The Internet of Things makes it possible to digitalize a lot of traditional objects and connect them into one network which allows for enhancing the efficiency of their use and facilitates multiple tasks for users. But how are mobile technologies related to IoT? And do mobile apps play a significant role in the IoT mass adoption that we can observe today? We are going to answer these questions in this article.
Actually, we won’t exaggerate if we say that mobile apps and devices are among the most powerful boosters for IoT solution development. Of course, there are a lot of IoT enterprise systems that are tracked and controlled from computers. But the majority of IoT solutions are linked to mobile devices as they provide the possibility for practically immediate interaction and data exchange with IoT devices.
Thanks to the duo of IoT and mobile technologies, the opportunities for app development are practically limitless. That’s why if you have a reliable IoT company with relevant experience by your side, you can transform even the boldest ideas into real products.
IoT applications and smartphones
First of all, let’s have a closer look at the reasons and factors that can show us why mobile devices are so important for further IoT industry growth and development. It’s vital to understand that an application that users have on their mobile devices always acts as a bridge or intermediary between them and the IoT system. The application offers the required interface that allows the monitoring of IoT devices and their functionality. As a result, users can enjoy a higher efficiency in tracking their IoT systems and managing them.
Very often a desktop app can provide you with the same functionality that is available in your mobile application. But there are some arguments that can demonstrate that mobile solutions definitely win this competition with desktop programs.
- Smartphones are a more convenient solution when you need to execute remote control and get access to your IoT systems (and data) in real-time regardless of your location.
- It is easier just to take your smartphone from your pocket when you want to switch on a lamp or turn off a conditioning system than to go to your PC and fulfill these tasks.
- Modern mobile phones are enriched with numerous sensors and connectivity options. As smartphones can detect geolocation, they can share this data with IoT devices which can perform some location-based tasks. For example, when a user is leaving the office, a system can turn on the heating at home.
In what IoT solutions do mobile apps play a crucial role?
Actually, the role of mobile applications shouldn’t be underestimated in the entire IoT industry. But we’ve detected the most popular spheres where the use of mobile solutions has already become a standard.
1. Smart home solutions
Smart home systems are probably the brightest example of using the symbiosis of mobile and IoT technologies. The absolute majority of modem smart home solutions are controlled, managed, and operated from mobile devices. Thanks to this approach, users can get remote access to their home security systems, home appliances, lighting, and heating systems. In case of any emergencies, they will get alerts on their mobile phones and will be able to react in practically no time.
2. Transportation and logistics
IoT systems are widely used not only by international logistics firms that organize long-distance B2B deliveries. In this case, logistics specialists can get access to real-time location tracking, fuel consumption data, tachograph control, as well as other important information that helps to plan deliveries with a higher level of accuracy. But mobile IoT apps are also of great use among courier companies that deliver parcels to end-users. For example, DHL widely relies on IoT solutions in the organization of its business processes.
3. Healthcare
The IoT healthcare app market is actively growing given the importance of the offered solutions in increasing the quality of medical services. Thanks to various medical wearables and other devices connected to IoT systems, it is possible to monitor the patient’s state practically without interruptions. As a result, it is possible to react in time to any changes in vital parameters and provide the necessary treatment that will bring the desired results. When a person has chronic problems with the heart, special devices can continuously track the heart rate and in case of any worrying changes, an authorized person (or persons, including medical staff) will get notifications. Mobile IoT apps can also have functionality for getting consultations with doctors in a remote format.
Of course, that is not a full list of all the examples of mobile IoT solutions that are used today. Nevertheless, even those points that we’ve enumerated brightly demonstrate the role of mobile technologies in the IoT industry.
If you have an idea for an IoT solution, we strongly recommend you consider the possibility to build a mobile app for your product that will help users easily manage and control their IoT devices and get the most relevant data in real time.
