Ever since the first website was built, the world has constantly been increasing its connectivity network into our present-day internet world, where virtually everything can be connected. With the Internet of Things (IoT) taking shape, we’re seeing another Internet revolution brewing just below the surface, and you might just miss it if you’re not keen.

Consider these predictions from the IoT world:

2017 is shaping up to be the biggest year in the IoT industry, and why not, given how fast the industry is growing? Being on the frontlines of this revolution means being better placed to capitalize on the gains promised. However, the first step is knowing where the bell tolls. Read on to learn more.

  1. Voice assistants for product sales

Amazon has had immense success with Alexa and Echo, and given their penetration of the mass market worldwide, Echo has made its way into the hands of the most unlikely consumers. This trend is on the rise, and while Amazon enjoys a first-mover advantage, Google Home has not been left far behind. Microsoft’s Cortana is also moving along quite nicely. These products have revolutionized sales and innovation, and have powered deep digital integration given the companies’ extensive experience in artificial intelligence, big data analysis, and machine learning.

  1. Smart City to replace Smart Homes

Smart homes, while first on the list, are simply last year’s news being made better this year. However, major municipalities are not looking into Smart Cities, where the IoT can be leveraged in products and services to raise the standard of living, reduce costs thereof and encourage safer living. Watch out for smart lighting, on-demand services, and connected apartments as part of this movement.

  1. Extinction of hardware-based hubs

Just a few short years ago, hub-based ecosystems were the in-thing. However, with the proliferation of virtual assistant technologies, these hubs are on the path towards extinction. This is happening for two main reasons:

 

  1. Smart Home becomes mainstream

With the success of Echo by Amazon, smart home technologies are more readily accessible to the average consumer. Also, there are better products on the way from Smart Home developers, including better support and easily usable technologies. You don’t have to be a tech-brain to use your smart home; that’s where we’re headed. As IoT companies work hard to better understand and fulfill their consumers’ needs and preferences. These tools are able to offer real value to consumers.

  1. Voice becomes the newest User Interface

Today, we can see Alexa voice recognition systems by Amazon working successfully to command Echo’s speaker, which introduces a new and much easier method for consumers to interact with their electronic devices: voice. Even though Apple’s Siri came into the market more than five years ago, Alexa’s voice ‘skills’ are more capable of replacing your touch screen user interface altogether, given some time. Alexa’s wealth of connected devices is increasing and you will soon be able to connect even non-Amazon products, like your car.

Conclusion

With the IoT developing exceedingly fast, you can help yourself stay ahead by following IoT top influencers so that you always have the latest news as well as actionable perspectives. As you adopt some of these technologies, you will be able to find ways to improve your own life and make the Internet of Things work for you and your business always.