The number of devices connected to the internet continues to grow at a faster pace than ever before. This concept of connected devices is commonly referred as IoT (Internet of Things).

In a study recently released by Cisco, US citizens are currently averaging eight connected devices per person. By 2022, this number is expected to increase to 13-14 devices per person.  As a result, bandwidth requirements will continue to grow at home and at work in order to accommodate the data demands of the future.  

Although connectivity costs are increasingly more affordable each year, the amount of bandwidth needed for IoT continues to cause residential users and businesses to increase their bandwidth requirements.  

Below are just a few examples of unique devices connected to the internet contributing to the rise of our bandwidth needs:

• Juul e-Cigarettes - In an effort to prevent underage smoking, Juul recently released e-Cigarettes paired with Android devices that will have facial detection to ensure the user of the e-Cigarettes are 18 or older. Additionally, the device will enable users to better track the amount of vaping they are doing daily. The days of tracking the number of traditional packs smoked are gone.

• Mirror Connected Fitness System - In case working out in front of your classic mirror wasn't enough, you can now workout in front of your newly connected personal workout mirror! The Mirror Connected Fitness System coaches you through your workouts and tracks your progress as you go.

• Ember Coffee Mugs - Yes you read that right…. Our coffee cups are now connected to the internet! With the Ember Coffee Mugs, you can control the temperature of your cup of Joe for as long as you need.

Many more will be added to this list over the coming years, some of which haven’t even been invented yet.  However, this is an important trend to monitor at home and in the office to ensure your bandwidth is properly sized to support all of these wonderfully connected devices.

If you want to assess your bandwidth requirements and costs, please reach out to an Opkalla team member to discuss next steps.