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As we venture deeper into the digital era, the Internet of Things (IoT) not only shapes our present world but also guides us toward an intriguing future.
In this accelerating digital evolution, from data-driven smart cities to intuitive homes that adapt to our needs, the momentum of the IoT revolution shows no signs of slowing down. In 2023, we stand at the precipice of a transformative future as IoT underpins countless business operations.
Now, it’s not only essential to appreciate the strides IoT has made but also to look ahead at the prospects. This article navigates through the global IoT landscapes and looks into future trends.
Charting the Future of IoT: Proliferation in Business Operations
The rapid proliferation of IoT devices, facilitated by advancements in connectivity solutions such as fifth-generation wireless connectivity (5G), has fundamentally changed how businesses operate, opening avenues for improved efficiency, productivity, and decision-making. This signals a transformation not just for the present but also sets the stage for the enterprises of the future.
According to Statista, IoT technology was the third-most implemented or planned to be implemented in North American and European organizations in 2023. More than half (57%) of North American and European organizations currently use IoT within their operations.
IoT adoption outpaced trends like 5G, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), and even edge computing.
Source: Statista
Businesses have significantly increased their investments in this technology, recognizing its immense potential and benefits. Statista’s data indicates that business spending on IoT reached a peak in 2022 ($201 billion; +68% compared to 2019), and it’s projected to rise even more, with the global enterprise IoT market forecasted to swell to an impressive $483 billion by 2027 (+140% compared to 2022).
Source: Statista
This tremendous market expansion echoes the escalating number of IoT connections, underlining a trend that appears to define the future. Statista predicts that total consumer and industrial IoT connections in North America alone will nearly double, hitting a staggering 5.4 billion by 2025 (+93% compared to 2019).
Smart Homes: The Consumer Adoption of IoT in the U.S.
As businesses adopt and invest more in IoT, this technology’s influence is also seen in consumer trends. Notably, smart homes have increased. IoT’s foothold in the U.S. offers a glimpse into the future of IoT, where smart home device ownership is the norm. A 2023 online survey conducted by Statista among 10,006 consumers unveiled fascinating insights into this trend.
Source: Statista
The vast majority (77%) of U.S. respondents reported owning entertainment-related devices like Bluetooth speakers, Smart TVs, and streaming devices.
Other areas of smart home implementation were also well-represented, with:
- Safety/security at 34%;
- Electricity/lighting at 33%;
- Smart appliances at 29%;
- Energy management at 27%;
- Smart speakers with integrated virtual assistants at 26%.
Interestingly, only 16% reported no ownership of smart home devices.
Global Expansion: The Future of IoT and the Rise of Smart Homes Worldwide
However, North America was not the only place recording a shift toward smart homes. Smart home users worldwide have consistently grown in number.
According to Statista, in 2022, the number stood at approximately 307.8 million users (+88% compared to 2018). Predictions show this trend continuing, with an anticipated rise to a staggering 672.6 million users by 2027 (+119% compared to 2022).
Source: Statista
The industry revenue also reflects this global embrace of smart homes. The smart home market worldwide has seen significant growth.
According to Statista, the industry reported revenue of around $117.6 billion in 2022 (+111% compared to 2018). Statista projects a further increase, with revenue expected to reach an impressive $222.9 billion by 2027 (+90% compared to 2022).
Source: Statista
These figures, both from the business and consumer perspectives, underscore the tremendous growth and adoption of IoT technologies. They provide a solid foundation for understanding the future of IoT.
All the stats indicate a future where smart homes and businesses will be commonplace, enhancing our lives through improved connectivity and efficiency.
