Emerging issues: The Internet of Things

This chapter explores convergence between ICTs and the economy on a grand scale, otherwise known as the Internet of Things (IoT). The term implies the connection of most devices and objects over time to a network of networks. It encompasses developments in machine-to-machine communication, the cloud, big data and sensors, actuators and people. This convergence will lead to machine learning, remote control and eventually autonomous machines and systems. Estimates indicate that 25 billion devices could be connected by 2020, but challenges remain in gathering concrete and accurate data on the widespread use of IoT technology, now and in the future. Adoption will depend to a large extent on the capacity of governments to create an adequate regulatory framework in key areas including telecommunication, privacy and consumer policy.