Just imagine, there's a smart thermostat linked to your smartphone, the heating, and the cooling systems. It can help you increase or decrease the temperature sitting in your bed. And how you'll feel when the weather is chilly and rainy, and you can increase the temperature in advance and make your house snug and warm. Sounds like a daydream, doesn’t it?
Technology has crossed all the limits of innovation and imagination. Bonjour Industry 4.0! It's all about remarkable innovation and outstanding technological advancements making our lives better and yes amazingly comfortable. Hence, maintaining interdependencies and rising use of interconnecting devices are bringing revolution themselves. Why and how? Well, the 21st century is grateful because it got the Internet of Things on the frontier line. People love and enjoy automation. So, you can expect the Internet of Things (IoT) market worldwide to value around USD 650.5 billion by 2026.
Also Read: Complete Guide of IoT in Mobile App Development
IoT App Development: A Quick Overview
IoT app development is building an IoT system in which digital devices communicate with each other through data without any need for human intervention. In other terms, it is all about crafting IoT solutions for M2M (Machine-to-Machine) interactions. For instance, they might be logistics firms' accounting systems, IoT drug verification systems for medical businesses, smart house systems, HVAC systems, or business security systems.
Different items or devices integrated with built-in sensors are linked to IoT platforms, which then bind all the relevant data from multiple devices and utilize analytics to share valuable information with apps tailored to certain needs. These complex yet advanced IoT solutions precisely define which information is important and which can be overlooked. This retrieved data helps recognize vulnerabilities, make suggestions, and spot patterns.
IoT Market Overview
The IoT Market Overview reveals a dynamic and rapidly expanding sector. According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global IoT market stood at a notable $544.38 billion as of 2022.
This impressive figure is anticipated to skyrocket to an astounding $3.3 trillion by 2030. Such growth, progressing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 26.1%, underscores IoT’s transformative impact across industries.
This surge is fueled by increasing demand for automation and advanced data analytics in various sectors. Businesses globally are recognizing IoT’s potential in enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation.
IoT’s integration in areas like smart homes, healthcare, and industrial automation is particularly noteworthy. This market growth is also propelled by advancements in wireless networking technologies and the proliferation of cloud computing. The expanding IoT market is set to offer unprecedented opportunities for businesses to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
Unpacking Facets of IoT Application Development
You cannot develop IoT applications in a vacuum. The Internet of Things architecture incorporates a combination of hardware and software components that, once connected together, create a smart system full of actionable insights. So let’s see what’s under the hood.
IoT Sensors and Devices
First and foremost, an IoT system includes a device layer with sensors, devices, or actuators used to collect and transfer data. Sensors can record all types of data — from vitals to humidity — and pass it on to the next layer.
Firmware
Firmware is a chunk of code embedded into smart devices that enables them to collect and transmit data as well as empowers device-to-app and device-to-cloud connectivity. Firmware also determines the response of IoT devices to various inputs and conditions.
Network Connectivity
After vacuuming up the data, the device then talks to the cloud through some kind of connectivity. The latter includes a variety of communication technologies such as cellular networks, Wi-Fi, LPWANs, RFID, and others. The connectivity can be enabled either directly or via gateways (if there’s a bridge needed between different communication technologies).
Once parts of the IoT solution are synced, messaging protocols come into the picture. They enable the IoT ecosystem to exchange data with other devices and with the cloud. DDS, AMQP, and MQTT are the most popular protocols used in the IoT ecosystems.
Data Processing
When the data gets to the cloud, it needs to be accumulated, stored, and processed. At first, all input ends up in a temporary data storage such as a data lake. If the input is relevant, it’s filtered, enriched, and sent to a permanent location such as a data warehouse where it can be easily accessed for insights.
User Interface
Here’s where all the magic happens. The data from a data warehouse is run through smart analytics and presented in an easily digestible form to the user via business intelligence tools. This whole functionality is combined in an IoT app. Depending on the business needs, companies may build web or mobile apps to access data, monitor the variables, and control devices.
Why Develop an IoT Application?
During the worst pandemic in a century, IoT spending grew manifolds. The trend seems to be continuing well into the future. The following graph shows the projected spending on IoT in the coming years.
You do not want to hop on to this technological behemoth without doing your due diligence. If you are planning to develop an app (or getting it developed by a tech partner),you need to make sure that it is tailored to your requirements. A ready-made solution may seem convenient in the short run, but an IoT application is a considerable investment for the long run in terms of both time and money. So you need to consider the overall returns on your investment.
An IoT app can help you monitor your business, improve efficiency and make better decisions based on device data that it collects and analyzes.
Must Read: Create an IoT App from Scratch
Top Functionality of IOT Application
IoT applications are becoming increasingly popular. Let’s explore the top functionalities of an IoT application.
Real-Time Monitoring
IoT application development allows you to monitor real-time data from sensors, such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and motion sensors. This functionality is particularly useful in industries such as healthcare, where real-time monitoring can help doctors and nurses provide better care to patients.
Predictive Maintenance
Predictive maintenance is a technique that uses real-time data to predict when a device is likely to fail. With the help of an IoT application, you can monitor your devices and receive alerts when they are about to fail. This functionality can help you save money by preventing costly repairs and minimising downtime.
Improved Customer Experience
IoT applications can help you provide a better customer experience by providing personalised services and real-time alerts. For example, an IoT application can alert you when your order is ready for pickup or when a product you are interested in is back in stock.
Remote Control
One of the primary functions of an IoT application development is remote control. With the help of an IoT application, you can control your home appliances, such as lights, fans, and air conditioners, from anywhere in the world. This functionality can help you save energy and money by turning off devices when they are not in use.
Data Analytics
IoT applications can collect and analyse large amounts of data from sensors and devices. With the help of data analytics, you can gain valuable insights into your business or home. For example, an IoT application development can help you analyse energy usage patterns to identify areas where you can save energy and reduce costs.
Enhanced Efficiency
IoT applications can help you automate routine tasks, such as turning off lights when you leave the room or adjusting the temperature when you are not at home. This functionality can help you save time and improve efficiency.
Smart Security
IoT applications can be used to enhance security by providing real-time alerts when there is unusual activity in your home or business. For example, an IoT application can alert you when someone enters your home or when a door or window is opened.
Read About: Top Tools and Platforms for IoT Development by Developers
Tools to Build an Internet of Things Application
Building an IoT application can seem daunting, but with the right tools, it can be a manageable task. In this blog, we will discuss some of the essential tools for building an IoT application.
IoT Platforms
IoT platforms are software platforms that enable developers to build, test, and deploy IoT applications. These platforms provide essential features such as device management, data storage, and analytics. Some of the popular IoT platforms are Amazon Web Services (AWS),Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
Hardware
Choosing the right hardware is essential to building an IoT application. The hardware needs to be compatible with the IoT platform and protocols, and it should be reliable and easy to integrate with the application. Some popular IoT hardware devices are Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and Particle.
Programming Languages
Choosing the right programming language is critical to building an IoT application. The programming language should be easy to learn, have a large community, and be compatible with the hardware and IoT platform. Some popular programming languages for building IoT applications are Python, Java, and C++.
IDE
An integrated development environment (IDE) is a software application that provides a comprehensive environment for building and testing code. IDEs typically provide features such as code highlighting, debugging, and code completion. Some popular IDEs for building IoT applications are Visual Studio Code, Eclipse, and PyCharm.
Protocols
IoT devices use different protocols to communicate with each other and with the cloud. Understanding these protocols is essential to ensure that the application can communicate effectively with the devices it needs to control and collect data from. Some popular IoT protocols are MQTT, CoAP, and HTTP.
Analytics Tools
Analytics tools are essential for processing and analyzing the large amounts of data generated by IoT devices. These tools help developers identify patterns and insights in the data, which can be used to optimize the application. Some popular analytics tools for building IoT applications are Apache Spark, Elasticsearch, and Kibana.
Building an IoT application development requires the right tools and technologies. IoT platforms, hardware, programming languages, IDEs, protocols, and analytics tools are some of the essential tools for building an IoT application. By choosing the right tools, developers can build robust and scalable IoT applications that can help businesses and organizations make data-driven decisions.
Use Cases of IoT Apps & Technology
In this section, we’ll spend a bit of time digging deeper into the main business areas that can benefit from IoT solution development.
Manufacturing
One of the most exciting growth areas of IoT technology (or IIoT – Industrial Internet of Things) is manufacturing. Manufacturing companies use a lot of machinery, devices, and sensors already, so it makes sense that IoT systems are a perfect fit for their operations and business processes.
Well-designed and implemented IoT systems can seriously boost the productivity of a typical manufacturing business.
Within the manufacturing industry, older technology such as Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication already involves the transfer of data between machines and devices at various stages of the manufacturing process. IoT technology can be integrated within this ecosystem to optimize production capacity and processes.
There is a demand for IoT applications and software that help to streamline production activities, provide enhanced quality control, improve asset management, and help to manage equipment more effectively.
Transportation & Logistics
In the logistics sector and transport services, efficiency and timeliness are key concerns. IoT systems help to track and monitor data, allowing logistics companies to react and optimize their operations.
For example, a delivery business can use passive or active RFID tags fitted with GPS to track the delivery of goods using in-vehicle IoT sensors. The company needs to hire a team of developers to build an IoT app or platform to build software that will analyze the data and provide useful insights to the user.
Smart Homes
In the world of consumer goods, smart home gadgets and appliances are a huge growth market. Almost all systemic elements of a home can be enhanced by IoT technology – lighting, heating, water, security, and resource usage, plus many more solutions. IoT systems within a smart home range from remote-controlled lighting to automated heating systems that adjust to the owner’s preferred temperature settings.
All smart home systems have a complimentary mobile app, which can control multiple smart home elements from one dashboard.
Retail
Retail is another area of the economy that is opening up to the potential of IoT systems. Background processes such as supply chain management and quality control can be enhanced with IoT technology and apps. In-store features such as click-and-collect management, pricing, and customer services can be optimized by IoT.
For example, IoT beacons can be placed at strategic locations in the store that send a notification to the shopper’s mobile phone making them aware of special offers within that section of the shop floor. It can also be used to automatically direct staff to locations where customer support is required or where cashier queues are building up.
Healthcare
As biomedicine and healthcare technology advances rapidly, IoT systems will become more prominent in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare services, as well as at home. IoT sensors and devices can help to speed up diagnosis, assist with patient monitoring, allocate resources, and direct treatment.
IoT devices can be used to monitor patient’s health statistics, both in healthcare settings and remotely. Patients can be given a wearable to monitor heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure, for example. This means that they don’t need to be physically present, but they are still getting the doctor’s supervision that they need.
Also Read: Blockchain and IoT Together Making Ways Towards the Digitized World
How Do IoT Apps Work?
IoT apps are versatile and can be used in various domains, including smart homes, industrial automation, healthcare, agriculture, and more. The key is to enable seamless communication between devices and provide valuable insights and control to users. Internet of Things (IoT) apps work by connecting physical devices to the Internet.
It allows them to communicate with each other and with cloud-based servers. These apps enable data collection, monitoring, and control of various devices and sensors. And thus, it creates a network of interconnected devices. Here’s a general overview of how IoT apps typically work:
Device Connectivity
Physical devices, such as sensors, actuators, and other smart devices, are equipped with embedded sensors and communication modules (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.). These devices are connected to the internet, either directly or through a gateway device.
Data Collection
Devices collect data from their environment through sensors. This data can include temperature, humidity, motion, location, or any other relevant information. The collected data is then processed locally on the device or sent to the cloud for further analysis.
Data Transmission
After the collection of data through sensors, IoT apps transmit data from the devices to the cloud or a central server using communication protocols such as MQTT, CoAP, HTTP, or others.
Cloud Infrastructure
In the cloud, the data is stored, processed, and analyzed by IoT platforms or applications.
Data Processing and Analysis
The cloud infrastructure processes and analyzes the incoming data to derive meaningful insights. In some cases, IoT is used in modern AI or ML applications to identify patterns, anomalies, or predictions based on the collected data.
Decision Making
Based on the analysis, IoT apps make decisions in real-time or through predefined rules and logic. These decisions can trigger actions such as sending alerts, adjusting device settings, or initiating other automated processes.
User Interface and Control
Users can interact with the IoT system through mobile apps, web interfaces, or other user interfaces. The interface allows users to monitor the status of devices, view data visualizations, and control connected devices remotely.
Read About: Complete Guide to Hire iOT Developer in 2024
Steps to Develop an IoT Application
Developing an IoT application involves a series of strategic steps, each critical to the project’s success. This process requires careful planning, technical expertise, and a user-centered approach.
Here are the key stages in IoT application development:
Define Concept
Defining the concept is the foundational step in creating an IoT application. It involves identifying the problem or needs that the app will address. This phase requires thorough research and understanding of the target market. A well-defined concept ensures the app’s relevance and potential success.
During Internet of Things app development, concept definition guides the functionality and design of the application. It’s essential to consider user needs and how the IoT app will meet them.
Factors like feasibility, market demand, and innovation play a crucial role here. A clearly defined concept forms the backbone of any successful IoT application, setting the stage for all subsequent development stages.
Market Research
Market research is an indispensable stage in the IoT application development process. It involves analyzing the target market to understand the potential demand for the application. This research helps identify the existing competition and the unique selling points of the new IoT app.
Gathering insights about customer preferences, needs, and behaviors is crucial. This information shapes the app’s features, design, and user experience. An effective market research strategy includes surveys, focus groups, and analysis of market trends.
It also involves studying similar IoT applications to glean best practices and potential pitfalls. Understanding the market landscape thoroughly ensures that the IoT application is well-positioned to meet user needs and stand out in the competitive market.
Find a Development Team
Finding the IoT app development company is a critical step in the success of an IoT application development project. The team should possess expertise in IoT technologies and a proven track record in similar projects.
Selecting a team that understands the specific industry and has relevant experience is crucial. This team must include skilled developers, designers, and project managers who are proficient in IoT protocols, programming languages, and hardware integration.
Their collaboration and communication skills are equally important. The ideal team aligns with the project’s goals, timeline, and budget, demonstrating strong problem-solving abilities and a capacity for innovation. A well-chosen development team is essential for turning an IoT application development concept into a successful and functional reality.
UI/UX Design
UI/UX design in IoT application development is pivotal in determining the app’s usability and user satisfaction. This stage involves creating an intuitive interface that simplifies user interactions with the IoT system.
The design process should prioritize ease of use, especially considering the diverse range of users. A well-crafted UI/UX can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the IoT application, making it accessible and enjoyable to use.
In IoT application development, UI/UX design goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on the functionality and user journey. Designers must consider the unique challenges posed by IoT, like integrating various devices and ensuring a seamless experience across them. Effective UI/UX design is about creating an interface that resonates with users.
Development Cycle
The development cycle in IoT application is a structured process that involves several key stages. Initially, it starts with requirement gathering, where the specific needs for the IoT application development are identified.
This is followed by the design phase, where the application’s architecture and workflows are mapped out. Next, the development stage involves actual coding and creation of the application, incorporating IoT technology.
During this phase, regular testing is conducted to ensure functionality and identify any bugs. After development, the application goes through rigorous quality assurance testing for performance, security, and usability.
Finally, the application is deployed, but the cycle doesn’t end here. Post-deployment, it enters the maintenance phase. Here ongoing support, updates, and improvements are made based on user feedback and technological advancements.
QA and Testing
QA and testing are crucial phases in Internet of Things application development, ensuring the application’s reliability and functionality. This stage involves various types of testing, including functionality, usability, security, and performance tests.
Each test aims to identify and resolve potential issues before the application’s deployment. In Internet of Things application development, testing IoT devices’ interaction with the software is key.
This ensures seamless integration and communication within the IoT ecosystem. Automated testing can be employed for efficiency, but manual testing is also essential for a user-centric approach. Rigorous QA and testing not only enhance the quality of the IoT application development but also build user trust and satisfaction.
Collect Feedback from Users and Improve
Collecting feedback from users is a critical step in the IoT application development process. It provides invaluable insights into the user experience and application performance. Engaging with users for feedback can be done through surveys, interviews, or usage data analysis.
This feedback is essential for identifying areas of improvement and understanding the app’s real-world impact. User feedback helps in fine-tuning the IoT application, making it more aligned with user needs and expectations. Continual improvement based on user input is key to the success of IoT applications.
It ensures that the application evolves with changing user requirements and technological advancements. This cycle of feedback and improvement is integral to maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of the IoT application.
Maintenance and Support
Maintenance and support are ongoing and crucial aspects of IoT application development. After deployment, regular maintenance ensures the application remains up-to-date and efficient. This includes updating software, managing servers, and resolving any technical issues that arise.
Support involves providing assistance to users and addressing their queries and concerns promptly. Both maintenance and support are vital for the longevity and success of the application.
They help in retaining user trust and satisfaction by ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted experience. Proactive maintenance can prevent potential issues, while effective support enhances user engagement.
Regular monitoring and analytics are also part of this phase, providing insights for further improvements. This continuous cycle of maintenance and support is essential for the smooth operation and evolution of the IoT application.
Read Also: Security Challenges in IoT Software Development and Possible Solutions
Cost to Develop an IoT Application
The cost of developing an IoT application varies widely, with estimates ranging from $10,000 to $1,000,000. Several factors influence this broad range. For a basic IoT proof of concept (PoC),costs typically fall between $10,000 and $30,000. This initial stage focuses on validating the feasibility of the IoT idea with minimal features.
For an IoT minimum viable project (MVP),the cost usually ranges from $30,000 to $100,000. An MVP includes more developed features and is closer to a fully functional application. This stage allows for testing in real-world scenarios and gathering user feedback.
The Key Takeaway
IoT solutions work for any business model across different industries and benefit them with streamlined processes, higher profits, and improved services. Launching one means building a solid ecosystem that seamlessly integrates web and mobile applications to deliver the best end-user performance.
If you want to revolutionize your business with IoT apps, choose JPLoft as your trusted partner. We’ve been building IoT applications for several years and, even better, can create IoT devices, hardware modules, and firmware solutions.
IoT solutions development is beneficial to businesses of all sizes and in a variety of industries because they streamline operations, increase profitability, and enhance services. To launch one, you must first create a strong ecosystem that combines web and mobile applications in a seamless manner to provide the best end-user performance.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to develop an IoT application?
IoT application development costs are dynamic depending on features, security, and other factors. However, the typical range is between $20-60K, if you choose to develop the application entirely from scratch. A good way to bring your costs down is to choose an IoT platform that can speed up this process while also lowering costs.
2. How long does it take to build an app from scratch?
The typical development of an IoT application can take up to 12-24 months. This duration can go up further if the processes are not streamlined or the right tools aren’t used. However, you can bring down the time considerably by employing a good IoT platform.
3. What are 5 examples of IoT applications?
IoT applications are everywhere around us. Some great examples of IoT applications are:
Google Nest
MyFitnessPal
Apple Watch app
Fasal (Agricultural IoT)
Ring: Home Security Systems
4. How do I make my own IoT app?
To develop an IoT application, you need to define the objective of the app itself. Then you can go about it in this way:
Choose the right devices/ hardware
Figure out the appropriate connectivity protocol
Develop the right firmware
Pick a cloud platform that fits your requirements
Build the application on the platform
Secure your application
