Last week, I attended the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where I met with the Internet of Things (IoT) hardware suppliers, device makers, sensor manufacturers, software application developers, and infrastructure companies. The show demonstrated the extraordinary breadth of the consumer electronics and IoT industries and the rapid pace of innovation driving digital transformation for consumers and enterprises.
Four key IoT themes emerged at CES 2023:
- The explosion of data is now available from connected IoT devices. The growing adoption of IoT solutions has awakened business leaders to the necessity of gaining visibility into their operations and analyzing data to drive better decisions across their organizations. Some businesses are connecting and generating data from their assets for the first time, and leaders are realizing opportunities to solve harder and more valuable problems through IoT. Most striking in this regard, and more prominent this year than in the past is the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) tools on top of the data provided by connected devices. This was the year AI/ML took a leap forward across the IoT industry.
- The increasing capabilities of location-aware devices. This was evident in the array of powerful new location-aware devices on display at CES 2023. Devices are becoming smaller, more accurate indoors and outdoors, and much more power efficient. This is opening up a range of use cases for asset tracking and management that were not cost-effective in previous years. Vendors and device makers are demonstrating the feasibility and operational performance of cellular, Bluetooth, and Ultra-Wide-Band (UWB) solutions.
- The importance of collaboration and scalability in the industry. One key lesson from the past five years across the IoT industry is partners are vital to building an end-to-end solution for customers (and not just fail at the pilot stage). In my conversations with companies from hardware to software to infrastructure, I learned that companies are taking affirmative steps to deepen partnerships that can successfully carry IoT customers from proof of concept to a fully launched and scaled solution.
- The demand for consumer-like experiences in IoT solutions. Customers and end users at large and small enterprises now demand IoT solutions that provide a consumer-like customer experience. Recognizing this, IoT companies at CES 2023 are focusing more than ever on delivering simple, easy-to-use solutions that fully integrate hardware and software. This includes generalizing and customizing IoT software platforms and applications. We’re seeing a convergence of consumer-type interfaces adopted within enterprises in the IoT space. One factor that is enabling IoT companies to deliver these experiences is the continued decreasing cost of components, cloud compute, and infrastructure. This is creating opportunities for end-to-end innovation, ultimately improving the user experience.
With the IoT ecosystem on full display at the show, 9 companies stood out to me at CES 2023 by embodying several of these overarching themes.
Kudelski IoT. Kudelski IoT is leading the charge in the increasing regulation of IoT security with its ability to help companies navigate standards and comply with evolving security requirements. In recent years, the company has also proven its ability to create end-to-end solutions such as asset trackers, in particular. As a leader in security solutions, Kudelski IoT is focused on protecting against cyber threats and unauthorized access by creating devices that are secure by design.
Airgain. Airgain is a leading provider of antenna solutions for IoT, and the company was a notable presence at CES. Their expertise in antenna design and engineering is helping to drive the industry forward and their products, used in applications such as wireless infrastructure, connected homes, and automotive, were impressive.
Sensata IN. Sensata IN offers a range of sensors and sensor-based solutions for IoT. Their products are used in a variety of industries including automotive, industrial, and healthcare, and they are known for their high performance and reliability. Sensata IN used CES 2023 as the official launch of its new Sensata INSIGHTS brand. The brand provides end-to-end IoT solutions for worksite and asset monitoring, supply chain and logistics, and telematics.
Qorvo. Qorvo is a major player in RF solutions for IoT, offering a range of products including RF filters, power amplifiers, and low-noise amplifiers. Their solutions are used in a variety of applications including wireless infrastructure, industrial automation, and wearable devices.
PINpoint. PINpoint specializes in location-based services and solutions for IoT. Their products enable businesses to track and monitor assets in real-time, providing valuable insights and improving efficiency.
Quectel. Quectel is a global supplier of cellular and GNSS modules, providing solutions for a wide range of applications including smart cities, connected cars, and industrial automation. Their products are known for their high performance and reliability, and they are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with IoT technology.
Interlink Electronics. Interlink Electronics is a leading provider of human-machine interface solutions, including touchpads, touchscreens, and sensors. Their products are used in a variety of industries, including healthcare, aerospace, and automotive, and they are known for their high-quality and innovative design.
UnitedSiC. UnitedSIC is a manufacturer of silicon carbide FETs and diodes for high-power and high-efficiency applications. Their cutting-edge technology is driving innovation in industries such as renewable energy and electric vehicles.
Minew. Minew is a provider of IoT hardware and solutions for asset tracking and was also at the show demonstrating their range of products. From GPS trackers to beacon devices, Minew is helping businesses to track and manage their assets in real time.
Interacting with the full range of IoT companies, I came away from CES 2023 impressed by the momentum in the IoT space, and confident the trends that emerged this year will accelerate. This year’s CES testified to the rapid pace of innovation, and companies collaborating to push the limits of what is possible for IoT solutions to achieve across industries. From hardware and device makers to sensor manufacturers and infrastructure companies, it was clear these firms are pushing the industry forward in exciting new ways.
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