What Is the Internet of Things and How Does It Shape Our Everyday Life?

From Everyday IoT Examples

Shared bicycles are a typical IoT application. Unlocking can be done via Bluetooth or through the cloud: a phone scans a QR code to obtain the bike's location, sends this information to the cloud, which then commands the lock via GPS, 2G/3G signals.

Fengchao smart lockers also exemplify IoT: a phone scans a QR code to retrieve package information, sends it to the cloud, which identifies the correct locker and opens the lock.

Other common IoT examples include smart home devices.

What Is IoT

IoT consists of sensors, instruments, and smart devices. Application logic can be set on these devices, such as automatic alarm control that triggers alerts when doors or windows are opened between midnight and 5 am.

Core Components

Cloud

In IoT, a platform collects data and sends commands; this is the cloud, e.g., Alibaba Cloud's IoT platform.

Pipe

The communication pipelines support various smart devices, ranging from 5G (now popular) to earlier 2G/3G/4G, GPS, Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, LoRa, etc., both wired and wireless.

Edge

Early IoT transmitted all data to the cloud, causing two major issues: loss of control when the network disconnects, and security risks from sending all data to the cloud. Edge computing addresses these by allowing devices to operate without network connectivity and processing confidential data locally, improving reliability and security.

Terminal

Terminals are the various end devices such as sensors, instruments, and equipment.

Industry Practice and Outlook

The IoT market has broad development prospects. Understanding its concepts, core technologies, current industry status, and future trends is essential. Experts offer public courses and resources to help quickly grasp IoT fundamentals and explore industry cases and future directions.