‘The internet of things’ has been bandied about in pretty much every panel discussion, roundtable or technology conference. But while machine-to-machine (M2M) computing is gaining a lot of traction, the practice of connecting previously individual machines to the net is set for an explosion.
According to the ‘M2M Adoption Barometer’ report by Vodafone there will be over 10 billion connected machines by 2018, which is in stark comparison to the 4.4 billion connected machines for this year.
Machine-to-machine computing is when components, appliances or electronics are connected to the internet or each other, to form a large network of computers. A typical example would be smart televisions, or an internet-connected fridge which will automatically order more milk once you run out of stock.
The report also provided an insight into consumer electronics from 600 executives involved in setting M2M strategy in seven key industries across 14 countries – which is gained a lot more prominence in the work place.
“The consumer electronics sector is at the forefront of a shift from the warehouse to the living room. This uptake is being fuelled by the use of M2M in connected devices such as smart televisions and games consoles. The research shows that nearly three quarters of consumer electronics companies will have adopted some form of M2M by 2016, whether for new products, logistics or production,” Vodafone said in the report.
Tony Smallwood, Head of Machine-to-Machine at Vodacom Business, said in a media statement that it is clear that the adoption of M2M is gaining a lot of traction.
“This year’s report leaves no doubt that momentum is accelerating as companies and public sector organisations begin to realise the commercial potential of the connected machine eco-system. This technology is transforming whole industries as organisations find new ways to operate and engage with their customers and value chains. M2M is moving from the back-office to centre stage, with the Africa continent set to realise benefits from M2M technology solutions.”
The full report can be found here.
Let’s hope that one of them isn’t the T800.
[Source – Vodafone]
