for creating successful IoT app stories. It helps in monitoring integrated IoT solutions along with cloud integration. It uses the platform as a service for hardware/mobile developers to gauge smart device users and multiple such devices remotely.

Devicehub has organized several automated fleet solutions, vending machines, etc which has been so relevant and useful for users. It is the starting point for beginner or professional developers for creating IoT devices.

Features

Flexible integration of hardware/web technologies
Deliver scalable app solutions
Highly secure communication systems
User-friendly interface.

Read Also : Impact of IoT on App Development 2020

Concluding Note

To fuel up the progressive trend of IoT, many of the software providers are coming up with app development tools that will help developers create novel IoT devices and apps.

Choosing the right IoT app development tool is a matter of usage, comfort, popularity of opinions and suitability for the type of development project. You can choose to collaborate with IoT development specialists for further assistance in your next IoT project.

Top 10 IoT Trends That Will Change The Future

Posted on November 3, 2020 by Super Admin Testreveal

IoT has revolutionized our life into a smarter one with less human interventions. The IoT trends are evolving with incredible features in diverse sections of our daily activities. It is capable of connecting different objects with sensors and thus, creating a magical world of digital innovations for humankind.

Let’s look at the emerging top 10 IoT trends that we can expect in the future.

#1. Healthcare

Healthcare is one of the major concerns of the now world. Before the advent of IoT, diagnosis, interactions, and treatments were so limited to physical visits and even via text and calls. But the IoT enabled devices which are so popular today is a boon for them. Remote monitoring of health is now possible at simple steps.

Patients can view their health reports, heartbeat rate, burnt calories, and many more things. Physicians on the other side can review the reports, track patient’s wellness, and know their emergencies. Thus, the interactions and treatment practices are very much developed with IoT.

An exciting thing is that even hospitals are getting advantages because of IoT. Wondering how? IoT helps in managing patient’s health, their health parameters, getting indications on their emergencies, and even about patients not getting timely treatments.

Health Insurance companies too enjoy the perks of IoT healthcare devices. By giving incentives, identifying false claims, and many major health insurance concerns at ease. These IoT trends have taken a pivotal role in decreasing healthcare costs but more efficient treatment systems.

#2. Transportation

Transportation is inevitable in almost every sector. Sometimes, for importing/exporting raw materials, consignment delivery, employee transportation, etc. Thus, there must be an effective system to manage transport systems. IoT has stolen the whole credits of efficient transportation management today.

With the help of sensors, embedded devices, IoT systems control communication, and tracking activities throughout the entire transportation process. Many effective IoT services act as a bridge between the owners, drivers, and customers.

Whether it be managing fuel consumption, both owners and drivers can know the time for refueling. Other essential areas like Traffic congestion, route redirection, parking facilities, etc are done quicker via IoT connected systems.

Mass Transit services are also well managed by IoT devices which were very complicated before. IoT helps optimizing transport times, schedules, managing customer needs, etc.

On the road, IoT devices have contributed to reducing traffic congestion, road accidents via efficient IoT devices. As a whole, the merits of IoT devices are impacting well on the Automotive industry; even in personal vehicle development.

#3. Manufacturing Industry

Industry workers are now safer because of efficient machinery helping them with hazardous tasks. IoT devices are very active in almost every industry so far. The whole production cycle of a product is foreseen and actively accomplished by IoT.

AI, Machine learning and sensors together make amazing results in easy manufacturing. Mass customization of manufacturing is easily streamlined at a reduced cost with IoT technology.

Many companies use wearable devices to monitor worker’s health when they are engaging in risky jobs. Inventory management and errorless products are more in a reduced product cycle time.

Outsourced and remote projects are more visible via IoT technologies. Industrial asset tracking and management are smoother than before. As a godsend, IoT is helping industries to maximize productivity and eliminating waste products.

Read Also : Top 10 Ecommerce Trends in Future

#4. Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology has now gained larger importance, especially when associated with IoT. As we know IoT connects various devices and its security or scalability issues are now resolved by effective blockchain Technology.

Companies can use the technology as it really connects many types of participants into a single system making way to easy management of things.

When saying about IoT, There is a need for additional efforts to manage security for the data transfer between the multiple devices involved.

But Blockchain technology makes this without any difficulty. The distributed digital ledger act as reliable robust security as it never allows overwriting over existing data or records.

The technology will take care of millions of connected devices at a time but not like IoT which has unclear ownership data. Tamper-proof records on each transaction via IoT is assured by Blockchain technology. Thus, you can nearly avoid any disputes or issues between the networked members.

#5. Global Connectivity

Manageable networks can be effectively created via IoT services. Wondering How? Take an example of automated vehicles, where the greater distance it travels, the range of managing those devices get widened. So here in your IoT project, the chief ingredients are the IoT devices and their connectivity.

Companies working globally can enjoy the perks of Global IoT connectivity. They can connect or interact immediately when they wish to, with internal and external teams. The Global IoT connectivity is now gaining priority on services that need international or Global reach.

IoT is rising their bars and is expected to outgrow 18 billion connected devices in 2022.

Communication with IoT devices:- Limitless communication with an excellent IoT device(Phones with sim cards) and an IoT business application help remotely working employees to have a constant connection.
24/7 IoT Customer Support:- Users can interact with the product manufacturers, designers, or even technical personnel in different countries.
Supply chain Management:- Logistic companies now rely on IoT devices that can track shipments, authenticate products, and monitor things globally.
Global management:- The management perspective has widened across countries through applauding IoT devices. Whether it is asset tracking, managing or manufacturing raw materials or products, etc is now easier with IoT technology.

#6. Smart Cities Everywhere

IoT is the perfect companion for the new world which can effectively meet the demands of urban tech-savvy people. A smart city comprises elements like smart devices, smart technology, smart management, etc.

Such a city is characterized by connected Information and Communication Technologies(ICT) with an aim of sustainable development practices to take form. Just imagine the advantages you get from remotely connecting and managing your devices in real-time? Smart city is an interconnected and intelligent place where people live a smarter life.

Every place is now shifting into smart cities. Location tracking, connected infrastructure, transport management, etc are now prior concerns of government. They can rely on technology for managing sections where human efforts are hard to achieve success.

Connected cars, home devices, trash collections, traffic management, etc are the major projects happening now that really improves the quality of life. Cloud based IoT apps in the smart cities enable their smart services and people avail them via smartphones, mobile devices, and other exemplary IoT devices.

#7. Artificial Intelligence

IoT and AI just sound great together. AI is an exciting technology that captures some great actionable data from IoT devices. AI is ruling in many sectors today, IoT complements it by paving the way to interconnected machines and generate winning effects. Let’s look at some AI IoT Industry trends prevalent today.

Airlines: AI and IoT join hands to prevent any errors or risks on aircrafts using sensors.

Smart Homes: No matter where you are now? Just control things long away from you with smart devices.

Manufacturing Industry: There are many factories where now human power is replaced by types of machinery as a whole. These machines are full-fledged when associated with AI. Smart sensors in the machinery will help with enhancing productivity and efficiency.

Oil Industries: No more costs for unexpected maintenances. IoT helps in introducing smart sensors to machinery that can cut down huge costs after oil drilling or such activities.

Smart Infrastructure: Many human activities in building sites are now completely replaced by machinery and sensors associated with these machines increase security and prevent accidents too.

#8. Better Data Analytics

Every company now have realized the potential of integrating data analytics into their organizational strategies. Business intelligence seems to be expanding as a domain. Business operations are optimized easily using IoT data analytics.

It can engage more customers, streamline their services, and managing internal & external teams productively. Novel technologies using IoT and data analytics is successful in leading service categories like healthcare, smart cities, etc.

Many companies have already started taking IoT as an important element in their business strategy. The massive information from various devices and systems is to be maintained and stored under a controlled environment which is possible by IoT devices. Popular companies including Microsoft use IoT data analytics for their daily data processes.

Data analytics takes its form in diverse forms. Some companies install sensors to monitor their employees, performance ratings, attendance, etc. In the manufacturing industry, IoT is a godsend for improving and monitoring equipment maintenance.

Sensors can send beeps/alerts if it is in a dangerous working condition before getting any human touch. Automated and optimized operations entice more customers, even the communication process is now IoT based. May it be remote customers or nearby, IoT can analyze and manage things efficiently.

#9. Environmental Protection

Protecting the environment is so important in today’s world. This is not easy for the flock of humans to go and protect the environment in a single day. IoT deals with environmental protection more smartly.

Active sensors can detect environmental change easily. They can effectively forecast weather conditions in a more flexible and accurate data-based. Other environmental IoT services include pollution detection more simply and quickly.

Human labor is just replaced by diverse sensors serving different response efforts on detecting pollutants, preventing contamination, etc. Most renewable and non-renewable resources which are profusely contaminated are now preserved well using IoT technology.

In agricultural industries, some sensors ensure the safety of workers, chemical composition checks, elements that are toxic to human health, etc.

Thus, the indulging of IoT has immensely contributed to the environmental sector. Major Indoor and outdoor systems in smart cities are now monitored by smart devices.

Since the process sensors replace is so complex and this is visible in cost too. That is the cost involved in installing IoT devices in various environments, their maintenance, etc needs to be inquired. But, the usage of IoT in environmental protection is successfully foreseen.

#10. Saas

IoT trends driven businesses reap inevitable benefits. Software as a Service (SaaS) is now relevant especially amid the pandemic time. Studies suggest that COVID 19 is really a catalyst that made companies invest a huge amount in SaaS. Such a SaaS based service will simplify features such as real-time database, scalability, and more.

SaaS follows a service model in which the provider hosts an application over the internet. It is popular as it is cost-effective and immediately available. Without any type of additional hardware or systems, Saas act as an all-in-one solution for enterprises to conduct hassle-free managerial services.

Read Also : Impact of IoT on Mobile App Development

Conclusion

IoT has already shown everyone how it will change our everyday life to a smarter one. It’s up to you, whether you want to end up being one of the winning firms that are currently fostered by the IoT trends.

Do not let yourself to be left in the dark, instead welcome IoT trends for your organization and reap some amazing benefits at the earliest.

Impact of IoT on Mobile App Development

Posted on March 8, 2019 by Super Admin Testreveal

It is no wonder that mobile app market is on fire lately. A study of Smart Insights says that over 90 percent of the people who spent time on mobile devices was actually spent on mobile applications. Mobile apps have come a long way over the past decade and now they have begun to influence the growth of the IoT as well.

As a matter of fact, mobile applications have been acting as a connecting bridge between next-gen thinking enterprises which are trying to bring much smarter devices that can improve every aspect of our lives and customers.

As a result, not only could we say that mobile apps have successfully laid the foundation for the rise of Internet of Things (IoT), but also that IoT and mobile applications go hand in hand.

Considering this great shift, mobile application developers found their score making some effective changes to the mobile app development.

But how did mobile apps help IoT rise?

As of now, mobile applications are utilized as end gamers that are used to do or perform a particular task such as streaming music, playing games, messaging apps, etc. But the thing is that the mobile applications can do much more than just being the end gamers such as serving as gateways.

In general, IoT is much simpler in terms of architecture when compared to smartphones and hence they would require an endpoint in order to send data.

Ultimately, these endpoints are allowed to monitor events such as the temperature in the different rooms before they transmit the data to services so that it can be utilized to analyze trends. As a perfect instance of the above-mentioned type of IoT and mobile application integration is a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat.

Now, in this case, the mobile application is the remote which has complete control over the device while thermostat being the IoT endpoint.

Impact of IoT on mobile application development

In a way, IoT has transformed the face of mobile applications, and to accomplish the goal of making everyone’s life simpler, mobile app developers should first go through the pain of building a flexible infrastructure and platform. In fact, building mobile applications is pretty much similar to building a web application using conventional software development.

Nevertheless, there will be one vital differentiating factor which mobile applications can take advantage of creative features which a smartphone could provide. For example, gaming applications could take leverage of iPhone’s accelerometer.

As Internet of Things continues to grow, the concept of smart appliances, smart homes, smart cities, etc. would come more into existence. In such an environment, smartphones function as the main interface via which users will be able to interact with IoT-enabled gadgets. In the current state, smartphones already have efficient sensors and apps which provide excellent info related to users.

Apart from this, smartphones are also capable of tracking the condition if light, the orientation of gadget, and many other things. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. are some of the variety of functions that enable the devices to interact with the other sensors and devices.

A mobile phone can communicate with fitness equipment and smartwatch to improve the user experience. In the same way, Internet of Things let operate the office system remotely and allow you keep an eye on your office from anywhere.

In short, IoT has developed an immense market demand for the development of applications for them. The same connectivity let the best app developers cooperate with each other easier than ever before.

Industries that are benefiting from IoT app development

When it comes to IoT app development, not just one or two, there are various industries that are truly getting benefited from IoT app development as mobile app developers are trying to make use of IoT solutions in very domain and field.

Healthcare

We can see a hell of a lot of difference in the healthcare industry after it has been subjected to the creative IoT solutions. With the execution of IoT in healthcare applications, people have become more health conscious than before and are keeping a track of their health in much easier ways.

“87 percent of healthcare organizations are planning to adopt IoT technology by the year 2019.” Healthcarenews.com

Read also :Top IoT App Development Tools 2018

The foremost objective of implementing IoT technology solutions in the healthcare system is to make it easier for the users to monitor their health. Right from personal healthcare to facilities in the healthcare buildings, it includes all sorts of elements.

Users can easily track their daily routine such as a number of miles walked, diet plan, etc. and on the other side, healthcare organizations can store this info of the patients in these applications for future references.

Energy

An average American spends nearly 3 hours on their smartphone every day. With IoT technology, app developers are able to generate better customer engagement in their applications.

By utilizing applications which support IoT, users can literally manage their smart appliances at home such as Air conditioner, refrigerator, etc by sitting somewhere far away.

There will be more than 1.5 billion devices managed by utility companies by the year 2020.

Retail

As far as logistics and transportation are concerned, IoT offers better assistance by providing exact location tracking so that the customers can easily track their orders in the application right from the moment of shipping to the successful delivery.

One fine instance of this sort of app of IoT in the retail industry is Amazon Go. It is a tech-based shopping store by Amazon.

Almost 87 percent of retail owners will deploy MPOS (Mobile point-of-sales) devices by the year 2021 allowing them to scan and accept payments through debit or credit cards anywhere in the store — Retail Vision Study

Are you ready for the change?

Mobile applications and Internet of Things will be going on the same track and in case you haven’t given any thoughts on the influence of IoT on mobile application development then let me tell you that you will certainly lag behind. This whole idea of smart devices thrives more on the idea of IoT more evolves where smartphones will be functioning as the main interface to communicate with IoT enabled devices.

Internet of Things could add an excellent value to our lives. Right now, there are various open source platforms that are providing helpful tools to build IoT-friendly applications and this contributes a lot to the growth of IoT environment.

With the consistent development in Internet of Things, mobile applications are stepping toward a better, smart, and well-connected world. It’s time for app developers to develop IoT-based applications where data will be transmitted by objects via sensors and received by the mobile application in real time.

Closing thoughts

For sure, we can say that IoT is a huge breakthrough in the app development field. The growth of IoT-enabled devices will have a great impact on the way we look at them. Currently, data security, computing performance, power consumption, etc. are some of the major areas of concern.

No doubt that IoT will open more opportunities for mobile application developers. Nevertheless, the change and growth are quite challenging and exhilarating at the same time.

Top IoT App Development Tools 2021

Posted on August 22, 2018 by Super Admin Testreveal

IoT and mobile app development have been two major buzzwords in the digital world for some time now. Nowadays as the impact of mobile app development is increasing in various sectors, many firms are exercising on this virtual power across industries including education, healthcare, smart homes, smart cities, automobiles etc.

The introduction of IoT automation technology, make businesses more capable and at the same time, it continues to make mobile apps simpler and more efficient for use in various ventures.

To fuel up the progressive trend of IoT, many of the software providers are coming up with tools that will help developers create novel IoT devices and applications.

Are you an individual, developers or a digital kind of a person? Then take a look at the infographic below to learn more about the top IoT tools.

An Introduction to IoT Mobile App Development

Posted on August 13, 2018 by Super Admin Testreveal

Introduction:

IoT technology connects smart devices and physical objects essentially to create a remotely controlled network for constant communication and data exchange. Powered with automatic capabilities, IoT connected devices can operate efficiently and remain accessible to users 24/7.

Such embedded network of ‘things’ includes electronic gadgets, analytics software & servers, mini-sensors and database management systems that cleverly enable objects to collect and share data.

Using IoT-enabled solutions, individuals can transform the existing state of dis-engaged elements into a much controlled and synchronized connections where interactions among different objects remain uninterrupted.

Internet of Things (IoT) has come a long way and evolved remarkably since its early days of toddling. With more sophisticated revolutions made in system optimization, IoT technology has grown to penetrate the mainstream application market effectively. Due to new protocols and disruptive improvements, IoT ecosystem has become more refined, cost-effective, energy efficient and, of course, more secure.

The IoT landscape is still maturing, expecting more development because of soaring demand in various industry-specific applications.

Smart Phone as an IoT-enabled gateway

It can be an undeniable argument that smartphone can be considered as the first primary and thoughtful version of IoT technology in real time. It processes user data via the internet using tangible mobile interface. Close to the actual concept of IoT, smart phone serves many purposes such as:

Parameters monitoring (monitoring health progress such as calories, heart rate, pulses, pressure, etc)
Location tracking (locating objects, destinations, people, navigation, etc)
Motion sensing (Responsive screen, screen rotation, motion-based interface control, etc)

Much of smartphone services and its apps are integrated with internet protocols which makes the device a perfect IoT gateway. With the help of active cell network or Wi-Fi, the device environment remains interactive and lively with its in-built sensors (GPS, motion sensing, sync, light intensity detection, etc).

Major Components of IoT

The term IoT is composed of two major words “Internet” and “Things”. Literally, this implies connecting things (objects and devices) through internet to build an auto-operated network. There are certain core components that define an IoT-powered architecture. Some of them are smart devices, sensors, energy, cloud, interface, gateway, etc.

Here we have shed light on some of the most crucial IoT components for you:

1. Interconnected Smart devices and Sensors

Devices and external sensors are lead components that form the significant part in IoT-enabled connectivity layer. The smart sensors collect the data from the surrounding ambience and transmit it to the next layer to process it further. Nowadays, due to evolved technologies, we have more advanced semiconductor technology that offers much more capable micro smart sensors used in various industry-specific applications.

Depending on its ability to measure physical parameters, here are a few commonly available sensors:

Temperature sensors
Humidity or Moisture level readers
Pressure sensors
Light intensity measurement
Proximity detectors
Thermostats
Room ambience controllers
Motion sensors
Vibration sensors
Heat optimizers
Infrared and RF signal sensors

Device Connectivity:

Since IoT network runs on low power, most smart devices and sensors feed on low-power wireless network such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-wave, ZigBee etc. This is why IoT encourages the development of low-power, low-cost units with compact and easy-to-control wireless capabilities.

Each wireless unit offers both pros and cons when compared on the basis of data transfer rate, power consumption and operational efficiency. The promising benefit of such IoT structure is its ability to ensure long battery life, increased efficiency and performance.

2. Gateway

IoT Gateway is an important component that helps manage bi-directional data exchange happening on different networks and protocols. It also essentially translates various network protocols and establishes interoperability of the connected devices in IoT network.

The unique aspect of IoT Gateways is that they are configurable and can pre-process the sensor-generated data locally before it is transmitted to the next stage.

The Gateway also offers data security for IoT networks by means of high-quality encryption techniques that work as a protective layer for the system against unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

3. Cloud: Distributed Database Management

Since IoT networks generate massive amount of data from users and devices, it needs reliable management. IoT cloud offers sophisticated real-time tools to collect manage and store the data. Owners and service operators can remotely gain access to their data in the moment of taking critical business decisions.

IoT cloud is composed of high-performance network of servers, which forms distributed database management systems, configured to speed-process the data coming from billions of connected devices, sensors, protocols, data storage systems.

4. Predictive Analytics

Having powerful analytics software embedded in an IoT network helps process and converts the valuable data from billions of smart devices and sensors into meaningful insights. This insight can be further interpreted to develop more effective system improvement strategies or deliver smarter solutions.

5. User interface

Users conduct a physical interaction with their user interface which is a visible, accessible part of the IoT-powered network. For enabling smooth, effortless interaction with IoT devices, IoT developers and UI designers must build a perfect, easy-to-use interface.

UI technology has potentially improved in offering more advanced design and simple touch panels to simplify the management of complex tasks. Smart homes are now equipped with smooth touch-control panels instead of hard switches.

Why Businesses are Adopting IoT

Technological advancements are taking place way too faster and their rapid-paced implementations across a larger scale of industries are transforming the way of doing business. IDC in its latest report suggests that the total global IoT investment has reached $772.5 billion in 2018. This is the clear indicator of how companies have already considered IoT mobile app development as an undeniable future.

For businesses constantly worried about surrounding marker competition, adopting trending innovations like IoT is a pragmatic choice. To sustain the monstrous competition built around technological solutions, businesses must see being adaptive as the only way to fight the chance of being extinct. The connected devices of IoT network offers realistic picture and detailed analytics of customer interactions which businesses can leverage to make timely decisions to enhance service quality and profitability.

Apart from these, there are a few more singular benefits offered by IoT connected devices. Here we have summed up a few good reasons why businesses thinking to revolutionize their enterprise model can turn to IoT and IoT app development company.

Real-time Insights from Connected Assets

Leveraging the power of interconnected IoT network, businesses can track and understand the functioning and performance of their assets. They know the location of their assets and when exactly the asset needs preventive maintenance. By predicting maintenance, the IoT system can automatically notify the operating people to rush to the site and control the situation.

Ambience data:

Through sensitive sensors, technicians are able to monitor the asset state based on the conditions of temperature, humidity, or other weather parameters. IoT apps help companies can predict maintenance cost and avoid possible threats to their assets.

Work planning and efficiency:

The data thus collected from devices will be sent to analytics to extend its meaning and effect. After processing the data, it becomes easy to plan ahead and make clear decisions about work, ultimately increasing operational efficiency.

Pro-active approach:

Since asset information is constantly monitored, companies can make pro-active strategy for upcoming maintenance, service improvement, procurement.

Better visibility and production:

Manufacturing companies can gain better control and visibility across various machinery, suppliers and plants by connecting all of them with IoT apps system and enable agile, scalable and cost-effective production units.

Decreased damages:

With the direct access to real-time data about equipment’s performance allows organization to assess and rectify the problem by significant margin before it causes a serious breakdown or other unthinkable hazards.

1) Increased Visibility of Business Functions

With myriad of IoT devices transmitting most valuable data internally, you have a greater opportunity to develop market awareness and boost performance scale of your enterprise. Using digital form of interactions in existing operating models, IoT offers enhanced business value and predictive capabilities to enable better visibility over core business processes and functions.

As a result, companies can gain transparency into how to use the collected data, which ultimately adds to efficiency and productivity

2) Staff Monitoring and safety management

IoT encompasses more diverse set of devices than you can possibly conceive. Practically speaking, organizations can strategically achieve better view of their worksite scenario by integrating advanced IoT wearables.

Staff workers can leverage wearable technology in precarious situations to allow companies to monitor the health, exact location and safety compliance of every employee. The data derived from the devices can help businesses refine their industry practices and policies, establish new regulations and adopt safe accident management standard.

3) Excellent aid for Cargo and Logistics

Cargo and logistics industry has a lot to gain from integrating IoT solutions as companies can get real-time data and insight about operational status of their fleet. Once connected inextricably into IoT network, Cargo companies can get accurate updates about minute interactions happening among customers and drivers and devices and operators.

The approach enabled by IoT apps can help monitor equipments as the travel on the road, track driver behaviour, predict its maintenance or accidental damages and ensure customers receive seamless experience through well-managed ETA.

4) Accurate perception about consumer’s choices and preferences

Abundant data and insights collected from connected IoT devices and sensors via IoT apps are what make companies evaluate their existing business model and build a refined strategy to create bigger influence on customers.

IoT network not only helps enterprises remodel their operations, but also blurs the age-old barrier between customers and brands. Cycling the data emanating from connected assets, businesses can grow resourceful to take smart judgement and intelligent decisions related to customer service improvement and product innovation.

5) Personalized Interactive experience

Addressing customer needs is the popular mantra for businesses to quickly to find themselves on the path to success. Using IoT as a core technology, IoT app developer can help businesses integrate interactive displays that provide real-time answers to customers’ queries. Through interactive displays, organizations can present their own set of products and solutions in a personalized way so that customers walk through their options and pick what matches close to their requirements.

Nike, the global footwear brand, has launched this solution to enable customers to use their phone for personalized experience. All you have to do is to point your device at any product in the store and use store’s interface, and your phone will show detailed information about the product and pricing.

6) Exemplary supply & inventory management

IoT apps and big data analytics can shake hands together to reform business model and introduce new approach for effective resource management. IoT solutions can be added advantage for emerging and medium-scale enterprises who wish to bridge the gap between demand and supply and empower their existing inventory management system.

IoT helps combine CRM and ERP of an organization and enable intelligent communication among devices to achieve superior goals of customer retention, timely delivery, and service consistency.

7) Transparent business with new opportunities

IoT has a lot more potential than what business enterprises initially considered. IoT mobile app development can produce more opportunities by changing the way customers and brands interact. In order to get best results, business must know the extent of IoT integration and grow more ability to adapt to innovative devices and sensors in a highly connected space.

Creating a well-controlled, secure and powerful nexus of millions of devices, IoT wave is perpetually creating new opportunities for major sectors like retail, healthcare, ecommerce, hospitality, manufacturing, security and more.

8) Revenue improvement

Integration of IoT apps help diminishes cost and increase more chances of generating newer revenue streams. According to tech market leaders, IoT has futuristic potential to save thousands of dollars often spent on business productivity alone and enrich the functioning of bottom line.

9) IoT sweeps through many industries

Another reason why IoT could drive your business to growth and success is its ability to touch and transform a wide range of industries. On the canvass of IoT mobile app development, you can paint the picture of any industry disruption you like including:

Retail
Household applications
HVAC power system
Manufacturing
Urban lighting
Agriculture
Healthcare
Security

IoT has answers and solutions for many problems that hinder the future growth of ambitious enterprises and organizations provided that you have engineered the best business-specific IoT solution in place to work for your business model.

IoT App Development Tools

The way Internet of Things is forging ahead in its capability to revolutionize numerous aspects of business and human life, we can say the impact of IoT connected devices is growing powerful.

This is why IoT mobile app development is an unstoppable market buzzed with a lot of opportunities for aspiring IoT app developers. However, IoT app developers must seek tools that actually mark the development process with swiftness, suitability and effective learning.

Thankfully, today’s avid IoT developers have brilliant range of open-source tools and platforms to build superior and goal-oriented IoT apps.

What are these tools and what should you know about them before you start with any of them?

Based on various development styles and industry challenges, here are top IoT tools that an IoT app development company can utilize to build successful apps:

1) Arduino

Arduino development kit is the best companion to emerging developers who aspire to be an established name in IoT development field. Using this tools, one can build an interactive app suitable to IoT economy.

Arduino stands out in its ability to offer software tools to IoT novices and enables cloud-based system so that developers can easily share messages across the boards. The system comes with its own Arduino based programming language & works best for users who lacks substantial background in app programming and wants to make a name in the IoT apps market.

2) Tessel -2

If you are into building basic-level IoT solutions and prototypes, Tessel-2 is equipped with numerous sensors and modules. It integrates with a number of modules such as RFID, camera, GPS and the accelerometer and more.

Since Tessel hardware device can be programmed using Node.JS, Java developers with expertise in Node.JS have a great opportunity to develop IoT apps. Tessel is known for offering a robust IoT platform.

3) Home Assistant

Home Assistant is perfect solution for developers who wish to master the space of smart home solutions and establish seamless connectivity between internet and living space of the house. Running on Python, Home Assistant suits modern IoT standards of IoT apps and is the best answer for interacting with digital hardware system for and tracking your device.

This tool can be also during internet outages and is reliable for data security. Its easy to use on Desktop and laptop, but it may not be the best option if you seek constant, uninterrupted connection.

4) Canopy

If you want to weave a viable structure of IoT cloud, the tool Canopy can be your apt companion. The platform helps you simplify the process of creating an IoT cloud where Canopy itself is a heroic cloud relay between IoT apps and IoT devices.

Canopy Cloud service is the server-side open-source component that you can run on any type of a Cloud platform.

5) Zetta

Built on None.JS, Zetta is a brilliant server-based platform that takes devices from the various brands to convert them all into API. Zetta is considered to be a pioneer in IoT mobile app development solutions and heavily uses cloud in order to be accessible and operable virtually from any location.

The best part about using Zetta along with Arduino is that users can benefit from marrying the best of reactive programming with WebSockets, which suits the requirements of data-packed IoT implementations.

6) Eclipse – IoT

Eclipse – IoT is perfect for an IoT app developer who is fond of building IoT hardware, Gateways and Cloud platforms. The IoT tool has a grand reputation of being a collaborative effort of various individuals and companies who are passionate about the development and implementation of IoT technologies.

If you explore the wide spectrum of services and projects accomplished by the Eclipse team, you will find that Eclipse IoT has potential to help you enrich technical expertise.

7) Device Hive

Device Hive is a popular cloud-based IoT apps development framework that enables machine-to-machine communications and allows users to create and connect their application effortlessly.

Like Home Assistant, Device Hive is promising in creating automotive system for your existing processes and is especially reliable for enabling smart home systems. This easy-to-use and handy, Device Hub empowers you with a remote-controlled operations.

8) Losant

Losant is a considerable option for developers who want to simplify IoT app development routine and get the most out of it. It could be your top-class platform that has admirable capability to help you build IoT solutions with speed, efficiency as well as security.

9) Platform IO

Platform IO is another solid cross-platform IoT development tools that contains a build system with a library manager and IDE. You can either port the IDE on tops of the Atom editor or use it as an installed plug-in.

What makes Platform IO stand out is that it is compatible with more than 200 boards and offers an impressive debugging integration solution.

10) IBM Watson

Close to AI, IBM Watson is an API that allows IoT developers to use a host of cognitive computing features in IoT apps. This innovative tool can be harnessed to predict the future requirements based on the current analysis of data it monitors.

IBM Watson not only simplifies the job of IoT developers with numerous services, but it also offers competitive advantage by employing chatbots and their power to process, analyse and understand natural language.

11) Dronesmith

Drones are one of the most significant and compelling topics of debate in IoT domain recently. Dronesmith offers a feasible rescue from these obstacles and helps IoT developers in many ways.

It has an in-built airborne computer, known as Luci, installed in drones. Using Dronesmith, an IoT app developer can easily develop custom drones based on pre-defined specifications.

As more companies and consumers take interest in smart approach and embrace IoT-connected devices, we observe the rising demand in IoT development. The main driving momentum for incredible IoT growth is provided by the expanding community and open-source IoT tools. The ambitious IoT developers can exploit these tools and platforms to achieve their dream of developing IoT apps and convert their distant vision into reality.

Things to Note While Designing an IoT App

For a couple of decades, IoT has been a scintillating topic of discussion for Tech vendors and developers alike. The main reason for the hype around IoT mobile app development solutions is its awe-inspiring calibre to transform the business landscape through technological capabilities and advanced cognitive abilities.

Another advantage that makes IoT a phenomenal lynchpin is its increased affordability.

However, in order to design a perfect structure of IoT apps, there are certain guideline and tips that IoT designers and business innovators should ponder sincerely to get the best out of this resurgent technology.

Research and explore before developing IoT apps

Before you draw towards the action of development, its important to first mull over the requirements and suitability of the IoT apps and future challenges it is going to bring.

The best way to gain the insight is to research in deep and explore the IoT market and understand how inter-connected things should really work.

Think about data management and analytics

The next step for designing an IoT app is the ingestion tier – which marries both infrastructure and software to enable data exchange and management. In this subsequent layer, you can think of all the ways to organize and receive the data coming from devices and sensors.

Following this is Analytics tier which entails the process of processing the data organized in the previously. Then comes the app used by end-users. For designing purpose, IoT app developer needs to focus on more on understanding the end-user experience and data analytics part.

Hardware compatibility of mobile devices

Building an IoT app should also involve checking the suitability and compatibility of mobile devices with IoT app. Be it IoT iOS app or android apps, the app’s overall performance depends on the type of hardware OS environment you have chosen.

A lot of precaution and considerations go into IoT development strategy when it comes to making it compatible for device hardware platform since the design rework may get expensive and tiring if the app does not function harmoniously as an IoT android app or iOS app.

Determine the scalability of apps

Over time, as businesses flourish in the market and technology evolves, a business would have to collaborate with an IoT designer or a suitable IoT app development company to figure out scalability options for apps. This is one of most crucial factors while designing an IoT app especially when project is aimed at putting bigger impact on wide consumer base.

Ensure the better security of IoT devices

As it has always been, the aspect of IoT system security is still questioned by world-spread businesses that expect zero tolerance to data loss and vulnerability. If adopted on a prodigious scale, IoT security becomes an essential factor freshly built IoT apps need to address.

Some of the strategic implementations to be taken to fight system vulnerability generically include:

Sturdy encryption methods
Robust yet user-friendly authentication features
Knowledge of underlying ecosystem of each device in use
Easy-to-use and clear security features
Understanding and protection of digital touch points of end users
Multilayered approach of building firmware protection
Security of each hardware component in place

IoT applications, as opposed to regular applications, conduct interactions with hardware and not humans, which mean the firmware used by IoT mobile application development experts should ensure proper security with frequent updates.

Recognize the difference between usual mobile apps and IoT apps

Mobile app we use today are focused on end users unlike IoT apps. Usually mobile app development revolves around a niche market and reaps responses based on a specific function. But IoT technology bases its functioning on objects and processes the communication across industries and systems.

It is therefore important to consider the future IoT-powered vision of fully automated smart home or the rise of smart city and other similar disruptions. IoT app developer should recognize the fact that IoT system straddles beyond mobile app technology and enables controlled communications with security and utility industries to facilitate larger operations such as efficiency measurement, energy consumption optimization, peak load management, etc.

Conjure the future picture over instant profits

If you have already set eyes on IoT mobile application development, conjure a big future picture of how IoT is going to be beneficial in long term. While the job of building IoT applications is quite onerous, the results you get will be impactful and help your business thrive down the future road. Think of a smart automated home blended technologically with an evolved version of smart city.

In a way, the technology is still in into embryonic mode and growing. We are likely to see more of IoT apps in terms of growth, performance and innovations in the coming years. Hence, keep the product open for future scalability to secure more benefits and stability in the market. Keep your vision about IoT app development futuristic and supple.

Choose the right developers for an IoT development team

Though listed at the last, this comes down as the primary job: collaborating with the right developers and making a stalwart IoT development team. Make sure the IoT app developer you choose has project-specific resources and hands-on knowledge to identify potential security risks and is versed in profound aspects and challenges of IoT development. Take a logical decision while emphasizing on quality and relevance and not price as you look for the competent leaders in the IoT market.

Impact of IoT in Mobile App Development

From the smallest of economies to the considerably larger scale of city areas, IoT is prepared to transform the landscape of anything that can be connected through internet.

The most interesting part of IoT is that it innovates our digital culture as how creative minds and tech enthusiasts from myriad business verticals have begun to explore the space of IoT-powered mobile app design and development.

What initially commenced as a thought has now inspired many IT market leaders to tap into this domain which can help develop solutions and products to actualize the powerful, automation of connected world. IoT-connected world.

Importance of IoT for mobile app developers

From an honest perspective, mobile app developers are amongst those who have immensely progressed in making IoT technology work in their favour. By exploiting the full potential of IoT in mobile app development technology, they have effectively unlocked the bigger market while catering to the rising expectations of tech-loving demographics.

IoT enables app developers to fuel mobile apps with extraordinary features and seamless controls, thereby equipping users with enjoyable convenience. For instance, users can remain connected 24/7 and can remotely control various devices and appliances through IoT apps on their smartphone.

How IoT impacts mobile app development space?

The following are the major impact we are likely to experience from IoT in mobile app development:

1) New opportunities, unusual power

IoT developers are most likely to meet new challenges that will drive them towards new opportunities of app development. With IoT offering great promises, businesses will take a leap of faith, knocking the doors of a capable IoT app development company to discover innovative solutions that connect them well with their customers.

As IoT grows and advances even more, mobile app developers will be able to build better apps that improve connectivity among people just like Uber.

2) The demand for more evolved skills

As the mobile apps rolled out by developers have vague future and limited attention span, to stay competitive in the relevant market, IoT-powered apps have to be adaptable to device functionality, smartphone platform and new updates. With apps, there is usually a big chance of being obsolete if a new technology arrives to change the game.

3) Five-tier IoT development process

Another considerable impact to notice is the segregation of the entire development process. Presumably, five-tier approach for multistage IoT development would be preferable. The process will encompass diverse stages based on device, gateway, data, analytics and application, thus making the development complete and mature.

4) Use of ready-to-deploy Third-party platforms

In order to save time spent on IoT mobile app development, it is advisable to opt for ready-made IoT platform that enables rapid deployment of apps. These third-party platforms are born-ready to interact and mingle with diverse range of smart objects to be connected in an IoT system. By 2022, the number tools in considered to increase from 120 million from 2017 to 44 million.

We already saw widely used IoT development tools that help accelerate development process. All developers need to do is to learn how to use APIs to connect to these readily available platforms.

5) Device Specificity

In IoT network, what matters most is app’s ability to remain compatible with the nature of device it is integrated with. It is therefore important for developers to make sure they know the exact functionality and tendencies about device environment they are designing the apps for.

Before embarking on building IoT apps, Software engineers must have profound insight into the technology of things connected in IoT as well as the ways to connect with the app.

6) Dawn of developers with dedicated IoT expertise

With IoT growing to resonate with the mainstream hybrid mobile app development market, soon there will be a demand for a much unified IoT approach and niche developers to build dedicated project-specific IoT expertise.

This signifies how the current trend of businesses expecting versatility instead of specialized IoT skills will fade away. There would be no one-developer-for-all lookout. When the technology reaches the pinnacle of maturity and usage, enterprises of any scale will emphasize the idea of hiring developers with specialized IoT knowledge.

IoT technology, thus, puts a larger impact on mobile app development industry, ready to pioneer the revolutionary trend.

7) Enhanced security strength

Of course, security has always been a big question for mobile app users who think mobile apps pose a constant threat to the data security in the existing online ecosystem. But as IoT expands in its strength and prevalence, it is most likely to influence the current status quo of security concerns.

IoT domain is greatly active and constantly updated, which will help an IoT app developer improve the defensive structure for mobile apps and create a mighty barrier to fight security threats.

Though device system can remain fairly accessible to developers as an entry gate, Data encryption and stronger authentication system will increase the overall protection of sensitive data by means of four tier IoT dev components.

Mobile is the main fuel

As businesses seeking lucrative opportunities are curious to dive into the IoT Ocean and connected things are becoming the future of mobile app development, IoT application development has increased potential to bloom in the space of enterprise-focused and consumer-oriented mobile apps. Since mobile devices offer superior control, immense convenience and technical compatibility for building IoT apps, it is unquestionable that mobile devices will be the major factor to fuel the IoT app development trends.

IoT Mobile Solutions (Android & iOS)

IoT mobile applications connecting a mobile device to various other smart devices and sensors mean a powerfully connected world with smarter control, monitoring and management. From enterprise businesses to consumers, IoT apps are transforming the way we experience and interact with devices. With IoT mobile solutions and development platforms, there are numerous possibilities of solving many puzzles with utmost security. Here are some of the IoT-powered mobile solutions you can build for Android and iOS device platforms.

Thinkable solutions across wide tapestry of devices

On the canvass of IoT mobile app development platforms, it is easy to build IoT mobile solutions for both Android and iOS. The technology can enhance the interactions with devices and enliven existing applications by giving it superior power and control. IoT developers can turn existing apps into IoT-enabled solutions by connecting them with diverse objects such as gadgets, sensors, devices, data management systems and cloud.

By making unthinkable thinkable, IoT technology partners help build perfect IoT solutions that deliver exceptional user experience. Through IoT hybrid mobile app development, mobile apps can be easily deployed to Android, iOS, Windows and MacOS X with an effortless single C++ codebase.

Proximity sensors and location tracking solutions

Despite GPS capabilities, IoT solutions can be built to detect proximity of connected objects or users without using mobile phone’s GPS tracker. Be it indoor or outdoor, precise user location awareness and events monitoring can be made possible for geometric zones for any physical location. Apps for Gadgets and Wearables

Read also : 10 Best IoT Development Tools 2021

IoT apps and ecosystem can work best for both gadgets and wearables. A lot of use cases have already been developed with incredible progress in the domain of IoT-enabled apps for gadgets and wearable devices.

By bringing the interactive capabilities between these gadgets and smart wearable devices, developers can harness the boundless power of IoT to create unforeseen potential for refreshingly surprising user experiences.

Monitoring and Predictive analytics solutions for healthcare

For healthcare domain, IoT app developer can help build a versatile app with an intuitive UI that connects the entire existing network of sensors, devices, gadgets and monitoring displays and deliver a solution.

The app can be versatile enough to perform its pre-defined capabilities across a range of device platforms including mobile, TV, Desktop or watch. If desired, the comprehensive IoT solutions can be enabled to collect medical data, generate alerts and interact with cloud to produce accurate predictive analytics. Such solutions can be customized to control gadgets or keep users informed of existing environment and biological changes.

Digital transformation for manufacturing industry

Thanks to core technologies like IoT mobile app development and AI, enterprise businesses can now conceive the implementation of digital transformation models on an industrial level.

By using automation insight as key enabler, IoT developers can help manufacturing industry reap maximum advantage of enhancing productivity and quality through highly monitored, properly controlled and streamlined IoT-based solutions. Manufacturing plants can avail IoT solutions that are proactive, robust and user-friendly and offer complete support for real-time sensor control and data monitoring & management.

Connectivity methods

To enable the consistent data flow between IoT apps and the congregation of devices, gadgets, internet and sensors, the developers can supply communication-empowering solution. The final product not only comes out as streamlined features, but also ensures seamless connectivity of various internet-connected components by means of communication protocols (Bluetooth, WIFI, REST etc.)

Data security

Now that IoT technology has progressed a lot and is still evolving exponentially, data security of IoT-connected devices has significantly improved. As you collaborate with a professional IoT app development company, it becomes easy for your organization to capitalize on their time-tested resources that ensure layered protection and encryption of user data. With enhanced data security standard made possible through strong authentication process and encrypted communication, IoT developers can design apps that communicate in real-time with clouds, sensors and other devices securely.

Cost of IoT App Development

IoT applications are essential for everyday activities like work life management, energy optimization, domestic lifestyle, transport and manufacturing industry. Based on the way IoT apps are advancing and developing our lives, we can say soon we all be as dependent on IoT-powered mobile apps as we are on conventional-style mobile apps. Looking at this promising scenario, businesses from diverse industries across the globe have elevated their interest in IoT app development, mulling over the thought of investing massively in IoT mobile app development services.

Therefore, while focusing on various aspects of IoT solutions, it is mandatory to discuss the cost estimation of IoT projects of many scales.

Influence of Preparative stage on cost

In this stage, the goal and main idea of the app are explored in details along with the benefits of the app and how it can be used by the end user when the product is finally ready to release.

In this stage, resources like essential hardware, platform, internet connectivity required to instigate the development process is calculated and discussed along with the features of the IoT app. one must also focus on possible issues and challenges that may arrive during IoT mobile app development. Hence, it is important to weight cost on these aspects right in the preparative stage

Make sure the developers engaged in the project have proper instructions and information to move ahead. Developers should be equipped with guideline enough to avoid the tedious, time-consuming corrections and iterations in the future.

Feature-dependency of IoT app development cost

Some of the features that may directly influence the cost of IoT app development mostly include geolocation, payments, synchronization, third party API integration, data encryption, auto learning feed, enhancements and content management system. For ensuring the cost efficiency, the IoT app developer tends to use the reusable components and the selected platforms for the purpose of development.

Scalability is another factor that drives the final figure of cost calculation. As IoT technology continues to expand and evolve, there is a big chance of the future enhancements and add-ons, which further augments the overall cost of IoT apps.

Cost estimation for different types of IoT apps

The cost of the IoT app varies according to the different features and technologies. The estimated total costs of different types of IoT apps are as follows:

Media- It starts from $ 10,000.
Infrastructure management- It starts from $ 25,000.
Environmental monitoring- It starts from $ 10,000.
Energy management- It starts from $ 27,000.
Manufacturing- It starts from $ 50,000.
Healthcare and medical systems- It starts from $ 30,000.
Home and building automation- It starts from $ 50,000.
Transportation- It starts from $ 25,000.
Consumer IoT apps- It starts from $ 35,000.
Management of smart systems and smart cities- It starts from $ 50,000.

The cost optimization through outsourcing

The cost of the mentioned apps depends on the geography location, experience and size of the IoT app development company. The best way to save money and time is by outsourcing the projects because the development partner of the IoT app project provides the necessary staffs required for the design, maintenance, conception and development of the app.

Total IoT development cost

The total aggregation o IoT development cost is attributed to the level of complexities as well. To justify this area, here is the cost slab for you to consider:

Simple development- It costs around $ 18,000.
Middle development- It costs around $ 18,000 to $ 24,000.
Complex development- It costs around $ 30,000.

Final costs of IoT app development

The factors upon which the cost of the IoT app depends entirely are hardware, infrastructure and the application:

Hardware– The cost varies according to the complexity of the hardware, i.e., more complex is the hardware, more is the cost. For example, the IoT device that uses smart locks, cameras, motion sensors and other smart technologies will cost higher than the simple and normal IoT app.
Support system-The IoT investment becomes expensive by the complex support systems provided for the security and safety of the users. Also, the implementation and development of the complex support system also adds to the investment. The factor of certification also adds to the monetary investment.
The Application complexity– The costs of IoT app development also depends on the complexity and size of the application. The application is the major factor that helps to run the device and therefore sufficient investment are done so that the apps run smoothly and provides the necessary benefit to the users.

Summary:

‘IoT’ the futuristic technology has incontestably taken the digital world by storm and changed the structure of mobile app development. By offering seamless connectivity through the network of various devices, sensors and gateways, IoT apps present in the smartphones and tablets are revolutionizing almost every sphere it touches, making the world around us smart, intelligent and more proactive than ever.

Gartner once predicted that IoT will see more than 26 billion connected things by the year 2020 – which is staggering. These things are not just limited to a few good devices and sensors. Instead, futuristically speaking, it has a broader perception of connecting smart homes, smart cars and smart cities in a cohesive, highly functional, extremely efficient model.

As for businesses, the best competitive advantage springs from the fact that customers are already down to using mobile apps for their routine chores. With that said, IoT mobile app development will also enable business enterprises to unleash more potential for interactive capabilities and personalized customer experience by affording the luxury of real-time data analytics.

With all this, IoT has definetly spread its wings tapping into diverse industries including healthcare, automotive, electronics appliances and manufacturing. Hoping that IoT continues to grow, businesses can roll up their sleeves for the upcoming future and collaborate with a renowned IoT app development company to propel their business growth model.

Read also : Top 7 IoT Trends That Will Change 2021

Now the only question left for today’s IoT development specialists is: How to create an effective IoT strategy to help businesses win?

Top 7 Reasons to Invest in IoT Automotive Apps

Posted on June 26, 2018 by Super Admin Testreveal

We are officially in the digital transformation era and the IoT devices have become one of the hottest in the industry. The automotive sector is the perfect fit for the IoT because this helps vehicles turn smarter. The speed with which development of vehicles are unfolding is partly due to the demand and the number of competitors in the IoT app development market. The sector is now looking at enhanced convenience, comfort, maintenance and transport safety.

Here are seven of the top reasons that justify investments in IoT automotive apps.

Natural partner to the concept of connected machines

One of the very recent and popular developments has been the Tesla automobile supported by the IoT. Way back in 2014 Tesla announced the rollout of a car that was supported by many IoT features. An app framework permitted developers to build apps that would work with the car. The car was loaded with features that offered information about the performance and the utilization of energy, braking effectiveness, Geolocation and a host of other useful information.

Cars have transformed into machines that work with advanced software

Cars are not more the typical mean machines that get tuned at a garage or workshop. They are advanced machines with latest software and automotive technology. As a result, modern day cars possess the capability to update the service center about a problem in the car, which will receive a response from the service center. Depending upon the need, the service center may call in the vehicle for servicing or may dispatch a team to carry out repairs or replacement of defective components.

Self-driving vehicles

In Europe, a convoy of self-driving trucks moved across borders as part of a challenge, though the trucks did have drivers onboard the vehicles. Computers and connectivity between the six trucks ensured that the trucks moved smoothly in a convoy across Europe to their destination safely, with drivers only taking over the driving at times. One of the advantages that were seen in this demonstration was the ability to conserve fuel and prevent accidents. The trucks were able to communicate to each other at high speed and maintain a very short distance with each other. This helped the driverless trucks to react quickly to the turns and obstacles on the road. With a smooth movement, the trucks were able to collectively cut down on fuel emission by as much as 10%.

Fixing problems remotely

Another famous example is also that of Tesla, where car owners received a fix over the air. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued two recall announcements. The problem related to a safety aspect that had a high risk of a fire breaking out. Here, Tesla’s cars were fixed over the air, with owners not having to drive them to a service center. The fixes happened without interrupting the routine of owners. The problem was resolved ‘over the air’ while the cars were parked in the garage at home or at a parking lot in the office.

Vehicle to Infrastructure technology will improve road safety

With a large number of cars, especially high-speed models on the road, it is necessary to have systems that help in preventing accidents with an advanced warning for preventing collisions. The Vehicle to Infrastructure technology that has been demonstrated in many vehicles is a case in point. This will help drivers with an early warning to prevent accidents. More often than not, the lack of reflexes or a split second delay is all that it takes for things to go wrong on the road. With V2I technology this is all set to change.

Telematics to prevent car thefts

While engine immobilizers have been around for quite some time, car thieves have found a way to beat the technology, indulging in sensational car thefts of high-end vehicles. Telematics and IoT working together are expected to offer solutions to prevent car theft by pinpointing the locations of vehicles and controlling access to the vehicles. The advanced apps that are finding their way to the market will make it nearly impossible to steal a car in the near future.

A Better connected world

The world and all the devices are slowly getting connected into an intelligent grid to improve performance and cut down on time spent for individual actions. This massive integration is slowly happening and it will not be very long before intelligent cities will have a vast grid of integrated and interconnected devices, from street lights to appliances, to wearable devices and diagnostic tools. And in this connected world, automotive apps will find an important place. This will make it easier for technology to transmit an occupant’s expected time of arrival. This will find greater use among the hospitality industry and also among individuals who can then plan accordingly. Route changes for vehicles involved in medical emergencies will become a lot easier depending on the information collected from all connected vehicles in moving traffic.

Final Thoughts

The speed of developments in IoT automotive apps makes the future exciting. Cars have transformed from simple vehicles of transportation to infotainment packed vehicles that are a lot smarter and connected. It would have been hard to imagine a few decades back that a navigation app can help drivers to smoothly find their way to any place in the world, without having to know the local language.

The turn by turn instruction has transformed the way people reach a destination. Similarly, the future is exciting in IoT automotive apps and it certainly makes a lot of sense to invest in the apps. The performance of vehicles can improve up to a point, but beyond a point, it would not be possible to make it any better. But the experience inside the vehicle and the various aspects of safety and convenience can be improved as technology moves into the next generation. Investing in IoT automotive apps will prove to be a wise decision, considering the demand and the shape of the future.

How is IoT Changing the Face of Industrial World?

Posted on May 21, 2018 by Super Admin Testreveal

The industrial world is going through a digital revolution and IoT is making a remarkable change over the past few decades. All kind of services in various industries are getting smarter with sensors as well as intelligent controls. Using the advanced technologies, the data is being used in a better way to improve operations, minimize expense, enhance productivity and importantly offering a safer workplace.

The idea behind the use of IoT is to establish a good connection between independent entities such as robots, machines, and humans to get the best of all. Even when more or less all the industries are witnessing some positive changes with IoT, certain sectors such as education, hospitality, advertising, automobiles as well as manufacturing is undergoing some serious changes.

Let us have a look at the impact that is made by IoT in the main industry platforms:

Manufacturing Industry:

With IoT, the typical machines are now getting replaced with innovative systems that offer unparalleled performance with sensors and intelligent controls. Data is easily transferred between the machines and storage and retrieval of data is taking place easily over the internet.

Here are some key changes in the manufacturing industry with IoT:

The time of service of a machine is predicted in advance avoiding an unexpected breakdown.
The intelligent power solutions are helping to get things done in minimal time and effort and saves the power for future
Data from the machines is used wisely and circulated among the team to find solutions in a quick mode
IT-optimized smart manufacturing helps to use the staff in a more productive way.

Automotive Industry:

This particular industry is witnessing an absolute revolution with connected vehicles. The artificial intelligence and sensors are in fact taking the driver’s seat and the touch of a button is giving you everything you need inside a car. Here are a few IoT trends in automotive sector:

Connected vehicles: Traffic congestion is eased off to a great extent with vehicles connecting each other
Innovative sensors: The car’s operation is regularly monitored and alerts are provided to assure safety and security
Driverless cars: Last but not the least, cars without drivers are in the market now where artificial intelligence is replacing humans

Healthcare Industry:

Unlike any other industry, IoT has a remarkable value when it comes to health care industry. The right mix of IoT features and medical devices can help get the best of science advantages while saving lives of many people. The IoT apps help with preventive interventions and constant monitoring and providing personalized care which is the most important.

Some key benefits of IoT on healthcare include:

Wearable devices: The instant feedback with such devices helps to prevent emergencies
Remote healthcare: The healthcare apps helps patients with real time data access and analysis and timely notifications on check ups
Patient centric care: Services are offered depending on the specific care needed for the patient

Education Sector:

With availability of affordable IoT enabled devices, teachers, students as well as school administrators are getting the better out of today’s technology. This is causing serious changes in the way boring classroom sessions are slowly changing into interactive classrooms where students are craving for more learning.

Here are some key areas where IoT helps educational sector:

Safe learning environment: The options such as sensors and empowered cameras monitor and secure students within the premises.
Engaged learning: The advanced options such as interactive whiteboards keeps students engaged for a long time
Support for special need students: IoT enabled classrooms helps to overcome their physical and cognitive limitations
Quality school administration: Practical solutions with quick data storage, tracking and analysis saves space and time while improving overall efficiency

Retail World:

We saw that online shopping trend is taking over the retail shopping and IoT is gradually changing this trend with the benefits of both in a single mode. The augmented and virtual reality headsets are going to be the key to help the customers to make their selection from variety of choices. In the case of outfits, you can simply try hundreds of outfits in a few minutes and go for the one that suits you the best. The selection can be made from larger catalogues unlike the retail shops but getting the feel of actual retail shopping.

Construction Industry:

Smart buildings are the best sign that internet of things is making a drastic impact on the construction industry. In addition to impressive occupant comfort, they are helping to save costs and offer unprecedented energy. The improved physical security is the highlighted benefit of smart buildings equipped with IoT apps. The protection of buildings can be established in real time with sensor cameras that works round the clock. The official buildings are making use of these features to avoid the possible potential security breach that can cause them huge.

Here are a few benefits for construction and real estate industry with the influence of IoT:

Efficient building operations
Improved margins for building developers
Good tenant relationships
Innovative revenue generation opportunities

Hospitality Industry:

The experience of people abroad and on air is witnessing a drastic change with the influence of IoT. Custom meals with their personal preferences can be made well in advance before they fall hungry. The facial recognition features at the place of stay helps managers to identify the person and treat them with all honour. Personalization is the key when IoT takes over as guests can be provided with automated temperature and light settings of their preference upon arrival.

Here are some key benefits of IoT in hospitality:

Guestroom automation
Location based suggestions
Key-less entry with mobile apps
Predictive maintenance

Advertising Industry:

With an increase in the wearable devices with IoT, advertisers are finding it really easy to improve the reach of their customers. The product or service promotions can be circulated among the potential users at a comparatively faster rate. The advertising professionals are considering the smart products as a better screen or channel to convey their information.

As smart devices can easily monitor a person’s behaviour pattern and areas of interest, a wise professional can grab the opportunity at the right time. Moreover, the advertising can be tailored to encourage conversions. Effective ad campaigns are built over the IoT platforms in the global digital space.

Engineering Industry:

IoT creates a lot of opportunities in the engineering industry and the professionals are turning more creative and facing new challenges each day. As more and more connected devices are in demand every day, the professionals get chance to explore what they have learned in the span or think out of the box to come up with even more exciting solutions.

According to IDC research, IoT market is expected to hit $1.7 trillion by the year 2020. In order to give a good competition in your industry, it would be a wise idea to go for IoT apps. It may seem optional now but if you set back now, it would be too late for you when IoT becomes an integral part to survive. IoT app development is not much of a big deal now as there are lots of enthusiasts around who can handle the job for you with ease. Go for an mobile app development company who can provide high quality end products within the stipulated time frame.

How can the Market Potential of IoT Revolutionize the Retail Industry ?

Posted on March 14, 2017 by Super Admin Testreveal

‘Internet of Things’ is a network of devices that are connected to the internet. It is used to search any info, upload images and connect with people. Since these products are connected to the Internet, they have their own IP addresses and can connect with each other in order to automate tasks. IoT is basically the interaction between humans and machines that can unlock possibilities.

Key features of IoT

1) Can enable the services across several fundamental sectors in the economy
2) The needs of the customers are met through global distribution models and continuous global services.
3) It provides an opportunity to new commercial sectors to support mass global deployment
4) Value-added services will become the main factor to income and mobile operators are bringing in new capabilities to make this happen.
5) Mobile apps are leverging the IoT.

Building Blocks of IoT

The multiple building blocks of IoT are connected to operate and communicate:

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1. Application and User Interaction

This generally involves the collaboration between people, applications and business processes.

2. Cloud Server

Cloud computing is the only platform that can support massive and unpredictable data. Cloud server supports IoT by providing network, storage and power. The massive data generated by IoT can be analysed within the cloud with proper data solutions.

3. Sensors

Sensors are devices that detect a wide variety of information and generate output as data to send via wireless technology. The IoT sensors are called as node that collects information and sends it through communication protocols like Bluetooth, Zig Bee, Z-wave, Wi-Fi and also, by wired communication.

4. IoT Gateway

IoT Gateway acts as a bridge between Internet and objects. They also provide the secure channel required for the transmission of data and usually run Real-Time Operation Systems (RTOS).

5. Connectivity(Network)

Internet connectivity is used with the connected device or with the connected hub, base station or the smart phone.

6. Energy-Efficiency

Many devices in IoT might be difficult, dangerous and costly in terms of charging or replacement of the battery. Therefore, they are operated for a year or are able to wake up only periodically to relay data.

7. Security

Data security is a critical component in case of IoT since it deals with many confidential and case sensitive data.

The way consumers live, work, and play is changing and is reshaped each day with the connected devices. Use of intelligence and connectivity to everything we use can produce enormous amounts of data that companies can use for:

• Improving their operations
• Creating new ways of doing business
• Better ways to serve their customers

The growth of IoT is becoming a reality faster than we can imagine. Retailers who hesitate to use them are opening ways for promoting other competitors to swoop in and capture the market.

The IoT movement provides the retailers opportunities in different critical phases like:

• Customer Experience
• Optimising Supply Chain
• New channels and revenue stream

Customer Experience

IoT provides an opportunity for retailers to develop a vastly improved ecosystem in the industry. It connects with the digital world allowing real-time interaction with consumers both inside and outside the retail store.

The increasing demand of smart phone will be a platform for these interactions. This is either done through location-based beacon technology, which retailers use to interact with customers directly as soon as they enter the store. Apple’s iBeacon technology is already used by brands like Lord & Taylor, Hudson Bay, mobile marketing platform called Swirl etc. to deliver promotions to their customers.

By the interaction acquired through IoT, retailers can leverage the data to improve the customer experience. The brand named Hugo Boss has already started using heat sensors in their clothing store to track the movement of the customers. This will help them to arrange products in the right way according to the high-traffic areas.

Optimising Supply Chain: In more complex supply chains and increasing digital channels, the connected devices and products provide the retailers the opportunity to optimise certain operations. For example, RFID (Radio-frequency identification) Technologies can improve the precision of inventory tracking by using the electro-magnetic fields to identify and track objects.

Integrating IoT can also reduce costs and help in improving store operations. Lighting and temperature control within the store can be maintained using sensors to provide customer support and more cost effective energy use. Using sensors, many of the functions that employees currently perform manually, such as tracking inventory, changing prices tags items can increase the store experience.

Creating News Channels and Revenue Streams

The news system of IoT provides new opportunities to the retailers to create new revenue systems. Products such as household appliances, comfort products, home security, health and wellness etc. are becoming a main part of the IoT system.

Lowe’s, a store for home décor and appliances have launched a new platform called the Iris platform that can communicate with different devices like Z-Wave etc. This was designed with an open interface where the manufacturers could integrate their products. Home Depot’s Wink and Staples’ Connect are other platform examples that use the IoT management system.

How to make IoT a Reality in the Retail Industry?

At the beginning, you may find it difficult to move on with the Internet of Things strategy. It might be hard to accommodate a new device into the existing complex IT infrastructures. In order to lay foundation of IoT support, you need to mainly concentrate on two areas:

1. Technology
2. Organization

Technology

Technical capabilities are critical for IoT functions. To get the maximum out of the IoT devices, IT firms will have to develop existing investments in key areas such as analytic infrastructures, customer-facing problems etc.

Applications

1) Development and debugging tools
2) App factories
3) API management strategies to provide the business with API and visibility capabilities
4) Embedded operating system

Organization

A well-organized company with the right culture, talent, governance and organizational structure is one of the most important ways to drive IoT strategy. IT and technology should work together to leverage the technical aspect of IoT.

Key organisational elements

• Clear understanding of the business strategy
• Approach that promotes impact and potential benefits of IoT
• IoT enabled solutions should be designed and implemented with business needs in mind
• Repeated testing

Technological Challenges for IoT

• Device Management
• Device diversity and interoperability
• Integration of data from multiple sources
• Data volume and performance
• Flexibility and evolution of applications
• Data Piracy

Examples of IoT In Retail Industry

IoT provides retailers with a whole lot of new experiences; but, the fundamental objective remains the same as that of the traditional retailing industry. Wearable’s form a part of the Internet of Things using bluetooth, devices like Smart watches or other devices that connect to iPhone/Android uses internet apple watch, glasses etc. which can be connected to the smart phones and any sort of data can be transferred between the devices.

Some of the examples where IoT was used include:

1) Rebecca Minkoff used smart mirrors in dressing rooms

To bring out the actual concept of a connected store, Rebecca has introduced smart mirrors in her in-store dressing rooms. The items in her store contain RFID tags which help in the recognition of an item. The product details can be pulled up to the smart mirror which shows the different style of the item with the available size and colours.

2) ‘Target’ has now introduced beacons for shoppers

Across around 50 stores target has introduced the usage of beacons to make hyper-local content accessible to shoppers via ‘Target Run’. The customers who have downloaded the target app can connect it to the bluetooth and receive notifications of products as push-notification.

3) Amazon launched dash button for Dash Replenishment Service

The dash replenishment service uses sensors built into devices like washing machines, pet feeders etc. to automatically reorder placement products. Through the new service, Amazon aims at making commerce so seamless for their customers.

4) Ralph Lauren’s PoloTech Shirt tracks Heart Rate and Calories Burned

Ralph Lauren has introduced Polo-tech t-shirt, a smart workout shirt that monitors the vital activity stat of the wearer in real-time. The black-box filled with sensors that are snapped into a place near the rib cage will allow syncing the data to the iOS app. This will allow the customers to track the biometrics and also to calculate the data of their daily workouts.

IoT challenges for retailers and the future journey

In 2016, according to IDC, the amount spent on IoT was at $737 billion and the forecasted rate that it would reach is about $1.29 trillion in the coming years. Currently, IoT is seen on enterprises with transportation, manufacturing and utilities.

The most difficult thing a company has to manage is how to overcome, analyse and act relevantly on the data connectivity with different devices. Simply collecting the data is not just enough but, the retailer has to transform it into useful information.

At this starting stage, the main thing retailers need to realise is that IoT is not just about sensors and connectivity, but is the output got from a business by creating new experiences. The true transformation occurs when you start exploring through the network of IoT strategy with your network of customers, suppliers, assets and extended ecosystem.