The synthesis of the real and virtual worlds is already happening—have you heard about the Internet of Things?
Internet of Things is the close integration of the real and virtual worlds, where communication occurs between people and devices.
The first theoretical foundation of the Internet of Things appeared in the 1990s, based on ideas of wireless data transmission, mobility, and artificial intelligence. One of the first known IoT devices was a vending machine for cold drinks, which allowed remote checking of drink availability and whether they were chilled.
Subcutaneous Chips
Biohacking is a growing trend where enthusiasts seek to enhance their bodies and minds.
One method of body enhancement is subcutaneous chips. Tiny RFID tags under the skin can store any information—from passport data to credit card details.
In 2015, Moscow engineer Vlad Zaitsev implanted an NFC chip from a "Troika" transport card under his skin. During the procedure, the "travel card" was dissolved in acetone, and the chip was wrapped in biocompatible silicone before being inserted into his hand. After programming, the NFC chip allowed Zaitsev not only to pay for transport but also to open his office door.
Voice Assistants
Voice assistants like Siri, Alice, Alexa, Cortana, and even Tinkoff Bank's Oleg are becoming increasingly common.
Such assistants have become commonplace, but they can also be considered part of the Internet of Things, as they allow users to lock doors, control household appliances, and even make purchases!
According to Nielsen Media Research, nearly a quarter of American households use at least one voice assistant, and 40% of them own multiple digital assistants.
Smart Home
"Smart home" (eng. smart home) is a home automation system. It is a set of devices that, for our convenience, make decisions and perform routine household tasks.
Smart homes are equipped with everything needed for comfortable living and security—surveillance cameras, climate control systems, smart bulbs, and automatic doors.
Send commands to outlets, coffee makers, or check on your family from your smartphone anywhere in the world—true Internet of Things!
What's Next?
It is assumed that in the future, such technologies will become active participants in business, information, and social processes, where they can interact and communicate with each other.
The Internet of Things is developing very rapidly. Homes, offices, and entire cities are getting smarter. Currently, the process is slowed by the lack of a legal framework, but California has already prepared a draft IoT law.
Russian authorities have promised to present their legal developments in 2019.