Go Beyond The Internet of Things to The Web of Things

Go Beyond The Internet of Things to The Web of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to “the interconnection of uniquely identifiable embedded computing devices (anything from a lightbulb or door handle to a car) within existing Internet infrastructure. Typically, IoT is expected to offer advanced connectivity of devices, systems, and services that goes beyond machine-to-machine communications (M2M) and covers a variety of protocols, domains, and applications.”

The Web of Things is slightly different again: a “set of software architectural styles and programming patterns that allow real-world objects to be part of the World Wide Web. Similarly to what the Web (Application Layer) is to the Internet (Network Layer), the Web of Things provides an Application Layer that simplifies the creation of Internet of Things applications.”

These two processes describe how our devices are getting smarter, and how more of them are becoming “smart” (in the sense of being connected to the Internet).

Some people describe this as the machines beginning to think for themselves, which can be a slightly unnerving concept — the idea of a machine being able to process information logically, let alone more efficiently than we can do ourselves.

More prosaically, the Web of Things as it currently exists is devices with sensors that monitor our environment. One example is apps which can track your sleep. Place one under your pillow while you sleep, and your movements are tracked by an accelerometer, and the device will know how deeply (or lightly) you’re sleeping.

Other examples include remote DVR scheduling, remote home security systems monitoring and administration, and remote home electricity grid usage monitoring. Tech Republic talks about how “CPI Security allows remote device control over your home or small business monitoring system using its InTouch system, where you can remotely arm or disarm your home, control energy sources, receive email or text notifications, and view current status or recent activity from the monitoring system. Using the Web interface or the mobile apps to access your account with login and password credentials, you gain the ability to modify settings and administrate the monitoring system remotely from any location.”

While many entrepreneurs can see the obvious advantages to their devices becoming smarter, and able to more easily interact with their surroundings, there are downsides. Some will invariably preach about the day the “machines take over!”

For those in the agriculture and construction industries however, the practical potential of this technology is clear: sensors planted in the soil will let you measure the moisture level, pH content, and whether or not a particular paddock needs fertilizer and/or water directly from your smartphone — days before you could tell with the naked eye; potentially the difference between a flourishing crop yield and a write-off. Sensors embedded in freshly poured concrete could tell your smartphone exactly when the concrete has set, and you can start building your next floor.

Savvy business owners will be looking to explore how this technology can lend them an edge over their less technologically literate competitors — before their more technologically aware competitors build an unassailable innovation lead over them.

Dana Lindahl is a writer who specializes in content marketing for startups. His writing helps companies not only reach their customers but also drive sales.

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