How Are the Fundamentals of IoT and Edge Technologies Evolving to Keep Pace with Digital Transformation?
The Internet of Things (IoT) has rapidly evolved from a mere technological concept to a pervasive force that seamlessly integrates connected devices, embedded technologies, network infrastructure, and edge environments. By enabling multiple smart objects to communicate, exchange data, and derive insights in sync, this is facilitating more complex workloads, automation, and rapid decision-making at the edge. Now, as the demand for robust and scalable IoT solutions skyrockets, cross-industry providers are coming together to develop massive IoT deployments that empower the future of smart cities, autonomous vehicles, telehealth, intelligent manufacturing, precision agriculture, smart grids, and more. This in turn is opening the doors to a new generation of IoT applications, platforms, and services – Which disruptive technologies will help your organization better manage, orchestrate, and design innovative IoT networks of the future?
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Further, as the ecosystem advances with new developments in embedded SIMs (eSIMs), artificial intelligence (AI)-driven edge processing, and low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs), organizations feel the pressure to prioritize IoT security, managed platforms, and sustainability applications. Therefore, the following drivers are commanding maximum provider attention:
- AI and Generative AI (GenAI): For analyzing vast amounts of data, automating workflows, and enhancing the speed and accuracy of decision-making, leading to improved operational efficiencies and safety.
- Mobile Private Networks and Multi-Access Edge (MEC) Computing: For high-performance connectivity with low-latency, that processes data near the source of generation and mitigate the delays associated with cloud-based analytics.
- Embedded SIM (eSIM) and Integrated SIM (iSIM) Technology: For better connectivity and the ability to switch between network providers without physical SIM cards.
- IoT Managed Connectivity Platforms: To simplify the management and orchestration of IoT devices across various networks through centralized dashboards.
- IoT Security: To protect smart devices and applications from cyberattacks by leveraging secure boot, encryption, and AI-driven threat detection.
- 5G RedCap: For providing connectivity to massive IoT applications.
Which emerging verticals have the highest potential for massive IoT, and how can providers position their offerings to capitalize on these opportunities?
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Revealed: Best Practices in IoT and Edge Technologies
Tracking and implementing best practices are crucial for staying competitive and ensuring long-term success in IoT amid these transformational headwinds. Today, with the rise of private 5G networks, providers feel the pressure to innovate and facilitate massive IoT deployments and mission-critical applications that require ultra-reliable, low-latency connectivity. To that effect, Frost & Sullivan has identified the following best practices, partnership opportunities, and technology strategies to help industry incumbents in IoT and Edge technologies catalyze product innovation, maximize customer value, and foster competitive advantages:
- Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC): The rise of edge applications, AI, and machine learning (ML) is poised to create new opportunities in MEC worth $16,282 million by 2025. Further, the deployment of 5G technologies, advancements in infrastructure hardware, and new business models are supporting localized processing and real-time applications thereby driving the demand for next generation MEC solutions with added scalability.
Best Practices in MEC
Verizon‘s comprehensive MEC portfolio stands out for its flexibility, versatility, and robust features. By focusing on mobility, security, and connectivity, the company successfully delivers technology solutions that support mission-critical IoT applications with ultra-low latency and accelerated processing. Additionally, its ability to provide innovative value-added services and fortified security measures sets Verizon apart from other competitors in this space.
- IoT Hardware: Hardware components like chipsets, gateways, and modules are fundamental to the development of massive IoT since they serve as the brains behind connected devices. By enabling connectivity, managing data flow, and integrating sensors/communication protocols into compact units, these hardware elements are coming together to give rise to end-to-end IoT solutions.
Best Practices in IoT Hardware
Semtech is a leader in IoT hardware, offering solutions like LoRa® technology, cellular IoT modules, high-performance IoT platforms, and gateways that address client needs for cost-effective and remote connectivity. The company’s hardware portfolio enables massive IoT applications across sectors like smart cities, agriculture, and mobility. Further, by combining LoRa with cellular bandwidth, Semtech successfully simplifies IoT development, scalability, and ease of deployment for end users.
- Digital Technology Platforms: The implementation of MEC infrastructure presents numerous challenges like identifying enabling technologies, facilitating an intelligent edge in telecommunications networks, addressing the lack of standardization, and maximizing interoperability. This positions technology platforms as key enablers of digital transformation.
Best Practices in Edge Computing
Intel excels in developing edge reference architectures, MEC platforms, and software for different use cases by partnering with multiple telecom operators. Emphasizing AI, advanced 5G technologies, and autonomous edge computing, the company differentiates itself with frequent high-tech innovations. Additionally, Intel’s Smart Edge portfolio supports telecom operators and enterprises with comprehensive edge computing solutions, including hardware, software, and consulting services, curated for both on-premises and network edge deployments.
- Embedded Computing: Speed is critical when deploying new technologies that enable IoT applications. This urgency is driving enterprises to explore innovative platforms for rapidly developing IoT systems. Now, implementing IoT at the edge while utilizing the cloud for data transmission necessitates complex integrations, adding layers of challenge to both development and deployment processes.
Best Practices in IoT Enablement Platforms
Losant‘s flexible and user-friendly enterprise IoT platform simplifies the complexities of managing diverse technologies. It enables secure connectivity and scalability for millions of devices, transforming real-time data into custom user experiences. By seamlessly integrating edge compute, devices, data visualization, workflows, and user experiences, Losant bridges the gap between operations and IT, reducing IoT deployment costs and complexity while helping enterprises achieve IoT success.
- IoT Managed Services: As IoT evolves, businesses are grappling with legacy infrastructure interoperability, limited in-house experience, high failure rates of IoT initiatives, and security concerns. This means that technology providers have the opportunity to develop comprehensive managed services that enhance IoT outcomes, thereby helping enterprises navigate these challenges. These services will prove essential to foster new partnerships, address regional disparities, and deliver equitable infrastructure.
Best Practices in Managed IoT Services
KORE Wireless simplifies IoT adoption with its comprehensive portfolio of connectivity solutions and analytics services. Its KORE One platform excels in subscription and network management, giving the company a competitive edge. By focusing on reducing IoT complexity, KORE addresses customer pain points throughout deployment, enabling clients to focus on innovative applications. The company’s strategic shift from connectivity to full IoT services, backed by partnerships and acquisitions, further strengthens its value proposition.
Which analytical tools will help your organization identify best practices and potential strategic partners to strengthen your IoT and Edge initiatives?
In conclusion, as IoT and Edge technologies continue to revolutionize industries, understanding and adopting best practices is essential for businesses aiming to harness their transformative power. By prioritizing innovative solutions, organizations can capitalize on growth opportunities and position themselves for success in the world of connected and intelligent devices.
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