With over 41 million active Internet of Things (IoT) devices across the globe, rapid advancements in disruptive technologies and new business models are pushing technology providers to adapt their connectivity strategies. Moreover, this growing web of smart devices and systems is evolving constantly with new advancements in electronics miniaturization, cloud computing, and data analytics. Now, challenges like optimizing subscriber identity module (SIM) logistics, cybersecurity, network costs, 5G mobile private networks, power consumption, and battery lives hamper growth within the IoT ecosystem.
Amid this revolution, Frost & Sullivan’s recent IoT and Edge Technologies Think Tank delved into the fascinating realm of Top 10 Strategic Imperatives in IoT and Edge.
TOP 5 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES REVOLUTIONIZING IOT
- Embedded SIMs (eSIMs) and integrated SIMs (iSIMs)
- Artificial intelligence (AI) management in IoT technology solutions
- Cybersecurity in IoT devices
- Cloud-native IoT platforms
- Low power wide area networks (LPWANs) and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) technologies
For detailed growth strategies and expert perspectives, click here.
Here, the following growth experts collaborated to share their views on transformation drivers, challenges, disruptive technologies, and emerging opportunities in the global IoT ecosystem: Renato Pasquini, Growth Expert, Vice President, and Global Program Leader, IoT and Edge at Frost & Sullivan and Cecilia Pérez, Growth Expert and Senior Research Analyst at Frost & Sullivan
Gain valuable perspectives from these experts by clicking here to access the recorded session of this Think Tank.
- Simplifying SIM Card Logistics: The logistics of SIM card management in IoT are increasingly complex, as intelligent devices require seamless global connectivity and the ability to switch easily between network profiles. eSIM and iSIM solutions address these challenges by enabling remote provisioning, reducing dependency on physical SIM cards, and allowing multiple profiles, thereby streamlining connectivity for IoT applications.
Companies to Action in eSIM and iSIM technologies – Thales (Instant Connect), Kigen, and Onomondo (softSIM technology).
- Building AI-Ready IoT Systems: Many IoT projects lack comprehensive AI and data management. This restricts the ability of enterprises to effectively automate workflows. As a result, IoT companies feel the pressure to keep pace with new developments in generative AI (GenAI) and edge AI for processing sensitive data, minimizing network congestion, decreasing the risk of data breaches, and enhancing customer service.
Companies to Action delivering AI-first IoT solutions – Amazon (Rufus, Alexa, and Amazon Pharmacy) and Microsoft (Azure OpenAI Services).
- Integrating Advanced Security Frameworks: IoT security is essential for safeguarding devices and critical infrastructure against cyberattacks, as cybersecurity becomes politically contentious. Now, Frost & Sullivan finds that with ever expanding IoT networks, 36% of organizations use IoT security hardware, while 33% implement security software that focuses on data protection, access control, and intrusion prevention.
Companies to Action enhancing cybersecurity in IoT devices – AT&T (managed cybersecurity services), Microsoft (Azure Sphere), and HPE Aruba Networking (AI-powered networking security).
- Enabling Smart IoT Visualizations: Cloud-native IoT platforms are well poised to help businesses address challenges in technology integration, complexity, and infrastructure/application visibility. These platforms aid regulatory compliance, streamline cellular technology integration, and provide real-time dashboards for data-driven decision-making.
Companies to Action developing enhanced IoT managed connectivity platforms – 1NCE, Telit Cinterion (OneEdge), and Emnify (IoT SuperNetwork SatPlus).
- Optimizing IoT Networks and Device Connectivity: LPWAN technologies are fostering innovative business models like network-as-a-service (NaaS) and platform-as-a-service (PaaS), helping providers reduce network expansion costs. Now, strategies include crowdsourcing, open-source collaboration, asset leasing, and hybrid terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks are well positioned to future-proof provider growth.
Companies to Action minimizing IoT network costs – EchoStar Mobile, Everynet, and UnaBiz.
“The IoT and Edge industry is facing challenges like the lack of AI in IoT systems, cyberattacks, and complexity in technology integration. To thrive, industry players must collaborate across sectors, innovating value propositions, business models, and creative solutions to unlock new opportunities.” – Renato Pasquini, Growth Expert, Vice President, and Global Program Leader, IoT and Edge at Frost & Sullivan.