The Internet of Things: science fiction, or already a reality?

Smart parking, smart homes, smart shopping; connected counters, communicating vehicles - even beehives are connected nowadays. And in the future almost everything is set to be connected to the Internet. What seemed like science fiction just a few years ago is now a normal part of life.

The Internet of Thingsis increasingly part of people's everyday lives. Ever-smaller integrated computers calculate, measure, regulate and steer for us, with the aim of making our lives easier.

For us as consumers, work is meant to be more efficient, our free time more convenient, and our everyday lives safer and easier. Or, to put it simply: IoT is causing long-term changes to the way we will do business, live together, and define work in the future. But, as users, do we really want to be connected to the Internet at all times, wherever we are? What are the benefits, not for businesses, but for individual consumers?

IoT means greater convenience
The room temperature can be adjusted automatically, the refrigerator fills itself almost independently, and when I drive into town, I save time looking for a parking spot. The focus here is very much on convenience. And when I go on vacation, I hardly have to waste any time thinking about my house, because my smart home automatically deals with things like blinds, music and light, making it seem like someone is there.

IoT means improved health care
In terms of health, wearables can already provide information on blood pressure, heart rate and pulse, and can also provide information on whether there are any health risks. But they can also make individual tests and medication, for example for diabetes sufferers, simpler.

IoT means greater independence for the elderly
Smart homes can also provide support in the home and in mastering everyday tasks. This enables a longer independent life in an individual's own home.

IoT means sustainable use of resources
The measurement and smart control of electricity and heating helps consumers to save costs and protect the environment. IoT facilitates increased efficiency in the consumer sector and the sustainable use of energy resources.

All of these positive factors mean that, at the end of the day, we have more time and energy for other things or projects. We would be interested to know just how much the topic of IoT has affected you so far. What do you use? What is really helpful and useful, and what is just a gimmick? Let us know in the comments.