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Top IoT trends for 2023

When it comes to IoT keeping on top of emerging trends and technologies it’s always important to maintain a competitive edge. But having an IoT ecosystem that is both current and future-proof involves a lot of planning and maintenance. 

IoT is advancing at a rate of knots, so to help you stay in the loop we reveal the top trends emerging this year and beyond and what benefits they can have to your business. 

Greater Network Connectivity

Despite 5G (the fifth generation of wireless connectivity) being superior to 4G its adoption has been a slog – why? Well, because the dense and more complex connectivity is more expensive to roll out and harder to maintain than the equipment used in previous networks. However, total adoption is expected this year and it’s predicted that by the end of 2023, reach is expected to hit two billion.

5G allows for near-zero latency, and greater connectivity in crowded spaces due to its increased bandwidth for more simultaneous users. The evolution of 5G has been particularly beneficial to first-response industries – driving greater and smoother connectivity – keeping you connected

Expansion of Connected Technology 

With further 5G adoption will come the rise of internet-enabled devices such as: 

  • Self-driving cars 
  • Delivery service robots
  • Voice assistant speakers
  • Wearable medical devices
  • Sensors, cameras and detection systems 
  • Drone control systems

5G is already helping to make businesses more efficient, giving consumers more data quicker and faster than ever before. 

Extended Reality (VR, AR & MR) 

Virtual reality (VR), Augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR), put simply are defined as: 

  • VR – a 3D digital environment through a headset 
  • AR – Using a phone or glasses to overlay computer images on top of real world 
  • MR – a combination of the two 

All of these introduce new ways of interacting and experiencing a digital world and as more and more of our lives move online, new ways of interfacing with reality are getting richer and richer. 

The metaverse, while it doesn’t exclusively sit within these categories will continue to immerse VR and with new platforms such as the Meta’s Horizon being released, it’s only going to get bigger and bigger so keep your eyes peeled! 

Challenges to Cybersecurity 

As technology becomes smarter, sadly so do hackers. Research shows over 80% of organisations in the UK experienced a successful attack in 2021/2022. 

In 2023, greater focus is suspected on devices and security especially since the passing of the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Bill – this means manufacturers, importers and retailers’ products will need to meet these cybersecurity standards before selling to consumers. 

How you can benefit from these trends

As IoT is maturing, it’s important your business is bracing for IoT’s impact by figuring out how best to adopt and implement new technology – the trends here are just a few examples of how IoT is revolutionising processes for both consumers and businesses. 

From a small retail outlet to an FTSE 500, IoT will find a way into organisations – if it is not already there! So get ahead, and be prepared so you don’t start to fall behind the times.