AI Dictionary
Internet of Things (IoT)
Definition
A network of physical objects specifically designed to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet.
Deep Dive
The Internet of Things (IoT) describes a vast network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies, specifically designed to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet. These "things" range from everyday household items like smart appliances and wearable fitness trackers to industrial machinery and urban infrastructure, all equipped with unique identifiers and the ability to transfer data without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction.
Examples & Use Cases
- 1Smart home devices like thermostats (e.g., Nest) that learn preferences and adjust temperatures automatically
- 2Wearable fitness trackers that monitor heart rate, steps, and sleep patterns, syncing data to a smartphone app
- 3Industrial sensors attached to factory equipment, providing real-time data for predictive maintenance and operational optimization
Related Terms
Smart DevicesEdge ComputingM2M (Machine-to-Machine)