2022 brings with it exciting Internet of Things (IoT) edge computing trends to which we can look forward. But first, what exactly is edge computing? Essentially, it’s a distributed computing framework that brings together enterprise applications to data sources such as location edge servers or IoT devices.
Creating a bridge between data sources and applications allows for less latency, faster data processing, and better bandwidth. With edge computing setups, data is delivered to users using decentralized networks of data repositories and servers that are located close to an end user’s location.
Top IoT Edge Computing Trends in 2022
- More IoT Smart Agriculture
The agriculture sector is benefiting from modern edge computing setups in many ways. The main benefit of edge computing is that it can bring necessary bandwidth to remote and inaccessible locations, regardless of the weather conditions. Farmers, for example, can use edge technology and IoT sensors to track how much water is consumed by their livestock. They can also use it to efficiently:
- Analyze soil quality;
- Monitor fertilizer effectiveness; and
- Maintain farm equipment.
Indeed, IoT devices and edge computing setups can help make time-consuming and labor intensive processes for farmers more manageable. This, in turn, can help them reduce expenses while improving the quality of end products.
In addition to providing data and monitoring, IoT devices and systems can also help optimize management. For example, they can help track how resources are used and whether any improvements are needed for various processes in a farm.
- Increased Popularity of Wearable IoT
Obviously, wearable IoT devices such as fitness watches are not new. However, in 2022, it is expected that their advancements will increase and features will multiply.
A testament to these advancements is the recent release of the Apple smartwatch models that include an ECG app and ‘Tap to pay’ technology. This means that wearable devices are now capable of connecting and exchanging data with devices other than just smartphones.
- 5G Edge Computing and IoT
5G connectivity is rapidly becoming the default connection for enterprises. At the same time, IoT-driven data analysis has become faster, more accurate and more robust. When paired with edge computing technology, these innovations have the potential to make data processes instantaneous in real-time.
Needless to say, faster data processing will prove hugely beneficial for myriad industries. For example, receiving data in fractions of a second in healthcare is essential when it comes to saving a person’s life.
- Edge Computing, IoT and Customer Experience
One of the most effective ways to provide a positive customer experience is through efficient service. This is why many fast food restaurants have moved IoT kiosk-based ordering systems, where customers place their orders using touchscreens instead of interacting with cashiers. When used with edge computing, latency as well as downtime is significantly reduced.
In 2022, more and more industries will follow suit and find ways to make their services faster in order to improve customer experience. To be sure, efficient service can significantly increase customer conversion in the retail industry.
- Low-Power Connectivity
IoT devices and sensors operate outside the range of mesh networks or local wireless networks, which means they don’t always have convenient access to power sources. In the past, operators had gotten by with cellular connectivity, which, unfortunately, fails to provide reliable and stable coverage in remote areas.
As a result, more low power connectivity options are being installed in order to link hard-to-reach IoT sensors to edge networks using radio technologies. In fact, companies affiliated with the LoRa Alliance now use low bandwidth and low power technologies to connect with devices that don’t require high data rates. These devices include IoT sensors which are used for tasks such as oil rig monitoring, where operations take place miles from land.
A Competitive Edge
IoT edge computing trends reflect the recent increase in the adoption by consumers and enterprises alike of IoT and edge computing. The rapid innovations taking place thanks to these two technologies bring with them an exciting future for many industries.
