ABI Research's latest data on the Internet of Things (IoT) shows that there are more than 10 billion wirelessly connected devices in the market today; with over 30 billion devices expected by 2020.
ABI Research's latest data on the Internet of Things (IoT) shows that there are more than 10 billion wirelessly connected devices in the market today; with over 30 billion devices expected by 2020.
"The emergence of standardized ultra-low power wireless technologies is one of the main enablers of the IoT, with semiconductor vendors and standards bodies at the forefront of the market push, helping to bring the IoT into reality," said Peter Cooney, Practice Director, ABI. "The year 2013 is seen by many as the year of the IoT, but it will still be many years until it reaches its full potential. The next five years will be pivotal in its growth and establishment as a tangible concept to the consumer.”
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Cellular, RFID, and many other wireless technologies are all important to drive IoT growth. The long term expansion of the market will be dependent on wireless technology becoming invisible so that the consumer will be oblivious to which technology is used and only know that it works.
"Today, hub devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are pivotal in enabling the IoT ecosystem and will continue to be an essential building block," added Cooney. "Future growth, however, is driven by node or sensor type devices and by 2020 these will account for 60 percent of the total installed base of devices."