Connected Devices and Mobile App Development Lead Exciting New Trends

The world is becoming more and more connected—sometimes in surprising ways. The Internet of Things (IoT) is finally beginning to become a reality. An example are appliances and other “things” interconnected and able to share a variety of data with other devices. Wearable tech is another avenue, with smart watches beginning to evolve from clumsy designs into truly enviable accessories. Mobile app development has connected fitness trackers, smart thermostats, home security systems, and more to our smartphones.  This has given us a whole new level of control.

The First Internet Appliance

In 1982, a group of students from the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University modified a Coca-Cola vending machine. They turned it into the first known internet-enabled appliance. The first Internet Coke Machine could provide prospective customers with inventory and temperature information.

This early version of IoT perfectly demonstrates its enterprise mobile solutions. It lays the framework for the Coca-Cola Freestyle drink machines which feature in an increasing number of restaurants. Apart from providing over a hundred different soda and flavour combinations, they also connect wirelessly to a server. This means they can diagnose malfunctions, deliver software updates, and of course, automate inventory orders for new syrups. This example  is the perfect application of IoT as a business solution. By equipping retail and food service appliances businesses can gain valuable insights and automate tasks such as inventory, ordering, service calls, and more.

Other Applications

The Internet of Things and connected mobile app development initiatives can impact so much more than just food service and retail. Healthcare, for starters, can reap significant benefits, as connected monitoring devices can record and update information. This creates more accurate and reliable pictures of a patient’s condition that is accessible  any time, by anyone with authorization. In manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and delivery, IoT is in use to automate processes, schedule tasks, and monitor the efficiency of the workflow. If a business can benefit from automated processes and real-time data tracking, it can benefit from incorporating the Internet of Things into its approach.

Here’s is an example of a mobile app for retail logistics: click here

For mobile enterprise solutions, mobile apps and smart devices  get in touch with a managed mobility service provider.