Exploring the Evolving Internet of Things Timeline: From early 2000s to Present Day
The Internet of Things or IoT has become an integral part of our lives today. IoT refers to the network of everyday objects and devices that are connected to the internet, which enables them to send and receive data. This data is then used to control and monitor these devices. The concept of IoT is not new and can be traced back to the early 2000s when the first devices were connected to the internet.
Early 2000s
The birth of IoT can be traced back to the early 2000s when researchers at MIT launched a project called “Things That Think.” This project aimed to connect ordinary objects such as appliances and furniture to the internet. While the project did not take off immediately, it set the stage for what was to come later.
In 2008, the term “Internet of Things” was coined by Kevin Ashton, a British technology pioneer. Ashton believed that the objects and devices that were connected to the internet could change how we live and work.
Mid 2000s
The mid-2000s saw the rise of the smart home. Consumers began to buy smart home devices that could be controlled by a smartphone and connected to the internet. Companies such as Google and Amazon started to invest heavily in the IoT market.
In 2011, Nest, a company that produced smart thermostats, was acquired by Google for a whopping $3.2 billion. This acquisition set the precedent for smart home devices and IoT for the years to come.
Late 2000s
The late 2000s saw the emergence of autonomous vehicles and drones. These vehicles were fitted with sensors and cameras, which enabled them to operate without human intervention.
In 2013, Tesla launched its Model S car, which was fitted with an advanced autopilot system. This system enabled the car to drive and park itself. Similarly, DJI, a Chinese drone maker, launched its Phantom drone in the same year. The drone was fitted with a camera, which enabled users to capture aerial footage.
Present Day
Today, IoT is everywhere, from our homes to our workplaces. The emergence of 5G technology has enabled faster and more reliable connections, which has led to the development of more advanced IoT devices.
From wearable technology such as Fitbit and Apple Watch to smart fridges that can order groceries for us, IoT has become an integral part of our lives. The rise of smart cities, self-driving cars, and AI-powered devices is only set to increase in the coming years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Internet of Things has come a long way since its inception in the early 2000s. The development of technology and the rise of connected devices have transformed the way we live and work. As this technology continues to evolve, we can only imagine what the future holds for the IoT.