The Evolution of the Internet of Things: A Timeline
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the connection of everyday devices to the internet, allowing them to send and receive data. This technology has been in development for over a decade. Here’s a timeline of the evolution of IoT:
1999
The term “Internet of Things” is coined by Kevin Ashton, co-founder of the Auto-ID Center at MIT.
2004
The first version of the Zigbee protocol is released. Zigbee is a low-power wireless communication standard used for IoT devices.
2008
The number of devices connected to the internet exceeds the number of people on the planet for the first time.
2010
Nest Labs releases the first smart thermostat, which can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app.
2011
The first commercial IoT platform, called ThingWorx, is launched. It provides a way for companies to develop and manage IoT applications.
2014
Google buys Nest Labs for $3.2 billion, marking a major investment in the IoT space.
2015
The first cellular-connected IoT devices hit the market, allowing for greater flexibility in device location.
2016
Amazon releases the Echo, a voice-activated smart home speaker that can control other IoT devices.
2017
The number of IoT devices in use around the world surpasses 8 billion.
2019
Google announces plans to acquire Fitbit, a company that produces wearable fitness trackers.
2020
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerates the adoption of IoT technology in healthcare, with doctors using remote monitoring devices to treat patients.
In conclusion, the IoT industry has come a long way since its inception in 1999. With billions of devices now connected to the internet, IoT has become an integral part of our daily lives. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative IoT devices and applications in the future.
