What will 2019 bring for the Internet of Things?

Simply put, the term ‘Internet of Things’ covers everything that can be connected to the internet. The term these days is used more frequently to refer to any sort of smart device that is able to connect and speak to other technology, such as Amazon’s Alexa and any of the various streaming sticks and gadgets available on the market. Going into 2019, we should expect many more exciting developments in the world of these devices - we’ve listed some of our favourite predictions below.

Smart devices are expected to become more vocal

Recently users have been getting used to the idea of using their voices to control many aspects of their life, such as using any of Amazon’s Alexa products to look after their homes, or conversing with Apple’s Siri to access information quickly and simply. Based on this knowledge, it’s looking increasingly likely that 2019 will be the year that the rest of our possessions begin to find their own voices, too. Several large car manufacturers are in the process of working on creating their own virtual assistants to help drivers safely and conveniently operate vehicles while behind the wheel - don’t expect Knight Rider levels of communication just yet, but we’re not one to rule out the possibility.

5G networks will begin to dominate the market

Move over, 4G, because 5G is on its way. The steady rollout of of 5G networks is set to have a huge impact on high-end Internet of Things applications linked to robotics and automation, virtual and augmented reality and artificial intelligence.

5G will have the ability to enhance the capabilities of certain computing, which is vital for products such as self-driving cars. The list of industries who are ready to take their businesses to the next level with 5G finally becoming available is a long one, covering areas such as manufacturing, public and private transport, public safety, and even smart cities.

Device security will become an even bigger priority

The recent huge increase in Internet of Things devices has unfortunately also led to an accompanying rise in security vulnerabilities - a notable example being the huge Google+ security breach that happened last year. More vulnerabilities in these products can lead to more attacks and more damage, compromising everything from smart homes to high-security government and corporate installations. With this knowledge in mind, large companies who are responsible for the data protection of their many users are set to put even more time and effort into ensuring their products are as safe as possible, aiming to keep customers secure in the knowledge that whatever they decide to put out there won’t be able to fall into the wrong hands.