All posts by [x]cube LABS

[x]cube LABS is a leading digital strategy and solution provider specializing in enterprise mobility space. Over the years, we have delivered numerous digital innovations and mobile solutions, creating over $ 2 billion for startups and enterprises. Broad spectrum of services ranging from mobile app development to enterprise digital strategy makes us the partner of choice for leading brands.
Artificial Intelligence, Blog, Healthcare

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Diagnosis of Diseases

Accurate diagnosis and prognosis of health conditions are a must for treatment, especially during the current pandemic, when we have to deal with many cases and related data. Analyzing this data effectively is the key to future diagnostics and prognostics. The massive health-related data piling up daily could be collected, processed, analyzed, segregated, and deciphered only with Artificial Intelligence. Without AI, understanding the overwhelming flow of accumulating health-related data would become next to impossible.

AI plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing various health conditions. AI predictions of certain chronic health conditions like cancer, genome diseases, post-pandemic health abnormalities, and even the impact of vaccines on future health dynamics are gaining momentum rapidly.

Cancer diagnosis with AI

Endocrine cancer Diagnosis:-

(According to the “Nature Reviews Endocrinology” abstract dated 09 November 2021)

Medical imaging interpretation is the key to diagnosing and analyzing tumorous masses in the endocrine system, like in any other organ malignancy-related diagnosis. Now, AI can be used to precisely understand the system-related tumor imaging data and analyze these images based on system-related inputs. This helps the doctor interpret the images as the patient’s treatment progresses.  Based on AI inputs, doctors can make disease prognoses, and customized disease management plans for every case. Any minute abnormalities can also be detected with the help of AI image modeling as specific abnormal images, like the pituitary gland mass images, are very difficult for doctors to analyze. These images might not be very clear based on the location of the tumorous lesions. The endocrine cancer diagnosis was earlier dependent heavily on tissue culture and biopsy. A biopsy requires an invasive medical examination and can sometimes be very difficult, painful, and unreliable. Biopsy evaluations alone cannot be taken as confirmatory and determinant criteria for the prognosis of these types of cancers.

AI hence assists in non-invasive diagnosis of critically difficult cancers like endocrine cancers. AI predictions and pathological data studies can help the doctor analyze the patient’s condition and evaluate a befitting treatment process.  The diagnosis of cancer is the key, and AI helps to assess logically any random abnormalities that can crop up due to the drugs and treatment procedures used. This could also be done by applying AI data interpretation models to study the data available in similar cases across different related neural networks. AI helps better coordinate the radiologists who evaluate this data and the doctors who treat the patients. 

COVNet

(extract from the online published report of RSNA radiology.  March 19, 2020)

The COVID-19 detection neural network, COVNet, is a deep learning model developed to analyze the mass CT scan images across different test hospitals. This was meant to analyze and decipher the chest CT scans across six hospitals between August 2016 and February 2022 to evaluate the extent of pneumonia acquired by the community because of contracting the COVID-19 SARS virus. The data was very useful in predicting pneumonia sensitivity depending on the patient’s age.

 

AI in thoracic surgery and diagnosis

AI in the diagnosis of lung cancer and thoracic surgery (based on the European respiratory review): 

FIGURE 1 brief history of AI based on (the European respiratory review)

Thoracic surgeons across the globe are now able to comprehend the benefit of AI-assisted robotic surgery and the futuristic requirements for AI diagnosis in the treatment of lung cancer and other critical chronic lung-related ailments. The AI tool called CAD (computer-aided diagnostic tool) was designed and improvised to detect the presence of both benign and malignant chest nodules in its early stages of algorithm evolution. Later on, the CAD tool was developed to diagnose lung nodules with greater precision. This was done concurrently using AI with CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine data. A National Lung Screening trial was conducted in 2011 using AI diagnosis. Using this data, Ardila et al. created a neural network model to study low-volume CT data and predict futuristic risks. The data could predict people who are at risk of developing lung cancer in the future. 578 out of the 14,851 cases developed lung cancer the following year, which was confirmed with a biopsy. This model could beat the radiologist’s predictions by reducing the false positive predictions by 11% and the false negative percentage by 5%. The use of AI diagnosis will reduce complex diagnosis errors when it is used in concurrence with pulmonologist diagnosis.  

Cost saving using AI diagnosis:

A study was conducted on rectal and colon polyps using AI diagnosis using the diagnostic tool in Tokyo, Japan, to predict the presence of neoplastic and non-neoplastic polyps detected in patients who underwent colonoscopy. AI diagnosis resulted in savings of US$119, US$52, US$34, and US$125 per colonoscopy, and up to US$149.2 million, US$12.4 million, US$1.1 million, and US$85.2 million for the gross annual reimbursement for colonoscopies conducted under public health insurances when the real-life case studies were conducted in the clinical studies of EndoBRAIN, Cybernet System Corp and Olympus Corp, Tokyo, Japan. According to this study using AI diagnosis, the cost of the average colonoscopy and the cost of the annual reimbursement on colonoscopies were reduced by 18.9% in Japan, 6.9% in  England, 7.6% in Norway, and 10.9% in the USA, respectively.

Conclusion

The role of AI diagnosis is very crucial in the medical field today. It reduces the number of errors during diagnosis, contrary to the traditional diagnostic procedure, which relies heavily on radiological and pathological diagnosis alone. AI diagnosis has proven to reduce the cost of diagnosis and medical reimbursement. It is predicted that AI algorithms could be used to develop customized AI diagnostic tools that could further reduce the cost of diagnosis. The prognosis of disease utilizing this method is more accurate as AI diagnosis can detect abnormalities and make logical predictions as the disease progresses.

IoT, IoT in Banking
Banking, Blog, Internet of Things

The Applications Of IoT In The Banking Industry

IoT, IoT in Banking

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a method of collecting and analyzing data. Along with many other industries like manufacturing, insurance, retail, and even agriculture, IoT in banking generates much interest.

The banking sector uses IoT to improve customer service, security, and management. IoT also helps automate many services and helps improve peer-to-peer transactions.

IoT is helping to streamline many aspects of the fintech industry. Banks use the IoT ecosystem to gather relevant data to leverage for different banking processes. In this article, you will find what those processes are and how IoT is affecting them.

A Brief Overview Of IoT

The Internet of Things is the idea of gathering and processing large quantities of data from various sources. The automatic gathering process can provide real-time feedback about everything on the IoT network.

Many industries have started using this technology to improve their operational efficiency. IoT technology can give accurate insight into underlying issues that people often overlook. It helps reduce labor costs and enhances customer service. As things stand, IoT will become a mandatory tool in every industry.

IoT, IoT in Banking

Advantages Of Using IoT In Banking

There are many advanced applications of IoT in banking and fintech. It has great potential to make more enhanced systems, but it’s sticking to the basics for now. Most IoT applications are very common and familiar to most people. Here are some examples:

  1. Real-time Feedback

IoT devices can gather intel from a bank’s user activity. Such data can help the management team understand the financial needs of different clients.

A smart IoT system can automatically send useful notifications. For example, the IoT network can notify the client when their balance is about to run out. The process can work automatically without human assistance.

  1. Identifying Fraudulent Activity

Fraudulent activities are very common in the banking scene, and they have increased significantly in the past decade. IoT in banking is a way to combat such fraud.

The biometric system can help reduce the scope of fraudulent activities to a large extent. However, some cases tend to slip through the gaps in the system. IoT management helps make clients aware of potential issues by sending notifications every time they make a transaction.

The user can flag a transaction as fraud, which will freeze their account until further action. That kind of fast action is only possible because of the real-time communication in the automated IoT system.

  1. Customer Service

Customer service is one of the primary usage cases of IoT technology. IoT gathers user data and monitors users’ various digital habits. That information is immensely valuable for customer service. Banks can use that information to provide personalized customer service to their clients.

It will act as a record of the client and their financial requirements. The banks can use that to suggest budget plans and other related things.

  1. Data Analytics

IoT’s most important contribution to any industry is improving analytical capacity. IoT is all about data. An IoT network can gather a mind-bogglingly high volume of data. Special automated software then processes the data and produces useful information for the industry.

Banks can use it to gather information on their clients. That is very helpful in the case of loans. Like the real estate industry, banks can use an IoT network to monitor the economic activity of potential load applicants.

IoT can also view trading data from various banking sources. The trading volume of private and government-issued bonds helps banks make better management-related decisions.

At [x]cube LABS, we leverage this data to create great customer journeys for better retention and engagement. This has helped many of our customers increase feature adoption and achieve increased loyalty for their businesses.

IoT, IoT in Banking

  1. Improved Security

Security is the most crucial aspect of the banking sector. It’s almost entirely built around people’s trust in a bank’s ability to keep their assets safe. IoT technology can improve the fundamental infrastructure of a bank’s security system.

For example, IoT technology can use any device to gather data. The only prerequisite is that the device must be able to send and receive network transmissions. The CCTV, Smart alarms, and other monitoring devices are perfect sources for gathering data.

Connecting all these monitoring devices to an IoT network will help with real-time monitoring. The machines used for the transaction can also be implemented with IoT. An IoT network will also make locking down the system in the case of a security breach easier.

  1. Smart Wallets

In the past decade, many wearables have been invented that can make payments. Fitness trackers, smart watches, wristbands, and jewelry have smart features. They can let you access your credit card or checking accounts from anywhere.

These devices can work fine on their own. But they won’t offer you any personalized features. The use of IoT is very prevalent in these devices. They collect data and make adjustments to certain features based on your habits. These devices can help you complete transactions faster with the help of IoT in banking.

  1. Automation

Automated systems can dramatically improve productivity in the banking industry. Banks can leverage the IoT system to create automated systems to automate daily functions. 

IoT systems can also make smart gadgets more effective. The IoT infrastructure is also the backbone of self-checkout systems.

Challenges Of IoT In The Banking Sector

There are still several issues with IoT technology in any field. Here are some examples of the primary problems with the IoT network:

  1. Security Issue

IoT systems offer increased protection on the client side, but it’s a different story for banks. The concept of IoT is relatively new, and there are no set standards yet. However, the most basic aspect is using many devices to gather data. 

Skilled hackers can exploit the fragile security of connected devices to harm the IoT network. They may not steal confidential information, but they can make the system give wrong feedback.

This list of devices is very broad. It can be humans with various gadgets, smart security cameras, ATM booths, etc. The problem with this system is that it’s impossible to secure all these devices with the same level of security. People can easily tamper with the feedback devices and give false data to the IoT network.

  1. Redundancy 

IoT produces a lot of data, a lot with a capital L. An industry as large and active as the banking industry will undoubtedly share this quality. 

The thing about data gathered through such means is that 90% of it is useless. Most of the data won’t give any beneficial information to the banks. So, it will take a lot of data processing to glean the useful bits.

  1. Problem With Homogeneity 

IoT technology is still relatively new. There are no international standards for homogenous system interface and compatibility. 

That makes it very hard to link devices from different manufacturers into the same IoT network.

Conclusion

The finance industry is going through a technological upheaval. Much new technology is being tested and added to the industry regularly. While some of that tech receives widespread recognition, some don’t quite make it. 

But it seems IoT in banking is one of the few that can have a large enough impact to change the dynamic of things.

VR in manufacturing
Blog, Manufacturing, Virtual Reality

The Applications of Virtual Reality in the Manufacturing Industry

VR in manufacturing

What’s the first thought that crosses your mind when you think about VR in the manufacturing industry? Since manufacturing is arguably the most physically intensive business and virtual reality is virtual, it sure sounds ridiculous. 

However, on a serious note, there are numerous virtual reality applications in the manufacturing sector. From the looks of it, it is only a matter of a few years before the manufacturing industry can function without the aid of VR.

In any case, implementing virtual reality applications has numerous advantages for the manufacturing sector. Typically, manufacturing facilities are enormous, intricate assemblages of diverse machinery that never stop. Even a small delay of one second can significantly impact the continuous flows and activities.

Testing, training, and maintenance are difficult to arrange under these circumstances since they frequently involve risks to the workers’ safety and disruptions of the manufacturing process. Much of the machinery used in production is hazardous and requires specialized training.

Here is where virtual reality truly shines. Manufacturing organizations can streamline their processes by transferring risky and challenging procedures to VR, which might even help them cut costs.

In this article, we will review virtual reality’s applications in the manufacturing industry.

VR in manufacturing

Uses of Virtual Reality in the Manufacturing Industry 

Floor Planning

Although floor planning is used throughout a wide range of sectors, not just manufacturing, it could be trickier and more challenging in this case. Planning the area for assembly lines or production workshops necessitates considering various elements, including equipment size, connections between components, safety distances, power outlets, supply line inputs, and many others.

Virtual reality makes it considerably simpler to plan the production floors. The makers may check that everything is appropriately positioned and wired by building virtual recreations of the actual locations and placing the equipment models.

Using virtual reality, they can check whether all equipment is easily accessible, all safety distances are maintained, and the production sequence is constructed in the proper order. Before physically shifting the equipment, businesses can optimize their floor space using virtual reality in manufacturing.

Hence, virtual reality can assist in lowering labor expenses and reducing worker or equipment harm.

Engineering and Design

The prototyping step is usually part of the design process in manufacturing. The new product prototype is ready to be examined, tried, and tested before being determined to be ready for production or in need of adjustment.

If the product is complicated machinery, the prototype could be quite expensive to create. Additionally, the cost of the prototype can increase if it needs more refinement. Shifting the prototype to virtual reality can offer immense benefits. The overall expenses can be less than creating a line of physical prototypes, even after accounting for the cost of developing the virtual reality app.

Safe Training

A fantastic way to use virtual reality in manufacturing is for training. Many businesses use VR training, but the industrial sector gains the most from this technology. There are strict rules regarding the learners’ safety when training for an extremely dangerous career.

Such training is frequently challenging to plan because, for starters, the students lack practical knowledge, which increases their risk of harm. On the other hand, using simulators offers few options and ultimately cannot accurately simulate the nature of the job.

In this instance, virtual reality exhibits its exceptional capacity to immerse the trainees in a realistic setting while eliminating the chance of injury.

Maintenance and Inspection

If we consider industrial equipment inspection, we must acknowledge that virtual reality can effectively erase time and space. Machines are becoming too complicated today for typical production workers to inspect.

Companies frequently need to invite experts from the facility that produced the equipment for any normal or emergency examination. Such inspection visits are typically expensive and require meticulous forethought and timing.

Since inspectors’ schedules are sometimes occupied for weeks, it could be challenging to schedule an appointment when a machine unexpectedly breaks down. Additionally, the inviting party frequently pays for airfare and lodging.

The factory can avoid sending the inspector to the machine using virtual reality. Instead, it can quickly deliver the machine to the inspector. The manufacturer can inspect the equipment remotely without calling an expert by making a VR video of the apparatus.

When travel time and costs are not factored into the calculation, inspections and remote maintenance can be completed in virtual reality far more quickly and with fewer interruptions to the production cycle.

VR in manufacturing

Business Events or Exhibitions

Heavy machinery manufacturers who present their products at trade shows and exhibits typically struggle to set up shop at the venue. The job is intricate and multifaceted. The maker must consider the machine’s shipping, connection, and use at the exposition.

A machine may require a large amount of space and weigh several tonnes, which results in additional expenses for renting the display area and loading and unloading. Where to get the object to show is another issue that equipment manufacturers may find problematic. Heavy equipment is typically produced in response to requests and is not idle.

Virtual reality can resolve all of these issues. Create a VR app that showcases your equipment, and you can downsize your exhibition space to a standard stand or booth. In virtual reality, you may display machinery and equipment of any size and complexity. Additionally, you may demonstrate the technology in action by inviting exhibition visitors to your VR room without endangering the guests.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are various ways that virtual reality is used in manufacturing, all of which have advantages. VR can be used as an extra test platform, a workshop, a conference room, or an exhibition stand because of its adaptability and virtually limitless options for constructing virtual places. Thanks to virtual reality, manufacturing could be safer, quicker, more precise, efficient, and less expensive.

Today, the manufacturing sector is embracing virtual reality in various ways. We think that industrial businesses can gain a significant competitive edge and improve the safety and productivity of their everyday operations by using VR-based apps.

IoT in retail
Blog, Internet of Things, Retail

The Impact of IoT on the Retail Business Today

IoT in retail

The retail industry is the actual litmus test for any country’s economy, and this industry is the first to be affected during any crisis. Thus, it is imperative to advance the Retail sector and make it even more profitable using digital means. In this current era, there is cut-throat competition among various retail stores. The ones adopting new edge technology in their system are benefiting and bound to achieve more remarkable milestones in the future. One such new edge technology is the Internet of Things or IoT.

IoT is a collection of small sensory devices connected to the internet. These devices help to gather and exchange data in real time with the help of embedded sensors. People and even businesses have started adopting IoT technologies, from the small infrared blaster in your phone to control remote devices to fire alarms in skyscrapers; all use sensory devices. According to Statista, the number of IoT-connected devices worldwide will increase to 25.44 Billion in the year 2030, so if someone wants to grow their business, it’s high time they implement IoT in their system.

How can IoT help a retail business?

The retail industry can achieve astonishing growth by embedding IoT in its system because it caters to a vast population, from general departmental stores to massive convenience stores. The benefits of IoT in retail are countless, and it can help take your business one level up. Some of the benefits are as listed: –

Enhanced Supply Chain Management

Optimizing the supply chain is imperative for a retailer because it improves efficiency and saves crucial business time. IoT is an ideal and cost-effective way to optimize the supply chain. Embedded with technologies like RFID and GPS, it provides the retailer visibility, and hence, they can now track the product’s location and monitor movements. Because of the greater visibility, the accuracy of projecting delivery time has also improved.

Implementing IoT in supply chain management allows retailers to select vendors, delivery partners, and even the delivery route based on operating cost and safety.

IoT in retail

Predictive Equipment Management

Equipment failure at any time, be it shipping or storage, leads to significant capital loss; it can also adversely affect business operations. When coupled with IoT, retail equipment becomes more effective and works for a longer duration. Any deviation from the ideal, such as temperature change or random vibrations, triggers an alert, and the store gets notified. Accordingly, it will help the retailer make better decisions, and hence, the equipment can be managed and used profitably for longer, saving unnecessary business expenses by using IoT.

Smart Shelves

A primary element to boost sales in a retail store is to focus on customer engagement. Smart shelves are such innovative IoT technology that grab customer attention. When a customer roams in a store and has a list of items he needs to buy on his mobile, the cell phone starts vibrating when he reaches the shelf where the item is placed. Such personalized experiences build a strong brand image and increase a business’s popularity.

Besides increasing customer experience, smart shelves with RFID tags and readers help collect customer buying. The store manager can later use this insight to manage stock accordingly.

Automated Checkout

After completing their purchase, customers often have to stand in long queues for payment and checkouts. No one likes to wait, and sometimes it may go downhill in customer experience; automated checkouts help tackle this situation. With IoT-enabled automated checkouts, customers only have to scan the product’s barcode without assistance, making the process quick and boosting customer satisfaction. Even retailers can save on excess costs as automated checkout requires less assistance. Only 2-3 individuals can guide the customer if they need help; this means retailers can reduce the workforce size.

Food safety monitoring

Maintaining the freshness of food items is critically important in the perishable goods business, and a minor failure to do so may result in a considerable revenue loss. IoT can be a lifesaver, as a retailer can control the temperature of storage spaces, and installing sensors will notify the retailer if the temperature rises or falls below the threshold limit.

IoT in food safety reduces the chances of error and saves costs, as it requires less human interaction. Further real-time monitoring will eventually increase the life of perishable food items.

It is clear that the retail industry is changing, and IoT will be crucial to leveraging its true potential. Apart from the mentioned benefits, IoT also helps in tracking the most sold product in a convenience store, analyzing consumers’ buying patterns, providing better customer service, installing beacons, and much more.

A retail business can also create a brand image by using numerous IoT sensors that keep track of temperature, location, humidity, etc. They can modify them to serve customer needs better. Not only that, but managing the inventory smartly, logistics enhancement with embedded IoT devices, even controlling and managing the energy using IoT gadgets, increasing customer engagement with smart shopping carts, and much more.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that the Retail industry is changing, and implementing IoT-embedded devices is crucial for a business to grow. Most stores will adopt IoT technology in the coming years and witness how it has improved customer satisfaction, product handling, and supply chain management. On the contrary, retailers who don’t innovate may experience a loss in their customer base.

Any retail business that requires handling a wide variety and range of products must embed IoT to keep real-time track of its products. Business leaders can choose a digital solutions partner to implement IoT as it will help them save costs and time.

IoT examples
Blog, Internet of Things

Top 10 Examples Of How The Internet Of Things Is Impacting Our Daily Lives

IoT examples

IoT is an exciting innovation in the world of technology. You must’ve come across this term and wondered what it means. 

Our smartphones, Fitbits, and sensors are all examples of IoT devices. The interrelation among these devices creates a self-sustaining network requiring no human intervention. And that is how the IoT works. Read on to learn more about IoT and some top examples of IoT that are all around us. 

What Is The Internet Of Things? 

Various devices, machines, and objects come together to form the Internet of Things (IoT). These elements can exchange and process information between themselves, almost always via the Internet. 

IoT is much different from typical machine-to-machine communication. Let’s consider regular M2M communication. Here, data is sent from point A to point B. And that’s it. The devices can’t do anything else with it. 

In contrast, IoT devices can do so much more with the data. They can communicate the data in versatile ways. The system can also analyze and act upon the data it generates. 

IoT systems differ significantly depending on the sector they serve. However, a shared internet network is standard in all scenarios. Modern IoT also involves artificial intelligence, which makes IoT devices smarter and more independent. 

Most Important Examples Of the Internet Of Things 

Our lives are submerged in various Internet of Things examples. Examples of IoT are so abundant that most of us take them for granted. Take your smart home system, for example. You may also think about the sensors at the grocery store. The Fitbit measuring your pulse is also an IoT example. Let’s sort them out in the following discussion. 

  1. Home Management 

Smart homes are among the most exciting examples of IoT. Plus, they are the ones you interact with directly. Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub are top examples of smart home systems. These IoT devices and systems make home management easier and more enjoyable. 

In addition, such IoT devices help you to conduct online shopping via voice commands. These smart-systems can also protect your house from fire incidents or burglary. The cameras and sensors help with that. Smart home systems help with water and electricity management, too. 

IoT examples

  1. IoT In Healthcare 

IoT is becoming increasingly important in the healthcare system. Wearable IoT devices like Fitbit can monitor your vital signs 24/7. Therefore, they can quickly identify an emergency like an asthma attack or heart failure and immediately notify local authorities via the Internet. 

So, IoT devices can save your life during emergencies. They can also help you maintain health. For instance, wearable devices can keep track of how many steps you walked today. It can then calculate the calories you burn and give you a goal. 

Consistent monitoring of your vitals has many benefits. For instance, it helps detect any significant disease at the earliest stage. 

IoT examples

  1. Increasing Business Productivity 

A business owner must ensure that customers receive their orders on time. To do that, you must monitor and track any ongoing delivery process in real time. Well, IoT has made this possible for business managers. The interrelation between computers and IoT devices on the road can help you track your customer order effortlessly. 

Business data analysis is another major contributor to its success. However, manually collecting, storing, and analyzing such massive data sets was impossible, but IoT changed that. 

Business owners can now analyze their business data better than ever before. Consequently, they can gain valuable insights into their operation and apply this knowledge to improve productivity later. 

  1. Traffic Management 

IoT has revolutionized how our cars navigate the roads. With further advancements in IoT technologies, traffic jams can become a thing of the past. Moreover, IoT can also reduce the number of road accidents. Plus, effective management can help save fuel, decrease carbon footprint, and save time. 

Google Maps and similar applications are the best examples of IoT in traffic management. Here, your smartphones work like sensors. They exchange information about the roads between themselves. As a result, all the vehicles can sync with each other and reduce traffic jams. 

  1. Retail Management

IoT has significantly improved the retail experience. For instance, proper inventory management is crucial for retailers. IoT systems can help with logistics and warehouse management, as these activities mostly require the effective collection, storage, and presentation of data. 

IoT devices like barcode readers and sensors are remarkable in smart retail. They are helpful for both customers and salespersons. These devices can instantly send and store sales information on the cloud. This happens automatically as you put things in or out of the shopping cart. As a result, you can save time and have a better retail experience. 

  1. IoT in Agriculture 

The Internet of Things can significantly increase farming success. Farmers can get a lot of helpful information through IoT devices. For instance, IoT sensors can tell them about the moisture and acidity levels in the soil. It can precisely explain agricultural lands’ chemical characteristics and nutrient levels. 

As a result, farmers can now make better-informed decisions than in the past. Plus, data-driven insights from the IoT systems can further help with farming commitments. These systems can also tell you the best time for sowing the crops. Advanced devices can alarm the farmer about plant diseases beforehand. 

  1. Saving Energy

Smart power grids are among the most critical “examples of the Internet of Things.” IoT device examples in the energy sector include meters equipped with AI and sensors. Authorities can exercise more control over the network by strategically placing these devices, which can contribute to energy conservation. 

IoT insights can help identify various faults in the electric network. As a result, repairs and improvements are possible as soon as possible. IoT systems can also identify patterns in consumer behavior. Based on those findings, you can adjust your usage to save electricity. 

  1. Water Management 

IoT devices can be tremendously helpful in water management. The basic technology is sensors. You can incorporate an IoT sensor into a water meter. The sensor shall also have associated software. Together, the system collects and stores data via the Internet. Later, you can analyze it to visualize the local water consumption pattern. 

You can use these data to find more effective solutions for water problems in that area. Also, you will monitor the water system in real-time through a web page. This helps you detect leaks and faults in the system, preventing wastage and shortages. 

  1. Industrial Internet of Things  

IoT is helping various industries to increase their productivity. For instance, IoT helps factory owners to control industrial devices from remote locations. In addition, you can get crucial data-driven insights about your factory. 

These systems make factory management effortless. Because monitoring factories in different locations from one interface becomes possible, you can also track expenses, profits, transportation, and workers in more detail. 

  1. Smart Cities

With the advancement of IoT, smart cities are becoming common. IoT devices and systems manage all the essential human needs in these urban areas. In a Smart City- Smart grids, water supply, IoT-based traffic management, and similar elements- all come together. 

Smart cities aim to provide a better urban experience at a reduced cost, and IoT is playing a significant role in making this possible. 

Conclusion

Internet of Things examples are abundant around us. These devices are making our lives easier and safer, and they also help us make the best use of our resources. 

However, this article’s “Examples of Internet of Things” are inconclusive because the future of technology holds many other promises.

Blockchain, Blockchain gaming
Blockchain, Blog, Gamification

How is Blockchain Impacting the Gaming Industry?

Blockchain, Blockchain gaming

Table of contents

Industry Overview

Gaming has always been a part of an individual’s fun life; whenever someone feels like having adventure and enjoyment, they think about games. But gaming is not only a fun activity; it is a $198.40 billion industry as of 2021. This industry is growing unprecedentedly and is expected to reach a $339.95 billion value by 2027.

The gaming industry has changed from playing NES games like Mario and Bomberman. It is now much more engaging and is close to real-world scenarios. Previously, we had a predecided task that the character used to perform, but now the functions and nature depend on the person controlling it. Popular games are mostly multiplayer titles such as PUBG or embed virtual reality to improve engagement like Beat Saber.

Blockchain

Blockchain is a decentralized database, meaning that the system is not restricted to a single device but is shared across different connected devices. It maintains the transactional records usually made in any cryptocurrency; it guarantees the security of transactions and builds trust as it does not involve any third party.

Blockchain in Gaming

Nowadays, games that provide a chance to earn money or play-to-earn games are becoming popular. Blockchain can potentially revolutionize this aspect of the gaming industry in this era. However, Blockchain is not just about money; it is a much bigger domain, with gaming being one of the most popular. It can change the future of gaming and how they are created, maintained, and played.

In gaming, a person has some transparent digital assets, similar to crypto coins like Bitcoins or any other cryptocurrency. These assets are better known as NFTs. One can own these NFTs just as one owns any other cryptocurrency and transfer them inside and outside the gaming wallet.

Blockchain, Blockchain gaming

NFTs

NFT can be anything that belongs to you in a game; for example, it can be a gun, sword, property, sticker, etc. These assets can be yours forever if you own them and decide not to sell them. Based on the game, the items can be classified as common, rare, epic, etc. Epic and Legendary items are generally the most irregular and limited, too, which means only a handful of them are created. Hence, they can earn superior value if you decide to sell them.

The magic of NFT is that it will never cease to exist even if the game crashes or suddenly stops working; this is because NFTs are blockchain currency, and they will live on other connected devices even if your machine abruptly stops.

Benefits that Blockchain brings to gaming

Implementing Blockchain in gaming is going to be accessible as gamers already buy in-game items using real as well as virtual money. It can be a go-through in effectively connecting video games with cryptocurrency.

  • Securing the gaming industry

    Blockchain improves security and makes hackers’ tasks almost impossible because it implements a decentralized mechanism and highly advanced data encryption methods. This is a win-win situation for developers and gamers, as hackers can’t attack a decentralized platform.

  • Advanced integrated gaming profiles

    Usually, a gaming platform requires a user to create a new profile to access the game, but with Blockchain games, a user needs to generate only a single profile that can be used for most of the games and thus provides a hassle-free experience.

    This integrated profile can track user performance across various games and help compete with other gamers’ profiles.

  • Enhancing payment methods

    In the past, we have witnessed various major gaming networks breached and information being leaked online; cryptocurrency is a solution to this problem as it is highly secured and private.

    Blockchain gaming offers a seamless transaction experience.

  • Securing the in-game asset ownership

    Blockchain brings transparency to the gaming industry and secures and enhances in-game asset ownership. Blockchain technology uses irreversible smart contracts and runs on pre-programmed parameters, helping manage players’ assets. Yet another benefit is no involvement of central authority.

Parting Remarks

Combining cryptocurrency and video games is the way to go, and Blockchain can effectively merge these platforms to create a secure, more enjoyable, and seamless gaming experience. Some such games already exist, but we will see a surge in this type of gaming in the coming years, and soon, they will become the new normal.

Blockchain will make the gaming industry more enjoyable by keeping unethical troublemakers out. So keep calm. Soon, blockchain will revolutionize the gaming industry, and we will witness a new gaming era.

IoT, IIoT
Blog, Internet of Things

The Impact of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

IoT, IIoT

With the rise of IoT usage, there has been a significant increase in the use of IoT inside industrial sectors. This is referred to as the IIoT or Industrial IoT. This impact is undeniable, and it is changing the face of these industries for the better. It makes everything much more efficient, and we can say that it’s here to stay. 

So, what is IIoT, and why is it so important? We will discuss these questions in the best part of this article. So, without further ado, let’s get right to it. 

What’s the Difference Between IoT and IIoT?

IIoT stands for Industrial Internet of Things, whereas IoT stands for the Internet of 

Things. IIoT can be considered an extension or application of IoT in the industrial sector. You might interact with IoT devices daily, using sensors and software to communicate with other devices across communication networks. 

It refers to the system of multiple devices that can communicate with each other to make your life easier. A good example would be your SMART TV or your Alexa. When you tell Alexa to turn on your TV, it communicates with the other device to turn it on by processing its environmental data. 

Industrial IoT, on the other hand, is a bit more complex and refers to incorporating these smart devices in industrial processes in the medical or manufacturing sectors, for instance. It goes beyond simple, smart devices and is more of an intersection between IT or Information Technology and Operational Technology or OT. 

These include human-machine interfaces, distributed control systems, programmable logic controllers, etc. Especially in the healthcare sector, the inclusion of IoT is making fantastic progress for doctors and patients alike. 

Whereas IoT is meant to help you manage home appliances more efficiently and save energy or electricity within homes, IIoT focuses on building better systems in health care, aerospace, and automation factories. An excellent example of IIoT devices is smart robotics inside Amazon warehouses to move and store goods more efficiently. 

Benefits of IIoT

IoT, IIoT

To keep up with the hundreds of other companies, industries must be the best at meeting ever-changing market demands in a fast-paced marketplace. The use of IIoT in these processes gives businesses the edge they need. Whether it be a decrease in production and delivery times or an increase in quality and precision, IIoT has many benefits. 

Here are some of how IIoT is changing the industry forever. 

  • Better Data Competence

More and more companies are taking the IIoT leap, using their data better to make their processes more efficient. Data is an integral part of the IIoT movement, and things like Cloud Computing and Edge Computing are helping these industries develop better, more efficient ways to manage their data. 

With long-term data, for instance, these systems recognize trends and make more accurate predictions of demand or customer behavior. Thus, they allow businesses to manage their resources better and know what to expect. 

On the other hand, by using sensors and robotics in each space in places like warehouses, you get real-time data that allows you to have a much better idea of inventory and know exactly what’s going on in your factory without even having to be present. 

With systems notifying you of any changes or risks in present data and algorithms suggesting which decisions to make based on past data, IIoT reduces errors everywhere and saves businesses a lot of money. 

  • Increase in Accuracy 

Robots are taking over, especially in the manufacturing sectors, and this is a much better thing than you thought it would be. This reduces human errors, and machines working on AI can make much better decisions regarding manufacturing processes. 

By implementing sensors and robots into the existing traditional manufacturing processes, you can gain better control of all the processes going on. CNC machining is an excellent example of the use of intelligent machinery, where computer-controlled machines can give you much better precision in cutting manufacturing parts that were impossible manually. 

Since these machines are usually used to manufacture aerospace machine parts, where even a tiny difference in the physical dynamics of the piece can cause a colossal failure, intelligent machinery is a lifesaver. 

Impact of IIoT

As IIoT is becoming increasingly popular in the industrial sector, its impact, especially in manufacturing, is undeniable. IIoT is the face of the fourth industrial revolution. By interconnecting devices within the industry and using data and real-time analytics to make better decisions, IIoT allows for better data visibility, exchange, and collection. 

A recent report revealed that by 2020 the number of connected smart devices for IIoT devices in the world has risen to more than 20.4 billion. More than 60% of manufacturers now use connected products to analyze their data better and increase productivity. 

Manufacturers using IIoT in their daily processes are expected to make more than 10% more profits than those without. It is revolutionizing not only the manufacturing industry but also the medical sector. Artificial Intelligence has given a much-needed revamp to the healthcare industry. 

There is a considerable system of IoT in this sector, from robot-assisted surgeries, where doctors can perform much more delicate surgeries with the precision of computer-controlled machines, to an interconnected record system that prints out prescriptions automatically. 

IoT, IIoT

AI-controlled virtual assistants are helping nurses free up more than 20% of their time to focus on more critical tasks and improve their work-life balance. These IIoT systems are also helping to reduce errors and misdiagnoses in the medical field. It uses previous data of other patients to find trends and give better diagnosis predictions to help doctors. 

As IIoT solutions increase, more and more industries are finding a use for them. But this also raises concerns about IIoT security. With many devices integral to these industries’ working systems connected to the Internet, they are much more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

Different IIoT platforms have other issues, but increasingly, IIoT companies are taking this very seriously and developing ways to protect your privacy. The main concern with IoT and IoT devices was that you were giving up your privacy.

 In using these systems, you are giving access to vast amounts of data to these IIoT sensors that third parties can hack into and access. However, as concern over privacy and security grows with the increased use of these devices across various sectors, more and more security solutions are also coming up. 

Time will only tell the cost of giving up your privacy for convenience. But it is here to stay and is just the beginning of this revolution. 

Conclusion

IIoT, or Industrial IoT, is the flagship of the fourth industrial revolution, forever changing the face of manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries. Incorporating IIoT can help save you time and money, increase your profits, and improve the quality of your products and services, as we at [x]cube LABS have helped multiple global enterprises do.

IoT, IoT in Healthcare
Blog, Internet of Things

How IoT is Transforming the Healthcare Industry

IoT, IoT in Healthcare

Healthcare is one of the most rapidly changing industries in the world today, and advances in technology are driving much of that change. The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the most important technological developments in recent years, and it’s had a major impact on healthcare.

What is IoT in healthcare?

IoT in healthcare refers to using connected devices and sensors to collect and exchange data. This data can improve patient care, manage chronic conditions, and reduce costs.

How does IoT work in healthcare?

IoT in healthcare is transformative in several ways. It’s making it possible for patients to be more actively involved in their care and giving providers new tools to improve patient outcomes. IoT is also helping to make healthcare more cost-effective by reducing the need for expensive and invasive procedures.

In this blog post, we’ll examine how IoT in healthcare is transforming the industry and how it’s poised to change the sector even more in the years to come.

IoT Applications in Healthcare

IoT is Transforming Patient Care

One of the most important applications of IoT in healthcare is how it’s changing how patient care is delivered. IoT devices are giving patients more control over their health and making it possible for them to be more involved in their own care.

IoT devices also give healthcare providers new insights into their patients’ health. IoT devices can track various health data points, including heart rate, blood pressure, and activity level. This data can be used to identify health problems early and make necessary changes to treatment plans.

IoT is Making Healthcare More Cost-Effective

Another impact of IoT in healthcare is its cost-effectiveness. IoT devices can help reduce the need for expensive and invasive procedures. For example, IoT-enabled devices can be used for remote patient monitoring. This can reduce the need for hospital visits and make it possible to treat patients in their own homes.

IoT in healthcare also makes it possible to collect data that can be used to improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery. This data can be used to identify inefficiencies and make changes that will save time and money. In return, these savings can be passed on to patients through lower costs, making healthcare more affordable.

IoT, IoT in Healthcare

IoT is Making Healthcare More Accessible

IoT in healthcare also makes the industry more accessible, especially in rural and underserved areas. IoT devices can provide remote patient monitoring and care, making it possible for patients in rural areas to receive the care they need without having to travel long distances.

IoT is also making it possible to provide healthcare services in new and innovative ways. For example, some companies use drones to deliver medical supplies to remote areas. This can allow patients in these areas to receive the care they need without having to travel long distances.

IoT is Making Healthcare More Personalized

IoT in healthcare is also making services more personalized. IoT devices can collect data about a patient’s health and tailor treatment plans to individual patients. This personalized approach to healthcare can improve patient outcomes and provide the best possible care.

The availability of data is one of the most important factors driving the transformation of healthcare. IoT devices generate a vast amount of data, which is used to improve the quality of care and make it more cost-effective.

IoT is Making Healthcare More Efficient

IoT in healthcare is making systems more efficient. The data generated by IoT devices is being used to identify inefficiencies in the healthcare system and make changes that will save time and money.

For example, some hospitals use IoT data to track how often certain procedures are performed. This data can be used to make changes that will reduce the need for these procedures.

IoT is also being used to improve care coordination. IoT devices can collect data about a patient’s health and share this data with the patient’s care team. This information can be used to ensure that the patient is getting the care they need and that the care team is working together effectively.

IoT is Making Healthcare More Connected

IoT in healthcare is making facilities and machinery more connected. IoT devices can be used to connect patients, caregivers, and doctors. This can make it possible to share information and coordinate care more effectively. It can also make it possible for patients to receive care from various providers.

IoT also makes it possible to connect healthcare providers. This can make it easier for healthcare providers to share best practices and find new ways to improve the quality of care. In addition, this connectivity can make it easier for healthcare providers to find and use new technology.

IoT, IoT in Healthcare

IoT is Making Healthcare More Sustainable

IoT is also making healthcare more sustainable. IoT devices can reduce the need for resources such as water and electricity. For example, some hospitals are using IoT-enabled devices to monitor water usage. This data can be used to make changes that will reduce the amount of water used.

IoT also makes it possible to reuse and recycle resources. For example, some hospitals are using IoT-enabled devices to track the use of disposable medical supplies. This data can be used to make changes that will reduce the amount of waste produced.

IoT is Improving Patient Outcomes

Finally, IoT in healthcare is transforming the sector by improving patient outcomes. IoT data can be used to identify trends and make changes that can improve patient outcomes. For example, if a medication is not working well for a particular patient, the data collected by an IoT device can change the treatment plan.

In addition, IoT devices can be used to monitor patients after they leave the hospital. This data can be used to ensure that patients take their medications as prescribed and make the necessary lifestyle changes. By doing so, IoT can help to improve long-term patient outcomes.

IoT is Poised to Change Healthcare Even More in the Future

IoT is already having a major impact on healthcare, and it’s poised to change the industry even more. As IoT devices become more sophisticated and widely used, we expect to see even more transformative changes in healthcare.

IoT will continue to make patient care more personalized and effective. IoT data will also become increasingly important in making decisions about healthcare delivery. As IoT devices become more widely used, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of IoT in healthcare. As a result, IoT is likely to have a major impact on how we live and receive healthcare.

It’s an exciting time to be in the healthcare industry, and IoT is poised to make a huge impact.

Conclusion

We live in a world that is becoming increasingly connected. IoT devices are playing a major role in this connectivity, transforming healthcare. Applications of IoT in healthcare are making healthcare more connected, sustainable, and effective. And as IoT devices become more sophisticated, we can expect to see even more transformative changes in healthcare.

Healthcare providers who embrace IoT will be well-positioned to deliver the best possible care to their patients. The healthcare industry is truly experiencing an exciting time, and IoT is poised to make a huge impact.

IoT, IoT in Office
Blog, Internet of Things

Transforming Workplaces with IoT

IoT, IoT in Office

The Internet of Things is paving a new path by transforming how businesses function and is already playing a significant role in healthcare, manufacturing, retail, agriculture, security, etc. The benefits of IoT in the mentioned sectors are visible and popularly known. Still, there are specific sectors apart from these where IoT is expanding, and one such sector is IoT at workplaces.

IoT in the workplace is a growing area, the market size of smart offices was around $31.37 billion in 2020, and it is projected to triple over a decade to reach approximately $90.63 by the end of 2030. IoT in the workplace gained momentum after the pandemic, which led offices to work online initially, and later most offices shifted to hybrid mode. This blog will help you explore areas where IoT can benefit a workplace.

Reducing Operational Costs

Data is the new fuel; with the help of data – offices and organizations can save valuable time and money. IoT sensors capture real-time data that can be used to maintain energy consumption; this solves the problem of overheating or insufficient heating; it also tells whether the cubicles have adequate lighting and helps eliminate other wasteful habits. 

Occupancy data can also help an organization build spacious offices to accommodate more people and ultimately reduce rents. Furthermore, the data collected from the sensors notify the organization about periodic maintenance so the business will not face any unexpected downtime by scheduling timely fixes.

Improving Work Safety

Imaging sensors installed at the entrance and exit allow only authorized personnel to enter the office premise. IoT embedded cameras and motion sensors help prevent office theft which costs around $50 billion annually in the US alone, thus making the workplace safe. This safety promotes the organization’s goodwill and makes it more appealing to work. We can reduce human error by using smart gadgets in numerous operations. 

Using sensors makes following COVID protocols at a workplace easy; this helps in real-time tracking and monitoring. Face ID and RFID cards reduce the risk of physical contact and lessen the check-in and check-out process time.

IoT, IoT in Office

Enhancing Customer Experience

Good quality products or services are not the only things that develop brand loyalty; overall customer experience begins with the customer’s interaction with the organization and continues through after-sales services. If an organization uses IoT in its offices, it increases customer involvement and makes it appealing. Furthermore, it improves security, and thus, the customer develops a strong emotional bond with the firm.

IoT devices remind customers about maintenance and offers. These devices collect data from multiple touchpoints, improving positive interactions and eliminating negative ones. 

Increasing Employee Engagement

Besides appealing to the customers, an interactive smart office also increases employee engagement. IoT sensors collect real-time data and can perform repetitive tasks independently, reducing the manual work the employee has to perform otherwise. It boosts efficiency and reduces the waiting time; hence, employees’ work-life experience positively increases.

Instead of relying on regular video calls, one can use IoT-embedded robots to have a great engagement session. These intelligent sensing gadgets can give a virtual look at the real-time activities in the office; if augmented reality is used in parallel with IoT devices, the experience can be improved many folds. 

Decreasing Carbon Footprint

With the help of IoT devices, an organization can reduce its carbon footprint and become part of a sustainable workspace. IoT sensors optimize energy utilization and consumption at the workplace. Collaboration tools can reduce CO2 emissions from transportation by reducing business travel frequency. Smart waste management systems help filter out degradable and biodegradable waste, which helps maintain hygiene in the workplace. These sustainable steps benefit the environment and build strong trust and goodwill.

Conclusion

IoT in the workplace can improve the employee and customer experience, enhancing productivity and attractiveness. The hybrid office model will be dominant in various businesses, and in this model, IoT-embedded systems will play a crucial role in uplifting employee engagement. Technology is advancing rapidly, and the smart office will become the new normal in no time. Adapting to this technology will increase your appeal factor and build long-lasting bonds. An office can take help from IoT service providers to save valuable time and cost to set foot on this exciting journey.

IoT, IoT Security
Blog, Internet of Things

The Importance of IoT Security and Best Practices for Implementation

IoT, IoT Security

Nowadays, the Internet of Things (IoT) is growing exponentially, with new devices and applications being added every day. This increase in connectivity has led to a corresponding increase in the potential for security breaches. Just as our traditional computer networks are vulnerable to attack, so are IoT networks.

IoT security issues are often caused by a lack of security awareness by manufacturers and users. Many IoT devices are shipped with little or no security measures, and users are often unaware of the risks involved in using them. As a result, IoT devices are frequently left wide open to attack.

IoT device security is important for two main reasons: first, to protect the device itself from being hacked or taken over by an attacker, and second, to protect the data that the device collects and transmits. If an IoT device is hacked, the attacker may be able to gain access to sensitive data or use the device to launch attacks on other devices on the network.

So, why is it so important to ensure IoT security?

There are several reasons why securing your IoT solutions is important:

  1. To protect your devices from being hacked or taken over by an attacker

    It is important to secure your IoT devices to prevent them from being hacked or taken over by an attacker. If an attacker compromises a device’s Internet of Things security, they may be able to use it to launch attacks on other devices on the network or gain access to sensitive data. This could have serious consequences for both your network’s security and your data’s privacy.

  2. To protect the data that your devices collect and transmit

    If an IoT device is hacked, the attacker may gain access to the sensitive data that the device collects and transmits. This could include personal data, such as credit card numbers home addresses, or confidential business data. It could also include data that could be used to launch attacks on other devices on the network. The data collected by IoT devices can also be used to create detailed profiles of individuals, which could be used for identity theft or other malicious purposes.

  3. To protect your devices from being used in attacks on other devices

    If an attacker gains control of an IoT device, they may be able to use it to launch attacks on other devices on the network. It could include denial of service attacks, which could render a device or service unavailable, or data breaches, in which sensitive data is stolen from a device. Using the stolen data, the attacker could gain access to other devices on the network or commit fraud. This can potentially have a devastating impact on businesses and individuals alike. We will discuss how to go about planning IoT device security shortly.

    IoT, IoT Security

  4. To protect your devices from being used in attacks on your business

    If an attacker gains control of an IoT device, they may be able to use it to launch attacks on your business. This could include denial of service attacks, which could render your website or email unavailable, or data breaches, in which sensitive data is stolen from your devices. Many businesses rely on IoT devices to run their operations, and IoT security issues could significantly impact the industry.

  5. To protect your business from the reputational damage that IoT security breaches can cause

    IoT security breaches can cause reputational damage to your business. If sensitive data is stolen from your devices, or if your devices are used to launch attacks on other companies, this could damage your business’s reputation. People may be less likely to do business with you if they perceive your business as insecure and vulnerable to attack. At the same time, you may also be liable for any damages caused by your devices, such as data breaches or denial of service attacks.

  6. To comply with data protection and privacy laws

    If your business processes personal data, you will need to comply with data protection and privacy laws. These laws may require you to take steps to secure the personal data that you process, such as encrypting it or ensuring that it is stored securely, which IoT security ensures. It’s crucial that you comply with these laws, as failure to do so could result in fines or other penalties.

  7. To protect your investment in IoT

    If you’re investing in the Internet of Things, you’ll want to protect your investment with IoT security. This includes ensuring that your devices are secure and that you’re not exposing yourself to undue risk. By taking steps to secure your IoT solutions, you can help protect your investment and ensure that your business can reap the benefits of IoT.

    Now that we’ve looked at some of the reasons why IoT security should be a priority, let’s look at how you can go about it.

IoT, IoT Security

To protect your IoT solutions from these risks, it is important to implement IoT security measures at every stage of the development process, from design to deployment.

When designing your IoT solutions, you should consider the security risks that could impact your devices and data and implement measures to mitigate these risks. For example, you should consider using encryption to protect sensitive data and implementing authentication measures to ensure that only authorized users can access your devices.

When deploying your IoT solutions, you should ensure that your devices are correctly configured and that IoT security measures are in place. You must ensure your devices are correctly configured to use encryption and connected to a secure network.

You should also put in place measures to monitor your solutions for IoT security breaches and respond quickly if a violation is detected. For instance, you should have an IoT security incident response plan to quickly and effectively respond to a violation. Keeping your solutions updated with the latest IoT security patches is also important.

In short, there are several steps that manufacturers and users can take to improve IoT security. These include:

  • Ensuring that devices are correctly configured and updated with the latest security patches;
  • Using strong passwords and two-factor authentication;
  • Using encryption to protect data in transit;
  • Disabling unnecessary features and ports; and
  • Regularly monitoring devices for signs of intrusion.

Conclusion

As the IoT continues to grow in popularity, it is important to be aware of the security risks associated with it. Internet of Things security is important for businesses and users alike. By taking steps to secure your IoT solutions, you can help protect your business and your customers from these risks.

Reviewing your security measures occasionally might be a good idea, as the IoT landscape is constantly evolving. As new threats emerge, you must ensure that your IoT security measures are up-to-date and effective.

If you’re not sure where to start, an IoT security solution provider such as [x]cube LABS can help you to assess the security risks that apply to your business and put in place appropriate measures to mitigate these risks.

IoT, IoT Devices
Blog, Internet of Things

What are IoT devices and how are they used across various industries?

IoT, IoT Devices

Table of contents

Introduction

We live in a world where technology is becoming increasingly intertwined with our daily lives. It’s no longer just our laptops, smartphones, and tablets that are connected to the internet—now, our homes, cars, and even our clothes can be, too. This interconnectedness is made possible by the Internet of Things (IoT), a network of physical objects equipped with sensors and software that allow them to collect and exchange data.

IoT devices have the potential to transform the way we live and work. They can make our lives more convenient and help us be more efficient. They can also help us save money and improve the quality of our lives.

IoT devices are connected to the internet and can collect, send, and receive data. They can be anything from fitness trackers to industrial machines. IoT devices are used across various industries and are becoming more and more commonplace. At [x]cube LABS, we have helped global enterprises deliver great value to their consumers with IoT devices, and in this blog post, we will talk about how IoT devices are used in different industries. We will also give some examples of IoT devices being used in each sector.

  1. Healthcare

    IoT devices are being used in healthcare to provide better patient care and improve the efficiency of healthcare organizations. They can monitor patients’ vital signs, track their medication adherence, and collect data about their health. IoT devices can also provide remote patient monitoring, track medical equipment, and support clinical research.

    Many different types of IoT devices are being used in healthcare. Some of the most common types include wearable devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches; medical devices, such as pacemakers and insulin pumps; and hospital equipment, such as IV pumps and ventilators. All these devices collect data that can be used to improve patient care and make healthcare organizations more efficient.

  2. Manufacturing

    IoT devices are being used in manufacturing to improve the efficiency of production lines and reduce waste. They can also track product production, monitor machinery conditions, and control the flow of materials. They can also provide data about product quality and improve worker safety.

    The industrial sensor is one of the most common types of IoT devices used in manufacturing. Industrial sensors monitor product production, machinery condition, and material flow. They can also provide data about product quality and improve workers’ safety. The availability of data from industrial sensors helps manufacturers improve the efficiency of production lines and reduce waste.

    IoT, IoT Devices

  3. Retail

    IoT devices are being used in retail to improve the customer experience and increase sales. They can track inventory, provide customer loyalty programs, and collect data about customer behavior. They can also provide personalized recommendations, targeted promotions, and real-time customer support.

    IoT devices are changing the retail sector in several ways. One of the most important is that they are providing retailers with real-time data about their customers’ behavior. This data allows retailers to provide a more personalized shopping experience. IoT devices are also being used to improve the efficiency of retail operations, such as inventory management and customer loyalty programs.

  4. Transportation

    IoT devices are being used in transportation to improve the safety of drivers and reduce traffic congestion. IoT devices can monitor vehicles’ condition, track their location, and control their speed. IoT devices can also be used to provide data about traffic conditions and improve transportation systems’ efficiency.

    One of the most common types of IoT devices used in transportation is the GPS tracker. GPS trackers monitor vehicle locations, speed, and movement and can also provide data about traffic conditions and improve transportation systems’ efficiency.

  5. Agriculture

    In recent years, agriculture has become increasingly reliant on IoT devices. These devices are being used to improve crop yields and reduce the amount of water and fertilizer used. They can also be utilized to monitor crop conditions, track farm animals’ location, and control irrigation water flow.

    These innovations are helping farmers increase their crop yields and reduce the amount of water and fertilizer they use. The data collected by IoT devices is also helping farmers make more informed decisions about planting, irrigation, and crop maintenance.

  6. Smart Homes

    Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular, and IoT devices are the backbone of these systems. IoT devices are being used in homes to improve the home’s security, reduce energy consumption, and improve the quality of life. They can be used to monitor the home’s condition, track family members’ location, and control home appliances’ operation. What’s more, IoT devices can also provide data about the air quality, which can be used to improve the efficiency of home security systems. In the future, IoT devices will become an integral part of the smart home, and they will be used to control various home appliances and systems.

    IoT, IoT Devices

  7. Aviation

    The aviation industry is using IoT devices extensively. It is one of the most heavily regulated industries in the world, and IoT devices are being used to improve the safety of passengers and crew members.

    IoT is changing the aviation industry by providing data that can be used to improve the safety of pilots and passengers. IoT devices can monitor aircraft conditions, track their location, and control their speed. IoT devices can also provide data about weather conditions and improve aviation operations’ efficiency, which can ultimately lead to lower airfare prices.

  8. Energy

    The energy sector also utilizes IoT for a variety of applications. One way that IoT is changing the energy sector is by providing data that can improve the efficiency of energy production and consumption.

    They are being used to improve the efficiency of power generation and distribution. IoT devices can monitor the condition of power plants, track the location of power lines, and control the flow of electricity. By using IoT devices to monitor and optimize the power grid, energy companies can reduce the amount of power that is wasted and ultimately lower consumers’ energy bills.

Conclusion

IoT devices are changing the world in some ways. They provide data that can be used to improve the efficiency of operations in various industries, from retail to transportation to agriculture. IoT devices will likely become an increasingly important part of our lives due to the efficiency and data they can provide.

Mobile app design
Blog, Mobility

Best Practices to Follow While Designing your Mobile Application

Mobile app design

Table of contents

Introduction

In this ever-evolving world, businesses are growing at an overwhelming rate. Bringing in more customers is one thing, but keeping the existing customers in the loop has also become challenging. Enterprises have now entered the digital space to increase the quality of customer experience (CX) and improve customer satisfaction. One such profound digital space is a mobile application.

Almost every individual now owns a smartphone. It contains many mobile applications; these applications serve as an excellent opportunity for any business to connect with customers and make your firm well renowned. But the user prefers some applications over others, and statistics show that 25% of mobile applications ultimately fail as they are used only once.

While it is true that an excellent mobile application can boost your business, if a mobile application is not designed carefully, it can affect customers. This blog will help you pick up some of the best practices that will help create an efficient mobile application.

Using updated technology

Nobody likes to use an old application if a new and better application is available in the market. Make sure to embed your application with the latest features to have a faster response time, and it takes less time to load new pages. In the digital era, technology changes rapidly, and thus to make the application relevant, it becomes imperative to update the application timely.

There are roughly 15 apps per person on this entire planet; this means the competition in the mobile application industry is also growing. Using cloud services will save the user from internally storing the application content on their mobile phones, providing the option of advanced protection like face ID or fingerprint scanner instead of using the general password settings. These minor upgrades go a long way in engaging customers and keeping you ahead of the competition.

Mobile app design

Simplicity

Some applications are complex in their design; users might find it challenging to search for what they are looking for, and thus navigation becomes a hurdle. The thumb rule for the application design is to keep it simple. Organizations should first define their primary goal of creating the app and then focus on achieving it by making the app user-friendly.

Many applications also use the chatbot feature to ease the customer journey. Chatbot serves as an online customer service executive and thus helps the customer if they experience any difficulty while using the application.

Tutorials

The customer is the ultimate user of an application, and not all users know everything about your application. There might come instances where various app features remain unused; the designer should make easy tutorials that will guide the users to operate the app efficiently.

Animations are a great way to make your application interactive; therefore, incorporating animated tutorials will boost user engagement.

Leveraging device capabilities

There are a variety of mobile phones available in the market; some people use android while others prefer the i-phone or tablets. The screen size of smartphones also differs; the designer should consider all these factors before designing the mobile application. The app should be available on the play store and app store; it must work on all screen sizes without distortion.

Take advantage of push notifications to remind the customer about the app’s features and offers. Push notifications are a great way to engage with the customer, but overdoing it may annoy the user, so using it in moderation, i.e., 2-3 push notifications per week, is reasonable.

Applications like Google Maps, Swiggy, and Uber use the location feature of the smartphone to serve the customer better. Maps also use the accelerometer feature to show the speed of your vehicle, and it communicates via voice assistance. The payment application uses the device’s camera to scan QR codes. These features are not app build, but the applications are designed so that it takes advantage of them.

An ideal application should leverage existing smartphone features to stand out from the competition. Customer security should be the top priority for any organization, so asking permission before using an internal mobile feature is the right way.

Personalization

An application is most likely to succeed if it creates a personalized experience for the customer. Some apps use the user name to make that personal connection; some track the user activity on the app to provide individualized offers and predictions. Youtube music and Spotify analyze the listening pattern of the user and suggest the next song accordingly.

Providing customer rewards and asking for feedback is also an integral part of application design.

Conclusion

Keeping the user in the loop is the key for an application to triumph. If the application successfully provides that human touch, it will quickly grow. Another integral aspect of application design is advanced technologies, as mobile apps and specifications change frequently, so keeping up to date with technology is crucial.

To design a high-demand product in these ever-changing circumstances, you must first comprehend the customer wants that your app addresses and the core functionality that it should offer. A business may take help from app designing service providers to save valuable time and cost.

IoT, IoT Sensors
Blog, Internet of Things

What are IoT Sensors and what Types of IoT Sensors are Used Across Industries?

IoT, IoT Sensors

Technology pervades every aspect of our lives, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is a big part of that. The IoT connects physical objects to the internet and can collect and exchange data.

IoT sensors play a key role in the IoT by collecting data about the physical object they are attached to. This data is then transmitted to a central location where it can be analyzed and used to make decisions or take action. It’s important to note that IoT sensors are not just limited to the consumer market; they are also used in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, and more.

IoT sensors have enabled us to track and monitor various things, including our health and fitness, the performance of our homes and appliances, and even the vehicles we drive. They have also made it possible for industries to increase efficiency and productivity while reducing costs, which is why IoT sensors are expected to continue to grow in the years to come. But what exactly are IoT sensors, and what types of IoT sensors are used across industries? Let’s take a closer look.

IoT Sensors Defined

An IoT sensor is a physical device that collects data about a physical object and then transmits that data to a central location. IoT sensors are typically small, lightweight, and battery-powered, so they can be easily attached to or embedded in the objects they monitor.

They work by using various sensing technologies to collect data about the object they are attached to. This data is then transmitted wirelessly to a central location, where it can be analyzed and used to make decisions or complete various tasks.

Additionally, IoT sensors often come equipped with various features, such as the ability to transmit data in real time, store data locally, and operate offline. It’s important to note that not all IoT sensors have all of these features; it just depends on the specific sensor and its use.

Types of IoT Sensors

Various types of IoT sensors are used across industries, and every kind of sensor has its unique features and capabilities. They all come equipped with different sensing technologies that allow them to collect other data types. Let’s look at some of the most common types of IoT sensors.

IoT, IoT Sensors

Temperature sensors

These sensors measure temperature and can be found in various applications, including HVAC systems, refrigerators, and ovens. Temperature sensors are typically made of thermistors, which are resistance-based devices that change resistance when exposed to changes in temperature. They help regulate temperature by providing data that can be used to adjust the heating and cooling systems, which can save energy and improve comfort.

Light sensors

These sensors measure light intensity and can be found in various applications, including digital cameras, solar panels, and automated lighting systems. Light sensors are typically made of photocells, devices that change resistance when exposed to changes in light intensity. They help regulate the amount of light present by providing data that can be used to adjust the lighting, which can save energy and improve visibility.

Motion sensors

These sensors detect movement and can be found in a variety of applications, including security systems, fitness trackers, and automated lighting systems. Motion sensors are made of accelerometers, which are devices that measure acceleration. They help detect and track movement by providing data that can be used to make decisions or take action. For example, if a security system is armed and a motion sensor is triggered, the system may send an alert to the homeowner.

Sound sensors

These sensors measure sound intensity and can be found in various applications, including baby monitors, security systems, and noise-canceling headphones. Sound sensors are made of microphones, which convert sound waves into electrical signals. They help detect and track sound by providing data that can be used to make decisions or take action, which can be helpful in various situations. For example, if a baby monitor is turned on and a sound sensor detects crying, the monitor may alert the parent.

IoT Sensor Applications

There is a wide range of IoT sensor applications across industries, and the specific application will dictate the type of sensor used. Let’s look at some of the most common applications for IoT sensors.

Environmental Monitoring

IoT sensors can monitor various environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and light intensity. This data can be used to make decisions about the environment, such as adjusting the temperature in a room or turning on the lights in a dark area. This data can also be used to monitor environmental conditions in real time and take action if there is a problem, such as an air quality sensor that triggers an alarm when the air quality drops below a certain level.

Industrial Monitoring

IoT sensors can monitor industrial processes, such as production line speeds, machinery operation, and inventory levels. This data can be used to make decisions about the operation of the business, such as adjusting the production line speed to match customer demand or reordering inventory when it gets low. Additionally, this data can be used to monitor the status of the business in real time and take action to provide viable solutions if there is a problem, such as a machine that stops working or an inventory level that drops below a certain threshold.

Building Automation

IoT sensors can automate a building’s operation, such as controlling the lights, temperature, and security system. This data can be used to make decisions about the building’s operation, such as turning off the lights when no one is in the room or setting the security system to arm when everyone leaves for the day. It is especially useful in buildings that are open to the public, such as retail stores and office buildings, where it can help to save energy and improve safety.

IoT, IoT Sensors

Smart Cities

IoT sensors can monitor various factors in a smart city, such as traffic levels, air quality, and noise levels. This data can be used to make decisions about the town’s operation, such as routing traffic around an accident or turning on air purifiers when the air quality drops. It can also be used to monitor the city’s status in real-time and take action if there is a problem, such as an emergency vehicle that needs to get through traffic or a power outage that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion

The possibilities for IoT sensor applications are endless, and new applications are always being developed. The type of sensor that is used in an application will be dictated by the specific needs of the application. However, a few general types of sensors are commonly used in IoT applications, such as environmental, industrial, and building automation. Ultimately, the goal of using IoT sensors is to collect data that can be used to make decisions or take action, which can help to improve efficiency, save energy, and improve safety.

AI, Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence, Blog

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in our Daily Lives

AI, Artificial Intelligence

Humankind has seen dramatic transformations in recent years as a result of ever-evolving technology. There are immaculate inventions within the digital era that were far beyond our imagination in the past, but they now exist in the real world and are assisting us in making changes in our everyday lives.

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is one such innovative notion. The concept of AI has grown over the planet in such a fashion that it now embraces practically every sector, business, or service. In 2021, AI had already become an element of our daily lives. Whether it’s reading emails, getting driving directions, or getting music or movie suggestions, AI can help us in every aspect of our lives. Let me first tell you what AI is.

Artificial Intelligence: It is a computer that has the ability or built-in intelligence to perform the tasks humans usually do, solve problems, and make life easier for everyone. It improves the speed, effectiveness, and precision of performing tasks.

But just now, how far has AI progressed in our lives? What influence does computer science have on our culture, business, economy, and, therefore, the rest of the world? This blog will lift the veil on AI, allowing you to determine how AI will transform the way we live and work and what it’s already accomplished for society.

One of the foremost visible samples of AI is how we entertain ourselves, meet new people, and interact with our relationships online. As intelligent humans, we will always get lots of enjoyment from the books, music, TV series, and flicks we enjoy. And, without considering what lurks behind our daily routines, we depend upon recommendation algorithms to search for entertainment we enjoy. These are only some samples of how computer science is employed in existence. And the likelihood is that you’re aware of these AI-powered examples.

AI, Artificial Intelligence

YouTube recommendation engine  

YouTube is one of the foremost popular venues for sharing video material worldwide, and Google owns it. You will discover anything you want, from beauty and food instructions to music videos, vlogs, and breaking news. YouTube has touched daily users to 120+ million and monthly active users to around billions, continuously increasing. It tracks the likes and views of users tracks their activities and keeps on recommending the videos thereon.

Despite an oversized number of watchers, the platform uses computing to indicate to people the videos they need to determine while blocking those who are, for instance, terrorism-related or violent. YouTube is continuously working to tackle all the fake news and misinformation being spread on the platform with the help of AI.

Netflix recommendation engine 

Why is Netflix so popular? It recognizes what you want and may like to watch. The company is at the forefront as the leading content creator in the entertainment industry. Its recommendation engine provides TV show and movie suggestions based on your viewing history. Netflix also keeps track of how many times you’ve watched a film or television series, how many times you’ve rewound or fast-forwarded it, and how you rated it.

Netflix’s AI technology automatically adjusts video quality based on users’ network quality. It tracks the video quality of the videos the user prefers to watch and automatically sets the video quality whenever the user goes to watch any videos.

Google Translate 

It would be remiss not to include Google, notably Google Translate, which uses machine learning to translate text from one language to another. The organization contains a sizable number of contributors worldwide, which suggests that anybody may help Google Translate by inputting phrases like synonyms or the rest relevant to languages. An ML model changes and updates itself daily, supporting these contributions and growing more adept.

Recently, Google started using Google Neural Machine Translation (GNMT) to tackle the problems faced for years in handling the translation of Chinese and English language pairs. Google managed to get the translation to the human level by including bilingual people to train the system.  Then Google planned to use this GNMT for all 103 languages. That meant data needed to be fed for 103^2 language pairs, and AI would have to handle 10609 models. Google tackled this problem by allowing a single system to translate multiple languages. Google Translate’s AI built its language to improve its translation of other languages.

Social Media content search 

AI is popularly used in all the social media platforms we use daily. Be it on Facebook, which suggests the pages you must follow based on your likes, or on Instagram, where you can identify the visuals and recommend the posts or pages based on your likes. LinkedIn uses AI to suggest jobs that will be suitable for us based on our profile, suggesting that we make connections with people.

These are just a few examples of how AI is powerfully working and helping us on all our social media platforms. Furthermore, an AI algorithm or machine learning system controls how the content you make and the advertising you buy are positioned in front of consumers across each social media site and each social media post.

All these are several examples we use in our daily personal lives. Now, moving on to how it can affect us in our professional lives, we can understand more about the importance and effect AI has created in our lives. Here are a number of the cases or examples:

How Artificial Intelligence helps in: 

Email Communication

Gmail’s Smart Replies

While writing emails, we constantly get suggestions for improvements if required or add appropriate words, or auto-generated replies. These will be regularly seen in emails. 

AI can help you better understand what subject lines your clients respond to by analyzing your email open rates. This eliminates a lot of guesswork, and as a consequence, AI email technology can determine the most successful content and text.

AI also helps to determine the ideal time of day or week to send an email. It helps to know at what time of day the customer focuses on work-related emails and at what time they will disregard such emails.

The identical is employed in other platforms, too, other than Gmails. This is because of AI and how it can suggest comments supporting the content received and proper errors, if any.

Business

Among the various applications of computing in everyday life, the business realm is one where AI may provide a slew of benefits. With a huge amount of information and data available today, business units have continuous access to the changes in client requirements. Organizations no longer rely on traditional business practices to drive growth. These drastic developments have opened up a new realm of possible outcomes, allowing AI to drive corporate growth through memorable experiences produced from client data.

The combination of the human brain with an intelligent computer using AI helps a lot in improving clients’ experiences and the profitability of business units and drives business changes and developments.

AI, Artificial Intelligence

Our vision for artificial intelligence in the future

The solution to the age-old question of how AI will affect your life in the future will remain a mystery. Without an issue, AI will start a replacement age of human growth and relationships. This era will substantially change each aspect of human action by displacing people from low-paying regular professions, allowing us to make better judgments and focus our attention on what counts.

The transition procedure isn’t rapid and takes time. Technology may even appear threatening as if it threatens mankind, thanks to its limitless potential.

However, once we study how AI helps us in daily life, we see that this fear is unfounded; people are always frightened of anything they do not understand and anything that causes significant changes in their lives. It’s likely that humans may reap the advantages of AI in the not-too-distant future. AI will become an important aspect of our lives, governing our healthcare, entertainment, education, and security sectors.

Experts anticipate networked artificial intelligence would boost human productivity while potentially jeopardizing human autonomy, agency, and capacities.

Conclusion

The development of computing has been a protracted and winding road. Every day, computer science makes our lives easier. Many applications and services that assist us with daily tasks, like interacting with friends, utilizing an email program, or employing a ride-share service, are powered by AI. If you’re worried about computing, it would help to appreciate that almost all folks are utilizing it on a usual basis for an extended time. However, due to its advancement, we now have useful AI daily. The long run of AI looks good, but it’s still up in the air. As a result, please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have a fresh idea for applying such technology in your organization or just want to share your ideas on the topic. Let’s take a peek at the intense way forward for AI together!

IoT Trends, Internet of things
Blog, Internet of Things

Top IoT Trends We Can Look Forward to in 2022 and Beyond

IoT Trends, Internet of things

Since witnessing the dreadful impacts of COVID-19, the human race has adapted intelligence connectivity to the fullest. This increasing utilization of such elements, which include their intelligence, demanded the market to deliver the best to sustain this usage for the upcoming years. This dependency on intelligence connectivity covers 73% of global business growth.

We are 4 months into 2022, and there has been a significant amount of IoT-based innovation for the industrial sector to grow businesses worldwide and create an IoT-based working environment. In this article, we will be looking at the top IoT trends that came out this year to revolutionize our world and what lies beyond these innovations for the human race.

What are the top upcoming IoT trends?

  1. The Dominance of 5G

    5G was introduced as a power only for a specific audience. However, this is now changing in 2022, and this year, we saw that 5G is now being targeted to a more generic audience rather than a targeted one. This will also be a trend in the upcoming years, and this innovation will surely stay for a long time.

    5G will be integrated into the IoT-based devices for a mass machine communication approach so that these devices can communicate and handle data without the dependencies on humans alone. This might at first take a slow flight, but will eventually end up as one of the top IoT trends.

  2. Smart Security Devices for All

    We all have heard multiple times that consumers can hold IoT-based smart devices, and it is now possible to say that this happened in 2022. Smart security devices are being inaugurated by offering or launching smart home appliances such as security cameras and video doorbells.

    This IoT trend will be beneficial in the upcoming years, especially from the security perspective. These devices include intelligent voice recognition to better understand their owners.

  3. Interoperability with Ease

    It is important for us to connect our devices anywhere at any time, all the devices in your house will have the advantage of smart operative settings. This will make up a digital house that will have its own equipment intelligence.

    Internet of things, IoT Trends

    This technology is related to people who try to bring something unique and pact with intelligence. This IoT trend is helpful for those who prefer to work from home, making it easier for them to be more productive.

  4. Advanced Sensor Techniques for Medical Services

    It will be great to see that medical equipment can detect chronic diseases and easily suggest a diagnosis procedure. However, it has one disadvantage of having extensive user data, which can create a mess for multiple other medical mediums.

    One of the tiniest examples is a newly launched bathtub that automatically heats at the suggested temperature regularly. This IoT trend needs time to catch on, and it is estimated that 2025, we could reap its full benefits.

  5. No More Cloud Data Dependencies

    We are currently dependent on cloud-based intelligence that stores and protects our data and helps us access it wherever and whenever we need it. However, this technology is being improved to suit a massive audience so that we won’t have to rely on the cloud alone.

    Enterprises will be able to implement real-time applications. You will not have to rely on the cloud for your house or office chores. You can simply opt for more fluent AI-based solutions linked with IoT innovation for better results.

    At [x]cube LABS, we have leveraged this IoT trend to create a suite of services that help reduce your cloud expenses and optimize cloud services.

  6. Massive Adaption

    Due to their popularity, multi-national companies are curating these intelligence devices. This creates a market for better IoT innovations, frameworks, and AI advancements. Now, AI is being used, linking it with IoT to deduce sensory data and send signals to other machines.

    In this IoT trend, multiple language barriers can be eliminated, resulting in better learning and productivity. Massive adaption also means an intelligence wave of IoT-based users. They will be able to notice the voice modes of different human behaviors and mimic them.

Conclusion

The future of IoT innovation linked with AI is bright and requires little time to realize its implications. However, several companies have offered some revolutionary IoT-related devices that are surely better than other less efficient ones. The question is, what is beyond 2022? With the progress of multiple IoT trends, we will surely see more innovation across industries, leading to radical breakthroughs.

IoT applications
Blog, Internet of Things

The Impact of IoT Applications in Everyday Lives

IoT applications

Table of contents

Introduction:

The innovative and revolutionary concept of the Internet of Things or IoT is now all-pervasive. You may not realize it, but IoT applications are now a strong part of our day-to-day lives. We cannot deny all the possible ways IoT is helping us achieve our desired results in everyday chores.

Humans have many options, and each passing day is getting better and better. The physical world can change, and that credit goes to the Internet of Things and the opportunities it creates for the human race. But have you ever wondered how IoT applications work? The technology simply connects all the devices under a network, sends alerts from one device to another, and follows the users’ demands.

To further elaborate on some of the top IoT applications and how they are embedded in our day-to-day lives, here are some of the applications of IoT that are benefitting us like no other.

  1. Traffic and Driving Vehicles

    It might sound cliché but it is one of the efficient fields where IoT applications have facilitated the human race beyond perfection. The Internet of Things has revolutionized how we used to drive our vehicles and now move in general. It is now safer and less stressful for people due to the smart adjustments of traffic lights and flexible traffic conditions. For special vehicles like ambulances, the Internet of Things started to generate real-time patterns for other drivers to have the signals of an ambulance approaching from behind.

    In addition to this traffic, sensors are a great addition to the technology IoT applications bring. Now, we can change our speed and adjust our speed limits based on the weather we are driving in. Also, it guides us on how to avoid previous accidents from happening again and allows us to select the best option while we are moving. In the future, cars will be increasingly connected to this technology to avoid further unpleasant incidents for the drivers.

  2. Energy and Other Appliances

    As we progress, we are leaving footprints that are damaging our environment, but recently, the Internet of Things has reduced this to some extent. We previously consumed high energy in our day-to-day chores, but with IoT applications, the process has been simplified and made safer for the environment.

    IoT applications are now adjusting for more effective bills that do not harm anyone’s pocket. Thermostats are now adjustable according to our modes and habits to switch to the perfect temperature. Considering the far-reaching impact of such applications, we can surmise that their impact on the energy sector constitutes some of the best IoT application examples.

  3. Wearables

    Who doesn’t love the attractive yet advanced wearable technology that IoT has introduced to us?. Multiple wearable products are now making waves due to their adjustable and optimized features for their users. They not only offer better designs but also offer tons of facilities and intelligence to their wearers. They are now efficient in monitoring sleep patterns and help provide hearing aids.

    From tracking activities to connecting you to your socials, these wearables and IoT applications are continuously improving. It is only a matter of time before these wearable products will replace major items and potions on which we rely to perform our daily chores.

    IoT applications

  4. Health Sector

    If there is a sector that was revolutionized the most by IoT applications, it is the healthcare sector and all the other fields connected to it. IoT applications offer solutions to maximize health and safety for people worldwide. It improves patient care by facilitating the medical sector with reduced costs and efficient products.

    IoT applications can make appointments happen quickly and notify your doctor whenever they sense any disturbance in the temperature or your habits. Patients can detect their sugar levels and take precautionary measures, and their blood levels can be detected and monitored at any time.

  5. Corporate Sector

    We cannot deny the process that happened because of IoT applications in the business and industrial sectors. IoT has become an essential part of the industry, and business owners rely heavily on IoT applications and their services in the sector. At [x]cube LABS, we empower global enterprises to leverage IoT to drive great results.

    It covers the initial stages of industries and offices and continues until the customer’s door. It is now easier to optimize logistic operations with IoT applications, which help automate the process for workers and owners quickly. This saves a lot of labor costs and gas bills for multiple factories, especially small businesses that rely a lot on sales.

    From reducing waste to improving service deliveries, IoT is covering many portions of the industrial sector. It is now less expensive to manufacture items and products for customers. IoT applications allow consumers and owners to have transparency and effective delivery in no time.

    Closing Remarks on IoT Applications:

    Going forward, we can expect IoT to increasingly become an integral part of our daily lives and transform our daily tasks. We will gradually become accustomed to smart homes, smart cities, and smart workplaces, which will enhance security, productivity, and ease of use. It will certainly be interesting to see what each innovation brings, and we will continue the coverage of novel IoT applications as more of them surface.

IoT company
Blog, Internet of Things

Top Companies for Your IoT Innovation Needs

IoT company

Table of contents

Introduction:

This is the technological revolution and hyper-connectivity age, where the Internet of Things (IoT) plays a vital role in connecting humanity with advancement. According to research, the IoT will likely boom in the upcoming years due to the stellar work being done by several IoT companies across industries, and we can see that happening around 2025. The sector has provided us with countless facilities, ranging from intelligent wearable products to optimized vehicles and homes.

The Internet of Things industry has a remarkable revenue rate of 1 trillion to 3 trillion every year, and this is likely to multiply in the coming years as more companies and private firms seek the assistance of IoT to run their operations. Around us, we can see multiple IoT-based appliances that IoT-based companies are manufacturing. To understand more about such IoT companies, we have handpicked the top IoT companies to accelerate your innovation needs.

[x]cube LABS

If you are seeking digital innovation and don’t know where to look, [x]cube LABS is a leading IoT company that operates globally and offers IoT-based services to its clients. The firm is highly efficient in providing solutions and assistance in digital transformation, perfectly planning strategies and executing them to gain the best results.

[x]cube LABS is known for its services in digital business transformation and long-term strategies to boost business for its clients. They offer technological executions for small businesses and firms and help them achieve a smooth digital transformation quickly.

Internet of things, IoT company

Aristocrat Leisure Limited

Ever wondered about IoT companies in the gaming industry? Well, Aristocrat is that one brand that is a leading company for providing gaming solutions globally. Because the gaming sector is also booming, just like the Internet of Things sector, there is a lot of scope for an IoT company like Aristocrat to target clients looking for polished and effective gaming solutions.

Licensed in 300+ jurisdictions, Aristocrat is a platform for all gaming sectors to avail themselves of gaming solutions and to fuse IoT and creativity in 90 countries. Aristocrat offers solutions, operating strategies, and advanced maps for gaming designs.

Yext

Projecting itself as the best way to search, the IoT company Yext implements superior AI algorithms in its innovative online search solution. The firm provides better hyperlinks to its clients so they can monitor their data online. It scans keywords and important sites and, with the help of AI, designs patterns to help you search for the right services.

Yext is a merger of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. It offers its clients a wide range of online services covering all aspects of online data and hyperlink patterns.

Bevi

Think about an IoT company that combines the Internet of Things with supply chain management. Well, IoT has made waves in supply chain management before, but Bervi is one IoT company that is focusing on innovative measures to take this fusion to a whole new level.

The company smartly replaces single-use water bottles with water machines optimized with intelligence. It enables IoT-based beverage machines and has reduced tons of waste, which was a problem before IoT took over.

Mason

Mason is an IoT company that manufactures IoT-based products from scratch. It offers its clients a wide variety of products, single and bulk, at a cost-effective scale.

This innovative IoT company is known for its smart device platforms, which fully manage the development and delivery of products infused with AI and IoT.

Twin Health

We have always heard and seen with our own eyes how IoT has transformed the healthcare sector within no time, and the Twin Health company is an example of that same innovation IoT caused. The IoT company utilizes machine learning and the Internet of Things to resist and reverse chronic diseases. It also suggests patterns that improve overall human metabolic health and guts.

These groundbreaking results are achieved by utilizing the IoT on patients and their patterns and habits to understand what causes such health issues to prevail.

Internet of things, IoT company

Samsara

We all know how IoT works well with sensors, and Samsara is an IoT company that builds IoT-based sensors for its clients. It is also a cloud and IoT company that offers sensors, software, and solutions along with cloud services to its customers.

The company is known for its leading position in offering safety, efficiency, and sustainability in all IoT-based operations that boost economies worldwide.

Flowcode

As its name suggests, Flowcode is an IoT company focusing on offline and online markets by building connections between consumers and companies. The company is known for its contactless connection, which offers speed, security, and protection from all consumer threats.

It uses the latest QR technology and merges it with data-driven designs, enabling ultra-fast scanning and services to its users.

What is IoT
Blog, Internet of Things

What are “IoT Platforms” and how do they Benefit IoT Implementation for Enterprises?

What is IoT

Table of contents

Introduction:

Before getting into IoT platforms, let’s look at the struggles with IoT adoption itself. As a business leader looking to leverage technology to solve problems, I find it easy to put IoT, or the Internet of Things, forward as a critical piece of the puzzle. However, when a deep dive is required on how to build the product right, what information it should gather, how to test if it’s working, and whether it will justify the investment, decision-makers often struggle to convince others and themselves even. So, how do you bridge the digital divide where you want to give technology a shot and yet are unsure of the benefits everyone keeps talking about?

One thing is sure: if you wait for your theories to be 100% confirmed before putting even a fraction of them into practice, you’ll be waiting forever. The best approach here is to understand your target audience, know the kind of experience they would love to get from your product, build a PoC with a few features, get it out, and see how it is received. If the signs are encouraging, keep building, and if they are not, it’s back to the drawing board.

Since we are talking specifically about IoT here, let’s look at how you can build that PoC quickly and, if it clicks, continue building it at a good pace and scale. Some ways enable you to minimize your initial investment when you are yet to be sure. Do what you need to be sure quickly, and if things don’t work out, you’re not left looking at a vast failed expense. We are discussing using an IoT platform instead of building everything from the ground up.

What is an IoT platform?

Essentially, one of the most significant advantages of building an IoT solution is the amount of data it will collect, the insights you will get about your device’s performance, and how users interact with it. To do this, a range of sensors and APIs must be built for communication between the interface and your back-end. IoT platforms make it easy for you as they are pre-built mediators between physical objects and actionable insights. They enable developers to distribute their applications, gather data remotely, ensure secure connectivity, and facilitate sensor management.

Internet of things

Building security measures for your IoT solution alone is arduous, so you can imagine how easily IoT platforms can make things for you. Additionally, the ability of IoT platforms to make sense of vast volumes of data and present them on an intuitive dashboard means that you learn what you need to learn quickly and take the following steps with increased conviction.

What IoT platforms are available to you?

If you are confused in your search for the best IoT platform, let us simplify things for you. With our extensive experience developing IoT solutions for global enterprises for over a decade, we have come across multiple versatile IoT platforms and even built one of our own! So here’s our take on some of the very best:

Mobius Loop: Call us biased, but we must mention our IoT platform, which has worked wonders for many customers. With a team of over 100 IoT experts who’ve built over 85 IoT solutions across industries, it’s no wonder IoT innovation is one of our core areas of expertise. We started the blog emphasizing that in a fast-paced environment, it’s best if you know what you need to do quickly, and that’s what Mobius Loop enables you to do. You build fast yet robust, and security is built in from the first step.

The Mobius Loop Platform is a high-speed and highly efficient IoT platform that can easily be used to build IoT software and applications. Our IoT platform architecture features visuals and a model-driven system UI templates approach that enables technical developers to consume IoT services and make real-time monitoring & tracking of devices with efficient processes & more intelligent operations.

Through this platform-agnostic strategy, Mobius Loop enables organizations and their developers to build rich experiences on top of connected devices to transform their operations, products, and business models with a low-code platform.

Internet of things

Google Cloud IoT: The company released its IoT development platform based on the Google Cloud infrastructure, which quickly became popular. The IoT platform integrates Google’s valuable features, making building connected solutions more straightforward. These features include “cloud IoT core,” which helps in capturing and handling data; “cloud pub/sub,” which analyses data; “Google BigQuery,” which generates analytics in real-time, an AI platform to run machine learning algorithms; “Google Data Studio” which presents the data in an easy-to-read format, and “Google Maps” which helps with locating connected devices.

Cisco IoT Cloud Connect: This IoT platform was tailor-made for mobile operators and combines Cisco’s stellar IoT hardware offerings with its powerful software suite. Key features of the Cisco IoT platform include an IoT control center that ensures seamless cellular connectivity among the devices, “Extended Enterprise Solution” to develop IoT business applications at the edge, “Edge Intelligence” that makes data processing a breeze, “Industrial Asset Vision” which makes use of sensors to monitor assets and continuously collect relevant data, and “Cisco IoT Threat Defense” that secures the entire platform.

Particle: One of the great benefits of technological advancements is that we can increasingly talk about creating technology with little technical knowledge and, in other words, flattening the learning curve as much as possible for people who want to get into leveraging technology for great results, enabling them to achieve more in less time. While creating the IoT platform needs deep technical knowledge, there’s no reason to make it accessible only to those who share that knowledge, right? Well, Particle is one such IoT platform. It’s edge-to-cloud with excellent connectivity and device management features. Additionally, it integrates with 3rd party services through REST API, is incredibly secure, and can work with data from Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure.

IBM Watson IoT: Prioritizing security, it features several functional elements to accelerate development and ensure seamless connectivity between devices in its IoT monitoring platform. It uses MQTT to absorb data from all sources, provides direct access to updated data in the Cloudant NoSQL DB solution, provides intuitive dashboards to monitor and control assets, robust analytics services to make sense of large volumes of data, and cloud object storage solution to preserve data over a long time.

Conclusion:

Now that you have learned about some of the best IoT platforms you can leverage for your business, you must choose one. Honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution among these, and your choice will depend on your unique requirements and use cases. Selecting services from Amazon and Google can seem the right way to go, but they are also the most expensive, and lesser-known alternatives may just give you the right balance between cost and performance. While choosing, consider the technical specifications, ecosystem, and organizations that have built their solutions upon them. Ask for case studies, and verify for yourself the results being delivered. If you have any questions about IoT platforms in general or how you can get started on your IoT initiative, reach out to us at [x]cube LABS, and we’ll be happy to talk.

What is IoT
Blog, Internet of Things

Everything You Need to Know about the Internet of Things

What is IoT

Table of contents

Speaking about the Internet of Things, have you ever wondered how your devices communicate with you on multiple levels? From schools to offices and healthcare centers to industries, tons of devices operate on the same system that interconnects them.

In this, we will offer a guide to the Internet of Things and how it operates on many levels in our daily lives. To understand the system, we must first know IoT’s actual meaning and what it makes of.

What is IoT or the Internet of Things?

IoT, or the Internet of Things, is a system of multiple interconnected physical devices communicating through the Internet daily lives. Their primary task is to collect data and transfer it to other applications and devices that function on the same system.

This data can somewhat communicate with us to offer services or answer our queries. These devices can also communicate with their other counterparts and transfer data from one device to another in no time.

The devices that operate in the IoT system are called IoT devices, and they can generate sensory data, biotelemetry data, and various other forms of data to transfer or receive information. These devices have mini processors like in standard computers. These processors act based on machine learning and collect further data due to their sensory abilities.

Defining IoT Systems: the [x]cube Way

The Internet of Things system is based on its four main pillars, which are commonly used in our day-to-day lives and perform various operations on the Internet. Internet our integrated parts are,

  • Devices or sensors help transfer data to the cloud.
  • Connectivity, along with wit Data Collection, acts primarily to transfer data to the cloud; methods are HTTP/S, Bluetooth, RFID readers, and FTPs. These methods require a host to collect the data.
  • Machine Learning is a stage where all the devices process the collected data and then perform actions according to the data they collected. All of this happens based on preferences.
  • The user interface is a medium through which users can decide on their actions using the traditional user interface. 

Why Does IoT Matter to Your Business?

 As the world grows, its need for technology also increases to prominence levels. We can see that almost 50 million people use devices that function solely on IoT. These devices are interconnected and strongly perform their tasks of generating and communicating data with each other.

This helps both consumers and business owners completely trust IoT and its IoT-centric devices with their functionality and operations. It also helps humans understand the possible strategies and ideas one can have while using an IoT-based system, allowing for better and more precise decision-making.

IoT has many benefits in our daily lives that we can experience multiple times a day. There was a time when only consumers used IoT for their entertainment and daily activities; however, things have changed now, and businesses are also moving towards this system. 

Internet of things

What are the Advantages of IoT

As mentioned above, there are multiple cases where IoT is currently performing in a revolutionary and innovative way that might not have been possible a decade ago. Continuous advancements are making the world of IoT more stable for the upcoming times.

Here are some of the benefits that IoT offers us in multiple sectors,

Automation in the Industrial Sector

Multiple industries use the Internet of Things to increase reliability and sustainability in production and growth. This is more common in automated sectors where numerous robots are building or manufacturing things, not humans.

If such industries adopt any traditional medium, such as manufacturing through humans, it will slow down production and increase multiple requirements, such as labor wages for the company. Manufacturers want to gain as much as possible, so they use devices that communicate through the Internet For multiple tasks.

Companies contain data on the sensory motions of these robots so that they can be utilized on their own. Furthermore, this also opens the door for scientists working on data to modify these machines with features that the industrial sector can detect when the so-called IoT-based robots or infrastructure has reached its limit.

This will reduce the risk of sudden expense on repair and management and require fewer management efforts by the company. It will increase the production level and efficiency of the product and build a trustable reputation for the company. Manufacturers also have the advantage of checking the health points of their devices and predicting the maintenance time. 

Collection of Data

It is no surprise that humans now have a lot of data scattered around them. There was nothing like this some 20 years ago, but as we move from platform to platform, exposing ourselves to the never-ending realm of the Internet,  the Internet is now more exposed to tons of data that never stops flowing. The speed of this data is also increasing daily without ever stopping.

Undoubtedly, the future of the human race will be enriched with data. The puzzling factor related to data is that humans cannot decide and analyze the data they are exposed to now and then. So, the answer to processing it was the Internet of Things, along with analyzing and processing it for humans to utilize for their betterment and growth.

IoT has a unique approach to collecting data and transferring it to its integrated devices. It collects the data from several places and then processes it to perform multiple tasks on various mediums wherever these devices perform.

Personalized Customer Experience

Since it is a system based on multiple integrated devices that communicate and share data, it offers humans a personalized customer experience. Customers receive a level of support and trust from these devices and can communicate with them without any hindrances.

Customers have the perks to enjoy these services on air, sea, and land. These devices provide continuous improvements to users as they collect data based on what their consumers or clients prefer. This strengthens their link with their clients or consumers while fulfilling their needs.

Greater Revenue

The better the experience, the better the revenue. Whether in the industrial sector or health, if consumers are getting personalized experiences and are happy to be offered services by IoT devices, it will automatically turn the Internet of Things into a profitable and great revenue-based system for multiple sectors.

It is a great alternative for small businesses struggling to reach specific business heights and trying to elevate their reputations in challenging market conditions.

Stable Public Sector

Whether in the public or private sector, IoT-based devices offer notifications related to water, energy, and many other essentials and utility-related elements. They collect data on the area where their clients or consumers live and notify the government based on their consumers’ needs to enhance living standards.

This means that IoT devices massively improve the conditions of their consumers both in the private and public sectors.

Progress in Healthcare 

Last but not least, IoT devices are strongly embedded in the healthcare sector. We see many machines and labs that operate on such devices and perform pretty well for their consumers. From sensors to trackers, the Internet of Things in healthcare is resolving many issues that were a massive pain in the early technological years.

Furthermore, they also help improve these healthcare centers’ financial systems to avoid consumer outrage.

Concerns Regarding IoT

It doesn’t mean that if IoT is progressing in multiple fields, there won’t be any reservations or concerns related to it. Everything has its flip side, and so does IoT. There are two major concerns related to IoT that we usually witness on a massive level. Both of these concerns are elaborated below.

Security

If there is progress, then that means there will be some challenges parallel to the progress that the world is experiencing, and this is the case with IoT. With the Internet of Things, cybersecurity implementation has to be beefed up, and uncertainties around this have resulted in many business leaders delaying their implementations.

The alarming increase in the number of devices is a threat to security and can lead to possible security breaches in the future. Hackers can access consumer data on multiple levels. On the other hand, we might collectively experience security or software glitches that can occur due to any malware in the IoT system.

Standards of IoT

With increasing growth, consumers tend to demand more modification. The current demand from consumers is to define a set of uniform standards for both industries and for consumers who regularly use IoT devices for daily tasks.

This will expose companies that can alter consumer data for their benefit and use that data to create consumer traps. In the future, manufacturers may have to provide liability and security to their consumers so that their consumers can enjoy a safe IoT-based sphere.

Internet of things

The Future of IoT According to [x]cube LABS

It is no surprise that the future belongs to technology and advancements. The Internet of Things is a powerful system that is slowly and continuously building its reputation for a more digital future for the human race. Companies such as Tesla are now recognizing the potential of IoT and are working to introduce IoT-based projects for their consumers. This means we can witness more tech-based companies adopting the same approach.

However, like any other growing technology, risks and threats are inevitable and can have drawbacks in the future. Currently, IoT-based devices are working and offering three main services to their consumers: maintenance, integration, and data processing.

After performing all three services, they can communicate it to multiple mediums, making it easy for the consumers. Perhaps this might include more revolutionary consumer features in the future and lead to efficient outcomes for all sectors in general.

Conclusion

We can safely say that currently, IoT is serving multiple sectors with ease. There is a possible drawback to the system, but without IoT, it is almost practically impossible to meet the communication conditions and challenges. However, there is always room for improvements and better features that can be installed to make the realm of IoT more convenient and effective for its consumers.

Multiple enterprises are also curating ideas and projects that can eliminate IoT devices’ security and safety threats and are moving towards uniform standards for their consumers.

NFTs for Businesses
Blockchain, Blog, NFT

How can Small Businesses Benefit from NFTs?

NFTs for Businesses

Table of contents

Introduction:

Many people are talking about non-fungible tokens (NFTs). During the first three months of 2021, sales totaled $2.5 billion. Major corporations like Coca-Cola and the National Basketball Association (NBA) have become members. Businesses love NFTs because they help create fresh and intriguing content, promote the brand, and discover different ways to make money. In light of these ideas, small firms should take leverage of the NFT phenomenon.

What are NFTs?

NFTs are digital assets that can be used to create realistic-looking art, music, in-game goods, and videos. A cryptocurrency is typically used for online transactions such as purchasing or selling it. In most cases, it’s created using the same tools as other cryptographic protocols. Despite being around since 2014, NFTs have recently gained attention due to their growing popularity as a way for consumers to purchase and sell digital artwork.

NFTs have cost $174 million since November 2017. Aside from being one of a kind, NFTs also feature unique codes that can be used to locate and identify them. This is a dramatic contrast to most digital productions, which are usually always accessible at any one moment.

If a product is in high demand, cutting off its supply should make it more valuable, at least theoretically. In the early days of NFTs, some digital creations already existed in some form elsewhere, such as legendary NBA game footage or securitized versions of digital art that are already on Instagram.

What is the process by which NFTs are manufactured?

NFTs are made possible by a technology known as blockchain. If we had the time and resources, we could write an entire article about blockchain technology. In a nutshell, it’s a network of computers that stores digital records of information. Because no one controls it, it’s nearly complicated for someone to intentionally alter or infiltrate the information it contains.

Ways NFTs can be used to assist in the growth of your small business.

For this reason, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are in high demand. People aspire to own works of art and sentimental mementos. Those in the market for long-term investments seek to invest in assets they believe will appreciate in value.

NFTs for Businesses

Make Promotional Tools That Can’t Be Reached:

Hackers can use one-time promotional tools like coupon codes and promotional discounts to get money from you. Fraudsters can create the codes using “brute force.” People often use brute-force attacks to hack into passwords, encryption keys, and log-in credentials. If successful, they can do much damage to small businesses.

Loyalty programs for customers should be set up:

Suppose you have a digital Near Field Communication (NFC) card. After they sign up, customers download the app to their mobile phones. Customers who visit your company scan the reward NFT code to earn loyalty points. Push in-store prizes, discounts, or blockchain tokens when they reach a certain amount.

Check out the Metaverse:

Metaverses, called the “new internet,” are places that can be seen through VR headsets or other immersive technology. In each Metaverse, there are things called NFTs that can be used to buy virtual clothes for your avatar, estate development, or tickets to events that take place there. As a small business, you can start advertising your brand in a place like Decentraland by hosting activities in your field and setting up shop there.

Sell Non-Fungible Transactions to People on the Internet:

People can buy virtual real estate and dress their avatars in inexpensive clothes in the Metaverse. If you’re an innovative business, you could use this to order branded NFT things to sell in virtual worlds like Decentraland.

Nike has filed patents for virtual sneakers for people who play games and live in virtual worlds. This is Nike’s second time being ahead of the game in this area. Coca-Cola also made a virtual NFT bubble jacket to celebrate its 200th anniversary. This is another excellent example of how NFTs can be used in business.

Gamification is a way to make exciting promotions:

Gamification of NFTs can be used to attract more clients. For example, a chamber of commerce could organize an NFT scavenger hunt that would direct customers to stores owned by small businesses participating in the hunt. If you run a big company, you should use this marketing method because it is expensive. For small businesses, partnering with a well-known brand and running a campaign that both benefit from is the best way to go.

Increase the effectiveness of supply chain management:

It is one of the best enterprise applications for NFTs. Supply chain management is among the best. To make it easier for businesses to keep track of products through the supply chain, they can put NFT-enabled tags on physical goods.

For example, product-related NFTs on the blockchain might include information about raw materials and how they are made. Businesses can immediately see when a defective product is added to the supply chain. Because blockchain data is available to the public, customers can check the manufacturing details of a piece of goods.

Engage in charitable activities if possible:

You may learn more about non-financial transactions (NFTs) and how you might use them to achieve success. Charitable organizations began using non-fungible tokens to solicit donations when they first started up. For example, BookBlocks.io has generated 2,200 NFTs to support Afghan women’s education since the Taliban seized control of the country in 2011.

Conclusion:

Using NFTs to build brand awareness and customer loyalty, create unique consumer experiences, and monitor your supply chain could help your business. Given their enormous commercial potential, every responsible firm would do well to include them in its overall business strategy and operations.

Applications of Robotics
Artificial Intelligence, Blog, Robotics

How AI-powered Robots are Changing Our Lives

Applications of Robotics

Table of contents

Robotics is a field that deals with creating humanoid machines that can act like humans and perform activities just like human beings. AI allows robots to work intelligently in a variety of  situations. Robotics today has reached a stage where the robotic arm can now detect what material an object is created of and then estimate the force required to manipulate it.

For instance, the robot can load the dishwasher, pick up laundry, reach higher objects, and navigate.

Did You Know? 

A game-changing stage into the future of cooking, Moley brings is the world’s first fully robotic kitchen. Everything is adjusted for optimal robotics work based on established industrial manipulators in the robotic kitchen. The robots can now break eggs, use a blender or turn on the water tap. The entire cooking is fully automated. The robots are trained with the help of a camera recording of the cooking process and its verbal description. Isn’t this amazing?

Today, we are already surrounded by several applications of robotics but are often unaware of them.. Given beneath are some of the notable examples of robotics in our day-to-day lives:

Smart Homes 

As the growing technological advances, we are being provided with numerous completely automated and easy-to-use devices and appliances. Robots are now deployed for personal uses to decrease human efforts. These robots are ready to help us with all the household chores.

Also, The household robots market is anticipated to grow from $3.3 billion from 2019 to $9.1 billion by 2024 with a CAGR of 22.4% during the forecast period.

Robots in Household

Some of the examples of home robots that help in household activities are:

  • Home robots can look after pet animals in your absence.
  • Robots can help with laundry kitchen cleaning.
  • Home robots can monitor your household activities every day and make a few things ready for you. For example, robots can help you prepare meals.
  • Some robots will assist you in assembling things like furniture, and help you lift, place, and replace heavy objects.
  • Robots can guard your home and notify you in case of any disturbances.
  • Robots can answer your phone call and continue in the basic formal conversation just how you do.

There are numerous other activities that robots can help with in households, powered by artificial intelligence (AI). There aren’t many robots available yet, but hopefully, soon they will be.

People currently utilize multiple home appliances that perform their chores, like robot vacuum cleaners or intelligent coffee machines. Personal assistants like Siri and Alexa help search for information, make orders, and control devices in smart homes. The development of such assistants will keep increasing, as consumer demand is growing

Robots in Medicine

The impact of robotics is absolute in the domain of medicine. Recently, engineers have successfully discovered surgical robots. This success has drawn significant financial investment for robots in medical science.

Recently, Google and Johnson & Johnson have been working together to create a next-generation medical robot system. Though it is not likely yet, the day is not too far when robots will replace surgeons in surgical procedures. In the recent past, robots were only employed like assistants, but now, they are part and parcel of the clinical system.

For drug delivery methods, robots can locally focus on therapeutic payload around pathological areas to lower the dose of drug administration and side effects caused by them.

The effect of robotics is undeniable in the field of healthcare services. Lately, medical engineers have successfully invented surgical robots. This innovation has gained a lot of traction in the financial sector for more investments in medical science.

Now robotics engineers are working hard to build micro and nanorobots as these robots can perform incredibly perfectly. One instrument, da Vinci, approved by the FDA in 2000, is said to have been used to perform over 6 million surgeries worldwide.

AI-based chatbot developments and consulting applications enable the area of telemedicine. Other intelligent programs can perform precise diagnostics by analyzing patients’ medical records.

The potential of intelligent software and machines in healthcare is immense due to their ability to make medical assistance more accurate and available.

Robots in Education

Robotics has now become a general-purpose technology because it has the potential to transform and impact organizations’ economic and social systems. Hence, it is now natural to discuss robotics in the education sector.

Many students have to go through diverse conditions, which means a few cannot physically attend courses and miss a class. Engineers have now created robots that help students attend classes from any world. These robots act as a person in the classroom, which the students control themselves.  The cameras work as eyes and use the body for conveying messages to others. This helps the students to see and do everything just like they are present in the class from the comfort of their home.

Robots in Education

Another compelling application of robotics in education is humanoid robots. As we all know, autistic students usually find it frustrating and confusing to express themselves with other individuals. The humanoid robots that typically look like humans make the job easy to share with them, creating a human delusion. These robots help autistic students by providing educational lessons and teaching social cues. The success level is immense in this field.

LuxAI is an Autism Robot Tutor for Improving Child’s Learning Outcome at the comfort of your home!

Self-Driving Cars

AI technology is quickly thrusting itself for the advancement of self-driving cars. According to a study concentrating on fifty Google vehicles that drove about 1.3 million road miles overall, AI-powered cars have already surpassed human operators in terms of safety. AI allows self-driving vehicles to adapt immediately to changing conditions and learn from new situations. Most critical car brands are currently looking to integrate this technology with their fleet.

For instance, Tesla Autopilot AI drives the future of autonomy of current and new generations of vehicles.

Robots in Automobile

Autonomous Transportation

Imagine the opportunities that self-driving cars offer people who are disabled. The possibilities appear to be boundless, where people can transport themselves without assistance to a specific location and become more independent. Such opportunities can be extended into homes, where automation of simple tasks like making a bed and cleaning your house via robots or home devices is made simpler.

Robotic Friend

You might think of robots as machinery, but robots will soon act as friends with advancements in technology. With artificial intelligence, robots will function like humans, monitor, and understand human emotions, thus becoming just like us.

For example, Boomer, a bomb disposal robot, was offered a military funeral with 21-gun salutes. It saved many of its human friends’ lives on several occasions.

Now, these Robotic friends are acting as explorers and are performing many dangerous jobs in outer-space. NASA recently sent a robot named “Curiosity” to explore Mars.

In a few countries, people are choosing robots as their life partners as now they have emotions configured in them with the support of artificial intelligence.

Robots in Space

Conclusion

It may not appear like you’re dealing with a robot in the coming days. Robots are making great changes and innovations in technology, penetrating every industry and social sphere. Robotics, therefore, will have a powerful impact on your everyday life. For example, with the help of robotics you can use the self-checkout lane at the supermarket or purchase tickets from movies or shows.

Blog, Virtual Reality

Future of VR in ‘Virtualized’ Workplaces

Table of contents

Introduction

For many, virtual reality (VR) likely summons images of game-obsessed teenagers wearing goggles and admiring the feeling of riding a rollercoaster or gliding through space from the comfort of their couch. However, the most potent future virtual reality applications will go beyond pure entertainment, drastically changing how people think about their work and workplace.

It started with Zoom/Oculus, then came Webex, and then Microsoft began their Microsoft Mesh, and now; Slack. Four giants collaborated to join the Metaverse, a newly-coined phrase used to represent the concept of a forthcoming variant of the internet.

Facebook changed the direction of the virtual reality industry in 2014 through a $2 billion acquisition deal with Oculus VR. Before this deal, the notion was that virtual reality would only fit in the world of video games. The value showed Facebook’s confidence in the technology and established that the future of VR is promising: Within two years, the total amount invested and the number of venture capital contracts tripled. While the widespread adoption of virtual reality is still distant, many companies have already incorporated the technology into their business practices to create innovative, sustainable workplaces.

According to a report by PWC, Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can strengthen the global economy by nearly $2 trillion by 2030. These technologies will soon be familiar in the workplace.

Even with the onset of remote work due to the pandemic, the workplace has transformed as new technologies have pervaded work. One of the technologies that stood out was X-Reality.

Extended Reality (X-Reality) defines the merge of digital technologies with the real world.

The “X” in X-Reality consists of four technologies:

Augmented, Virtual, Mixed and Assisted Reality.

VR in X-Reality helps make a user’s interaction with the digital world more intuitive and seamless. The new human-technology interaction can add value for companies while gaining a competitive advantage. We can use VR for work meetings, training, and customer service experience in the workplace.

A report by PWC predicts that by 2030, nearly 23 million jobs will use AR and VR. According to ARtillery Intelligence, VR usage in businesses is expected to grow to $4.26 billion by 2023.

In 2021, Facebook’s VR headset brand Horizon, an Oculus for business platform, was released. This platform will assist workers in interacting digitally in a more immersive form without the need to go to any location, thus supporting the hybrid work model. Facebook Horizon will let its users share and build collaborative online worlds to work on projects, hang out, or play games.

Increased Connection and Collaboration Virtual reality allows individuals to unite regardless of physical distance. However, VR users can feel like they are inhibiting the same space, which results in good collaboration. VR provides a medium for users to view and manipulate data together in real-time. While some companies prefer installing mixed-reality rooms to execute VR meetings and collaborative work sessions, others distribute VR headsets that can be used in the office or remotely. This technology is readily available and intuitive, helping people collaborate and connect.

Four ways in which VR has the potential to impact the workplace:

  • New HR Practices

Human resources will transform drastically with the effortless global connectivity that VR provides. Corporates can use VR in a variety of interactive HR workshops. With access to workers worldwide, hiring techniques will grow to recruit top talent. As part of the interview process, forthcoming employees will have the opportunity to virtually shadow their potential standing to understand the day-to-day responsibilities better.

  • Upgraded Training Methods 

Putting individuals into a fully immersive real-life scenario forms the perfect training tool. VR training is beneficial in high-risk situations, allowing employees to gain experience safely. The armed forces and NASA use VR training to minimize risk and costs. Walmart has also taken advantage of the technology, using simulations to train employees for the Black Friday rush. Regardless of the industry, VR offers an engaging, educational experience.

  • More Efficient Product Development

Within a computer-generated environment, product development will evolve more efficiently than ever. Organizations can use Virtual reality to test products in different scenarios, eliminating the necessity for expensive physical prototypes. Modifications can be made virtually and immediately during trials, allowing the final product to be refined faster. From spacecraft to cars, large-scale manufacturers are already using VR to test everything:

Ford uses the Oculus Rift, a popular VR headset, to create and refine virtual prototypes generally used for gaming.

  • Creative Marketing Practices 

Virtual reality will redefine the old-fashioned test drive. From cars to vacations, VR allows customers to test every product and experience before purchasing. When customers are keen to make a purchase, they can do it virtually. VR’s immersive experience is impactful, creating a personal connection between consumers and brands and influencing purchasing decisions.

For most, virtual reality (VR) is an alien concept, a technology perhaps limited to gaming. However, the industry is about to grow from $27.9 billion in 2025, and due to the pandemic, there is a rise in VR products and services.

Could VR move from a futuristic concept to reality for remote employees? Yes, it will, as Experts anticipate that nearly 23.5 million jobs worldwide will be utilizing augmented or virtual reality by 2030.

Facebook disclosed its plans to invest over ten billion in funds to help create significant progress toward an unexplored (iteration) of the internet.

It will consist of constantly shared, 3D virtual spaces connected into a (perceived) virtual universe-like (metaverse) technological improvements that could soon remove worker hurdles. It will also unfold many benefits related to training learning that boosts safety awareness, employee engagement, and mitigating expenses related to workplace training.

Examples of Future in VR

  • Check out Zukerburg’s vision for the Metaverse.

With Metaverse, future employees will likely have more immersive work experiences for remote workers. Companies should adopt VR technologies that help in viable future-leaning workplace collaboration. The existing Metaverse is finite, but it looks like it will transform the internet. Facebook has invested a massive amount of funds into the future of the internet space, where you can interact with coworkers, collaborate, and co-create.

  • Zoom-Oculus Workplace AR/VR

Zoom and Oculus, a Facebook/Meta company, joined Zoomtopia in 2021. The duo squad revealed the launch of the new app, which expands virtual collaboration by incorporating VR users and video chat participants, leading to a collaboration market.

The duo aims to let users access Zoom meetings and Zoom whiteboards within virtual workroom environments, leveraging Horizon Workrooms, available on Facebook’s Oculus Quest headset. It is set for availability in early 2022.

  • Webex Hologram 

Comprehending the power of augmented reality (AR), Cisco wants to bridge the gap between virtual and in-person collaboration. Cisco showed the world its new forward-thinking AR/VR tech application, the Webex Hologram.

The platform integrates the rich features of Webex meetings and calling with the functionality of immersive 3D holograms.

It plans to tackle the problem with its photorealistic, real-time, holographic experience for any method that includes remote or many remote employees. Taking a cue from its research, which suggests in Cisco’s Hybrid Work Index – 64% of employees said that they would resign their job if they did not have the option to work remotely.

Conclusion

With technological origins in the early 20th century, Virtual reality is not new, yet its applications are still in infancy. We are only at the surface of virtual reality, and its most significant applications have likely not been developed yet. While 64% have stated that there is a sort of technological contest between AR and VR, implying only one will emerge as dominant, it appears probably that both will play roles in navigating the future of enterprise and entertainment.

Historically, virtual reality has always wedded entertainment with practical use. Today’s virtual reality applications and future ones will continue to lead the trend. The gaming industry will undoubtedly profit from the advancement of VR. Still, it will come as a bit of a surprise to see virtual reality play a game-changing role in how businesses – and industries – work.

Magento vs WooCommerce comparison
Blog, Woocommerce

WooCommerce vs Magento- Which Should You Choose for Your Retail Business?

Magento vs WooCommerce comparison

Table of contents

If you want to build a web store, chances are you’re looking at one of the two best solutions- Magento- Woocommerce. Over 200,000 of the internet’s leading sites have a web store, WooCommerce and Magento.

Together, these platforms account for more than half of leading e-commerce stores. WooCommerce has a quarter of all e-commerce.

Let us compare Magento to WooCommerce, contrasting their strengths and weaknesses and the differences you need to know.

Online Shopping

Let us compare Magento to WooCommerce, contrasting their strengths and weaknesses and the differences you need to know.

Magento and WooCommerce are web commerce platforms that fully support online sales. Each can be scaled to power massive sales operations. These need not be confined only to the web, but we can extend this to both platforms and integrate it into brick-and-mortar stores and combined inventory management. Both platforms are open-source and have been around for almost a decade, and their underlying code makes it easy for anyone to inspect or modify. Both platforms have corporate owners, Adobe and Automattic.

Adobe offers Magento Commerce as a paid version of the platform, while Automattic produces paid plugins that we can use with WooCommerce.

Magento e-commerce

Source- Magento

Magento and WooCommerce follow fundamentally distinct patterns. WooCommerce is a WordPress plugin that fits neatly into the thriving WordPress open-source content ecosystem, connecting you to the WordPress environment.

On the other hand, Magento is a stand-alone solution, similar to Shopify in this regard.

Magento Open Source is a free platform primarily used in smaller stores and start-ups. Adobe hopes that as stores increase, they’ll pay for the more comprehensive Magento Commerce (also known as Adobe Commerce). But Magento Open Source is only available as a self-hosted package.

Woocommerce Platform

Source- WooCommerce

Magento/Adobe Commerce can run on your server, or you can choose Magento Hosted Cloud to have Adobe host it for you. It gives you more flexibility, but it is more complicated than WooCommerce and has more strict requirements – just one reason why Magento has a prominent notion of being harder to deploy.

WooCommerce can be launched on a 2GB server because it is lighter than the Magento eCommerce platform. Also, most hosting providers allow us to install it with a single click. On the other hand, Magento requires many more resources and SSH integration to install the system.

WooCommerce vs Magento: Ease of Use

Most eCommerce store owners are not programmers, so they are looking for accessible eCommerce platforms that are effortless to set up and low-cost options to handle these specialties. Let’s see which of the two platforms, WooCommerce and Magento, offers more accessibility.

WooCommerce

WooCommerce is more comfortable to use than Magento. The installation is uncomplicated, and you can install it with a single click.

WooCommerce is a WordPress plugin, so we have to install WordPress first and then WooCommerce. Everything is easy and self-explanatory.

We can install WooCommerce by going to Dashboard>Plugins>WooCommerce.

WooCommerce comes with a setup wizard, and if you are using the best WooCommerce hosting, such as Cloudways, you can install it within a few seconds.

Magento

Magento, used by many e-commerce platforms, is a compelling platform. It helps you manage and create multiple store views and multi-sites for free. It has many highly sought-after features to improve the customer experience.

WooCommerce vs Magento: Customizations

Store owners frequently want to customize their eCommerce store’s front. They may want to change the layout, add a slider, or remove a category field. Both WooCommerce and Magento offer this capability. But which one provides it best?

Let’s find out

WooCommerce

WooCommerce can easily modify the theme format from the ‘Editor’ tab. All you need to do is, open the Dashboard and click Advanced > Editor.

This way, store owners can easily modify the front layout of their website. Another fantastic feature of WooCommerce is that it lets users build their store the way they want, with the help of the page builder feature.

Using Divi to Build WooCommerce e-store

Using Divi to Build WooCommerce e-store

Magento

Modifying Magento can be challenging as it isn’t as easy as WooCommerce. In Magento, you should first declare your theme in the Magento folder.

Once the theme is set, we must enable it by going to Content> Design > Theme.

Magento themes

WooCommerce vs Magento: Plugins

The development teams of all e-commerce sites understand that no eCommerce platform is perfect and why third-party developers create plugins and extensions for them. Let’s see which one has better plugins than WooCommerce and Magento.

WooCommerce

WooCommerce has many plugins available that help resolve basic and complex issues. Whether to optimize images, add product rules, or optimize shipping, WooCommerce plugins will let you do it all.

Many WooCommerce extensions are free to install on your eCommerce store, but you can also download paid plugins if you want premium features.

Woocommerce Plugins

Magento

Magento also offers multiple extensions that we can install on the eCommerce site to help tackle tasks quickly. These extensions are available as free and paid extensions. As of the writing of this article, there are around 4,800 Magento extensions available. Community developers build these for sales, marketing, and even Content and customizations.

Magento Plugins

WooCommerce vs Magento – SEO and Marketing capabilities

WooCommerce

Magento has many built-in SEO capabilities. It helps avoid content duplication with canonical URLs and other techniques. Using Magento, we can customize the home category and cart pages’ titles and anchor text for navigation links.

Features like rich snippets, Page Builder, rich XML sitemap makes it easy for store owners to build an excellent frontend experience, earn high visibility and search engine rankings and map site contents to search engines.

Magento’s PWA Studio helps build a mobile website with an app-like interface. Progressive web apps or PWAs will help you achieve mobile loading time in under 2 seconds and enable fast checkout experiences.

Conclusion

Perfect For Small Businesses: Woocommerce

We chose WooCommerce over Magento because

  • WooCommerce has a simple GUI that any non-techie can understand and learn.
  • Because of the availability of the builder plugin, there is a need for customization from the source code because
  • It has a variety of free plugins available.
  • It takes fewer resources to manage than Magento.

Ideal for Medium to Large Enterprise Businesses: Magento

  • Magento is a highly secure platform with advanced built-in cache features.
  • It has many built-in features, so it does not need as many extensions as WooCommerce.
  • We can build our own Magento themes from scratch
  • It has a broad range of free extensions and themes available
  • It offers a robust framework for order management and is highly reliable
Uses of AI in transportation
Artificial Intelligence, Blog, Travel

How AI is Transforming the Transport Industry

Uses of AI in transportation

Table of contents

Transportation, the industry that deals with the motion of passengers and commodities from one location to another, has gone through several examinations, analyses, tests, and polishes to reach where it is now. Today, the transportation sector has developed to navigate and move without human assistance. Technical improvements have enabled the transportation sector to progress in its journey of creation and development. One new-age technology that has made it prominent in the industry is AI. Leveraging AI in transportation enables the sector to increase passenger safety, lessen traffic congestion and accidents, decrease carbon emissions, and minimize financial expenses.

Before we proceed further, let us understand

What is AI?

Artificial Intelligence is a technology that strengthens machines with human intelligence. Machines with AI abilities can mimic humans, automate manual jobs, and learn like humans.

With automation, repetitive and time-consuming tasks go into the plate of AI. Realizing this unique potential of AI, enterprises in the transportation industry are making considerable investments to enhance revenue generation and stay ahead of their competitors. According to studies, the global market for AI in transportation will reach 3.5 billion dollars by 2023.

AI in Transport

Artificial intelligence(AI) is transforming the transport sector. It is applied in different transport fields, from helping cars, trains, ships, and airplanes function autonomously to smoother traffic flows. Beyond making our lives easier, AI helps to make all transport methods more intelligent, safer, and more efficient. For instance, AI-led autonomous transport will assist in reducing human errors in many traffic accidents. However, with these opportunities come real challenges like unintended consequences and misuses like cyber-attacks.

Now that we have understood AI let’s dive in to comprehend the use cases.

1) AI in Road Transportation

Road transport is one of the areas where AI is successfully implemented, opening up exceptional levels of collaboration between various road users. Technology firms, Automotive manufacturers, and research groups are researching AI technologies to develop and design automated vehicles for commercial and personal transportation. – Cars are based on sensors (such as GPS, cameras, and radar) combined with actuators, control units, and software. Technologies like these can only take over specific driving actions (like parking); others will soon replace the human driver entirely. In general, it is complex to try automated vehicles in urban areas, as there are many factors, including complicated road systems and infrastructure, where the car needs to predict unpredictable signs of movement. AI technologies are also being used in road traffic management, allowing the analysis of traffic patterns, volumes, and other aspects. These can provide drivers with data on the shortest route to relieve traffic congestion. AI technologies also help keep traffic flowing via traffic signals and lights that rotate in real-time to meet on-the-ground traffic flow demands.

A report by Stanford University states that self-driving cars will reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries.

The graph below shows that Autonomous Car Sales will Surge by 2035

Usecases of AI

AI will be mainstream in a few years because it will eliminate the prospect of an error on the road and make traveling a delightful experience. Elon Musk’s Tesla introduced driverless cars on the market, and many other companies are currently engaged with the same technology.

2)Artificial Intelligence in Aviation

The aviation industry is not unknown to AI; they have been using it for decades in various operations and across the value chain. Yet, we are moving into a new era where AI abilities reach heights and will significantly impact the industry. AI in air traffic operations is in its infancy. Advancements in automation and computing power, utilizing technologies related to machine learning and data analytics models, are being used to improve growing air traffic volumes.

What we understand as advanced business intelligence can substantially alter how airlines run their business in distribution, marketing, sales, distribution, pricing, and fleet management.

AI in Aviation

Another place where AI can make a difference with regard to speed or processes is ground handling. Some instances of high potential use cases include aircraft movement operations (pushback and towing), safety checks, aircraft turnaround operations that provide for loading, fuelling, catering, unloading, anti-icing, and de-icing, and ground transportation on the ramp like passengers, baggage, cargo, and mail.

3) Artificial Intelligence in Railway Transport

Railways were among the most innovative and prominent aspects of the Industrial Revolution. With the rapid growth of road and air transport, rail lost its leading role in innovation. The extensive data generated by digital technologies will be a helpful tool, allowing rail corporations to modify their organizational systems, enhance their performance, and design new added value. To reap the full advantages of digitalization, railways can rely on AI. AI will improve operations, manufacturing, and maintenance for rail operators and infrastructure managers.

Therefore, it can be sensed as a lever to enhance management, lower costs, and improve competitiveness. Intelligent train automation is one of the most indicative examples of uses of AI in rail technology and its contribution to the Automation of Train operation (ATO).

ATO transfers responsibility for overseeing operations from the driver to the train control system, with varying autonomy. Today, AI can use the potency of data powered by sensors positioned on trains or infrastructure components to pull information at the right time and recommend actions for safety and maintenance.

The French operator SNCF  says it will forecast 80 % of incidents on catenaries, supplying electrical power to the trains to display AI applications. According to their research report, predictive maintenance reduced incidents involving train switches by 30%, and this technology is applied in numerous train systems and subsystems today. One of its ongoing AI projects is developing the possibility for a train to share its ‘health diagnostic’ with a fleet manager, who can then remotely supervise maintenance using voice recognition software.

4) Artificial Intelligence in Navigation, Shipping and Ports

Over the past few years, sea and inland waterway transport has significantly developed.  traffic has grown more rampant, raising the stakes of marine protection and calling for advances in maritime surveillance. The further growth of container traffic has called for adaptations to port terminals and better connections with their hinterland. Ever-growing vessel sizes have amplified ships’ pressure on ports and cities.

Digital technologies such as the Internet of Things, big data, and automation are game-changers in this industry. Building on that data, AI is making it possible to analyze the information and gain insights that facilitate decision-making and help improve safety, power efficiency, and logistics. The different AI applications used or tested prove the sector’s focus on introducing such enabling technologies.

Detection of oddities in marine procedures can enhance safety at sea. Automatic identification systems (AIS) help transfer data like a ship’s identification number, position, course, speed, and destination. With recorded ship movements and advanced image recognition, vessels can be identified even if they turn their AIS transmitters off. Insights gained from analyzing such data can be utilized to carry out maintenance and technical functions, thus making a ship more energy-efficient and helping it meet emission control standards.

AI in shipping

The Autonomous Ships Market size will reach $165.61 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 6.8% from 2020 to 2030.

Conclusion

The AI Market in Transportation (AITS) is estimated to grow from USD 1.21 billion in 2017 to USD 10.30 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 17.87% during the forecast period. Artificial intelligence is changing the transport sector. It is applied in multiple transport domains, from helping cars, trains, ships, and airplanes to function autonomously to making traffic flow smoother. Further, making our lives easier can help make all transport modes more intelligent, secure, hygienic, and efficient. Artificial intelligence-led autonomous transport could help reduce human errors in many traffic accidents.

Mobile Banking
Banking, Blog, Mobility

Mobile Banking- How Legacy Banks are Transforming for the New Era

Mobile Banking

Table of contents

Innovation is the law of tomorrow. Disruption has occurred in all industries and is also transforming the financial sector. Banks, which maintained their predominant position due to highly regulated environments, are witnessing the emergence of new competitors that jeopardize stealing a substantial market share.

Perhaps the most astonishing and worrying phenomenon for traditional banking is that these new financial competitors are innovating and expanding.

Transferring Cash from one account to another with a tap of a button and depositing a cheque by clicking just a picture of it are two of the standard mobile banking features banks provide customers. Before we dive further in, let us understand,

What is Mobile Banking?

Financial organizations are taking cues to adopt more sophisticated technologies like big data, blockchain, and machine learning end-products to retain customers. Most competitive banks offer mobile banking to complete financial transactions via smartphone or tablet. To meet the growing market needs of digitally-savvy millennials and Gen Zers, digital and legacy banks will continue to adapt to mobile banking market trends to stay relevant. According to a study, The global mobile banking industry will reach $1,824.7 million by 2026.

Alt Tag for Image 1- Digital Banking Solutions

Digital Banking Solutions

Let us understand the Trends of Mobile Banking in 2022

Using Biometrics in Mobile Banking

A robust mobile banking infrastructure rides on the wave of the highest forms of digital security, and using biometric technology has only quickened the pace of this. Embracing critical points of biometric identification systems like facial recognition, voice recognition, fingerprint scans, and iris scans are becoming the go-to security standards globally.

Biometrics will replace PINs completely and render them obsolete shortly. Research states that 56% of consumers trust biometric techniques to authenticate transactions, and the expected market size will reach $24.59 billion by 2023. It would be fair to say that biometric technology will be the next significant thing to be embraced across all verticals of the financial landscape.

Digital Banking Services

Chatbots

Chatbots are conversational AI-powered methods that have become a benchmark model in the banking sector. Three significant requirements are needed for adopting chatbots –

  • the need for speed.
  • The need for data.
  • The need for personalization.

By delving into personalized consumer data and conversations that help solve their pain points, the financial industry uses chatbots to boost operational efficiencies and deliver a holistic customer experience.

  • Chatbots will reduce business costs by $8 billion by 2022.
  • 75-chatbots will handle 90% of healthcare and banking queries.

Sectors that manage vast volumes of human interaction, like banking, are deploying chatbots into their products. This is greatly decreasing dependency on physical customer service teams and forwarding queries to chat agents.

Adoption of Big Data to Prevent Frauds

Big Data has contributed tremendously towards allowing banks and other financial institutions to collate customer-centric data from traditional and digital sources and provide a personalized banking experience.

Other than this, another critical use case of big data is stopping fraudulent activities using AI-based algorithms. Furthermore, by identifying their customers’ transaction patterns and banking history, important information assists banks in pointing out deviations and detecting suspicious activities.

For example, we can immediately freeze a customer’s credit card if transactions occur simultaneously in separate parts of one country.

A card provider can predict general trends with big data by analyzing customers’ information and identifying fraudulent behavior before the card or account is compromised.

Blockchain

Mobile banking can succeed on the idea of the absence of physical branches altogether and adopting a cloud-based system of banking experience that will do all the work. 

Blockchain has been around for a while now, and the financial sector is keen on adopting it to improve its speed, efficiency, accuracy, and security. The adoption of blockchain has helped this by diverting the focus from digital-only banking. The Financial Industry is trying to experiment with blockchain by replicating existing asset transactions on the blockchain. While this allows for the efficiency of a blockchain solution, what gets missed out is the ecosystem implications of a blockchain solution.

In infrastructure terms, a blockchain is open-source software built to support the real-time transfer of digital assets amongst market participants. Using any selected blockchain’s APIs, we can see a surprising reduction in asset transfer costs and timelines. Most bank implementations today are focused on the same aspect. However, while scaling proof of this concept into a real-world scenario, financial institutions implement the same application layer with all the current checks and balances.

Benefits of Mobile Banking

The pandemic hit the reset button for the industry. Swathes of statistics emphasize the success gained and the ground covered by industry entrants during the last decade. Before 2020, incumbent banks were somewhat away from new, more agile competitors.

  • According to PWC, The global challenger bank market was worth 18.6 billion dollars and will grow to 394.6 billion by 2026.

Legacy Banks and the Digitization Surge

Legacy banks and their ilk have taken a massive hit since the pandemic’s beginning. Reports suggest that customers are more risk-averse during difficult times. Even though traditional banks are not skyrocketing in terms of gaining trust from end consumers, they are preferred and stable choices for more than a few.

It is a given that the legacy banks should have been on the frontline of a digital revolution. Still, the impact of COVID-19 demanded more digital banking services and bandwidth than ever before. However, customers stuck with the traditional industry players rather than flocking to new digital-only banks during the pandemic.

Despite this sudden surge, traditional banks may not have progressed in market demand. A deeper look at some figures around the current state of legacy banks’ digital transformations makes for a somewhat grim reading.

  • Approximately 40 percent of banks who state they’re more than halfway through their digital transformation strategies haven’t deployed cloud computing or APIs
  • Only a quarter of these banks have implemented chatbot technology.
  • Just 14 percent have deployed machine learning tools.

It may seem that legacy banks have not made as many inroads into the digital future as they need to compare to progressive digital players. Legacy banks will have to change this because customer expectations are becoming increasingly digital-focused, reflected in their banking attitude.

A report by EY states that many customers say that their banking practices varied over the long term because of COVID-19.

Lack of progress is an evident lack of awareness from some banks where they must be on the digital roadmap. According to the Cornerstone Advisors study that cites the developments above, over a third of banks believe they’re more than halfway through their digital transformation.

Conclusion

Legacy banks have made many digital strides during the pandemic, edging closer towards digitization. Suddenly, they no longer play catchup and face imminent disintermediation. However, the job is not done here; one could even argue that the job will not be done because of the ever-evolving digital technology; instead, digital transformation is constantly changing and adapting. For now, traditional banks can reflect on how far they’ve come since the pandemic’s beginning and pause on what could be regarded as a sector reset.

But it’s an action that should be taken quickly. Any complacency will quickly see legacy banks lose ground to a new wave of resurgent digital players.

Technologies will continue to evolve, existing challenger banks will regroup, and new ones to challenge the current status quo.

Robotics Automation
Blog, Robotics

The Future of Robotics Over The Next Few Years

Robotics Automation

Table of contents

When we think of robots, we usually imagine sci-fi-inspired, human-like automatons. While these types of machines are popular now, there are many other kinds of robots operating in the world today.

But let us understand

What are Robots? And How will they Change the World?

Let’s begin with some definitions. Most of us are acquainted with the notion of robots but may stumble to depict them as different entities from other machines.

‘Robotic systems are defined as cognitive, interconnected, interactive and physical tools that can sense the environment with the help of sensors, understand events, make plans using algorithms executed in computer programs, and perform actions enabled by actuators’.

Robots are tools that can autonomously sense, plan, act, and respond like humans. They can perform tasks independently, extend human capabilities, and mimic human actions.

What is Robotics?

Robotics is the area of creating robots. It’s a multidisciplinary specialization where technology, computer science, and engineering assemble to make a human-like machine. Robotics focuses more on the design, construction, operation, and use of robots in various environments.

Industrial Robots are anticipated to grow significantly over the coming years. A report estimates that the Robotics sector will be worth $260 billion by 2030. Much of this evolution will come from professional assistance robots that will perform practical tasks for humans, such as cleaning, delivering, transporting, making an appointment, and many more.

The previous few years have introduced remarkable developments and innovations that make our lives more comfortable and beneficial. There is no refuting that the 21st century has brought phenomenal innovations and breakthroughs, from the proliferation and rise of smartphones to the unprecedented development of machine learning, AI, robotics, and autonomous technology. Robotics has gone from fictional movies to real-world scenarios, performing intricate tasks and changing the world we live in.

Robotic adoption is and will likely become a critical determinant of business productivity. Robots can reshape how businesses are accomplished and are intended to bring more automation capabilities to the enterprise. Recent innovations in robotics have delivered several methods to integrate robots into human life.

Robots are already transforming our lives: cleaning robots patrol our living rooms; interactive robots attend to our children; industrial robots help assemble vehicles; medical robots help perform surgeries in hospitals; rescue robots search and save lives in disasters. Top tech firms are in a continued race to transform how robotics are executed in people’s day-to-day lives, leading us to an exciting future.

The line between individual learning and classroom setting is already beginning to blur; cloud-connected home robots are becoming part of our everyday lives. A recent report from Interact Analysis predicts that the annual cobot revenues will reach $1.94 billion in 2028, accounting for 15.7% of the collaborative robot market. These stats show how robots will profoundly affect the future workplace and become capable of taking on multiple organizational roles.

Robots will Create More Jobs.

People have been worried about the power of efficient automation, as they presume that robots will steal their jobs. A report by the PwC estimates that between 2017 and 2037, artificial intelligence and robotics will displace up to 7 million jobs. However, the decrease in expenses caused by AI and robots will generate 7.2 million new jobs, giving a net increase of 200,000 jobs. Robots will always create jobs because change is coming, and some industries will flourish with Robots.

Industrial Robots

How Will Robotics Change the Future?

Robotics is an industry that has more than 500 companies making developments that can adequately break down into four types:

Conventional industrial robots and cobots, chatbots.

Stationary professional services (like medical and agricultural applications),

Mobile professional services (like professional cleaning, construction, and underwater activities),

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are used to transport large and small loads in logistics or assembly lines.

Robotics future

Robots are Game-Changers in the Medical Field.

One area that is blooming is robotic applications in medicine or healthcare. Robots can impact many healthcare practices, including surgery, rehabilitation, therapy, and mental health. Nevertheless, this industry is heavily dependent on efficiency, precision, and advances in robotics.

The industry is evolving to support this. An International Federation of Robotics report states that the total sales of robotics in healthcare were around $1.9 billion, accounting for 29 percent. A report by Markets and Markets says that the medical robots market is about to reach $16.74 billion by 2023. The most critical applications in Healthcare are in robot-assisted surgery, therapy, and rehabilitation robots- which aid people with a disability or provide physical or cognitive therapy.

Robotics in Healthcare

Robotic surgery will have massive potential. Organizations like Microbot, Intuitive Surgical, and Mazor are top industry players in robotic surgery technology. Robot-assisted surgeries are already being utilized in significant procedures by the British National Health Service (NHS). Boston Children’s Hospital in Massachusetts operated alongside doctors to fix a child’s heart valve.

Robots could make farming much more effortless.

An array of new technologies are transforming the Agriculture Industry. Artificial intelligence, drone technology, 5G, and robotics are helping usher in a new age of farming. Internet of Things technology is becoming more affordable and accessible, speeding up this change. Developments in autonomous technologies assist farmers with driverless tractors, milking robots, automated harvesting systems, and many more.

Agriculture Robots

According to Markets and Markets, the agricultural robot market will increase from $7.4 billion to $20.6 billion by 2025. Different areas within the industry that are likely to experience growth are planting, crop seeding, crop monitoring, fertilization, and irrigation. Robotics will also assist in agricultural areas that lack workers, such as crop harvesting, or hazardous areas, such as pesticide administration. The future of Farming looks promising.

Robots will possess the ability to learn. 

Today, Simulation tools will help us teach robots how to resolve difficulties in the real world. However, this brute force method isn’t adequate because situational complexity often makes it impossible to train robots to respond to unpredictable events flexibly and intelligibly. Nevertheless, new research from OpenAI states that focusing on guiding neural networks to navigate progressively more difficult and randomized environments appears to produce solid results. The first application involves a human-like robotic hand that can solve a Rubik’s Cube without human intervention. This training requires 50 hours of tremendous computing power, using the cloud and distributed computing. Propelled by improvements in computer science, this approach needed to automation will transition from rule-based to goal-based. The robotic capacities that emerge from this shift will be adored in custom production processes.

Semi Autonomous machines will manage tasks in pre-mapped conditions. 

By 2030, it is estimated that Level 3 autonomous vehicles will account for about 8% of new car sales. Level 3 mobile robots will autonomously navigate efficiently in predefined settings, like a warehouse, signaling or discontinuing when support is needed from a human. At Level 3, the car temporarily drives on relatively unencumbered roads and in clear weather conditions. It cautions the driver to take over when faced with a situation it cannot handle.

Level 4 self-navigation is fully autonomous, with a backup system that can turn the machine off in unexpected situations without human intervention. The capabilities will be perfected around 2030. We can experience self-driving mobile devices in limited environments, like room service robots in hotels or last-mile delivery robots.

Robotics Automation

The Military will use Robots.

The ever-changing geopolitical landscape has motivated more governments to expand their use of robots in warfare. According to Research and Markets, the increase in terrorist activities has been a significant factor in developing robots on the battlefield.

The possibilities of robotics in the military and defense are vast. Robots will not only knock off snipers but also rescue people. We can expect more uses of Robots to help the military with surveillance, intelligence, reconnaissance, search and rescue, combat support, mine clearance, explosive ordnance, and firefighting. Change is coming- 5G technology, more responsive artificial intelligence, and the emergence of smart cities are all likely to accelerate these changes.

Conclusion

A  report from McKinsey states that automation and machines will transform our work. The report predicts that activities that require physical and manual skills will drop by 18% by 2030, while those jobs that need primary cognitive skills will decrease by 28%. Ultimately, robots can enhance our lives and shoulder the burden of physically challenging or repetitive jobs. They will help improve Healthcare, make transport more efficient, and give us more freedom to pursue creative endeavors.

Technology and Strategic Aspects
5G Network, Artificial Intelligence, Blog, Internet of Things, Mobility

Mobile App Development 2022: Technology and Strategic Aspects to Look At

Technology and Strategic Aspects

Table of contents

The Mobile App Development Scenario So Far

Did you know? Publishers released 2 million new apps and games in 2021, bringing the total number of apps and games ever released to over 21 million. Not just that, over 4,35,000 apps were downloaded every minute in 2021! With more smartphone adoption and deeper internet penetration, a significant rise in the publishing and downloading new apps and games went as expected. However, the still prevalent pandemic further added to this rise as more people stayed home and switched to remote working systems and applications that kept them engaged. Over the last year or two, we also observed how the adoption of mobile apps has cut across the barriers of skeptical use cases and penetrated the industries where it initially seemed less promising.

As the wide-scale adoption of mobile applications continues, it is needless to say that every business, regardless of size and industry, must switch to mobile apps for internal or external stakeholders’ engagement and operations. We have already seen how the digital transformation wave disrupted businesses that failed to identify opportunities in time. As a subset of digital transformation, mobile app development for enterprises is another opportunity that enterprises are already making the best of. Those who haven’t leveraged mobile apps yet also consider it, which applies to every industry. But there’s one important thing enterprises using mobile apps for business or thinking of adopting must know. Mobile app adoption isn’t a one-time thing. Like a business initiative, a mobile app must be gradually scaled, upgraded, and kept up-to-date with the latest trends that define how end consumers use apps. This includes not just the technical side but also the strategic side.

Top Technology Trends Defining Mobile App Development in 2022

Mobile apps for businesses initially intend to connect better with consumers, engage them, or serve as a point of contact that is preferable to customers. Internally, it helps to streamline operations and improve efficiency. But even then, there’s always scope for improvement and enhancement. And with advancing technology, the chances of a mobile app becoming less efficient, losing to competitor apps, and becoming obsolete are quite high. At [x]cube LABS, we work with multiple technologies, and here are the top technologies we identified that will complement the power of mobile apps.

  1. 5G

    5G has been a buzzword for quite some time now. A report by Trendforce states that in 2022, 47.5% of devices will have 5G. As 5G connections globally continue to grow, it’ll impact how and what mobile apps can offer to end-users. For instance, the improved speed, expected to be around a hundred times faster than 4G, would reduce the latency significantly. This means that video streaming apps will get smoother, the integration and performance of integrated AR/VR will be faster, and developers can explore more features to add without worrying about the negative impact of slower networks.

  2. Apps for foldable devices

    According to Statista, foldable phones shipments globally are forecast to grow to 50.1 million units by 2022, from the projected 3.2 million units in 2019. As an app developer, one must remember that they can provide a better immersive experience with a larger screen size if they plan to implement AR/VR, a video streaming feature, or games that can provide a better experience when provided with larger screen space. Not just that, a larger screen size in foldable phones also means the scope for multitasking parallelly. This opens up many opportunities for engineers to make their apps stand out innovatively.

  3. AI and ML 

    AI and ML have been noteworthy trends in mobile app development, and there’s a lot more happening in the space. Just last year, many AI-based fun apps that gave moving effects to photos and face morphing on movie clips witnessed a lot of engagement. Besides new innovative ways of engaging users, existing apps can enhance user experience using AI and ML capabilities. Google Maps, for instance, introduced a live indoor navigation feature last year. Apple took ML applications to an all-new level by allowing developers to load pre-existing features and create new ones using deep learning. This year, using AI and ML to improve existing apps and the overall user experience would play a major role and, hence, should be the top priority of developers who are ready to scale their apps.

  4. Mobile app security 

    With the hype around mobile app security and data, even users who didn’t bother about their data have become more conscious about sharing it and how it will be used. Data, privacy, and security are now becoming selling propositions for many companies. Take Apple’s advertisement, for example, where they tell users they can now choose who tracks their information.

    With growing awareness of data and security, consumers want to have the assurance that their data is protected. This doesn’t mean that the phone or app will not share its data with unwanted parties; it also means that the data is secure and protected by the parties with whom they have shared it. Therefore, Privacy and security measures are becoming more crucial from an enterprise security point of view and a consumer’s perspective. Some businesses are taking security to the next level by exploring and implementing artificial intelligence in cybersecurity in addition to best practices for enterprise security in general.

  5. Blockchain

    Blockchain, a hot topic in technology for another year now, is not slowing down any time soon either. The security that comes with blockchain is well-known. Mobile app development companies plan to create mobiles and apps supporting blockchain use cases and applications. HTC and Samsung already released devices that support blockchain technology- the HTC exodus 1 and Galaxy S10, respectively. It is only a matter of time before cryptocurrency-enabled payments catch up, and hence, developers must anticipate this as a thing of the very near future, if not today, when considering new technologies and trends in mobile app development.

  6. Predictive analytics

    By leveraging the power of predictive analytics, developers can create apps that are futuristic, high-performing, and exceed customer expectations. We’ve seen customer-centricity as a key factor that decides the success or failures of an app. As the ways of achieving customer-centricity continue to evolve, an essential tool that comes into play is predictive analytics. Developers can use historic data on customer behavior and analytics to not just provide them what they like but to reduce pain points as well, as early as in the UX wireframing stage, if not later. This can significantly reduce cost in the development cycle as well as the one arising from user attrition.

  7. IoT

    The Internet of Things is definitely not a new concept but its seamless integration with mobile devices is an obvious expectation from mobile app users worldwide. Given the penetration of both IoT devices and mobile internet worldwide, the scope for apps and devices that support IoT integration is large.  According to a report, the Internet of Things market is expected to reachGalaxy S10, out of which,  $190 billion is expected to come from mobile apps. At [x]cube LABS we have already worked on solutions that integrate IoT and mobile apps- from wearable devices and IoT-enabled wallets to connect lighting systems, and more.

Extensive Technology Expertise Needs a Robust Strategy to Succeed

We’re at a point in the technology ecosystem where acquiring expertise over new technologies might appear easier, but the success would depend on how effectively and strategically it fits where it is being implemented. We mentioned in our e-book titled Creating a Mobile App Development Strategy: A Comprehensive Guide for Enterprises how we have seen many enterprises fail because they simply decide to go after loaded features or copy what the competitors are doing when, in reality, the success boils down to how effectively and conveniently can your solution solve a real problem and ease customer pain points. This requires a 360-degree approach to mobile app development where the latest technologies complement your mobile app strategy. You must examine market research, customer-centricity, analytics objectively, and much more before you zero down on your choice of technologies and start its implementation. And that’s where an enterprise like [x]cube can help.

We have listed seven critical parameters that strengthen your mobile app strategy.

  • Product-market fit: Identify the product-market fit by defining your target audience, doing industry and competitor analysis, identifying the market size, and more
  • Customer centricity: Accentuate your value offering and ensure that the end product provides value to your customers by solving critical pain points
  • U/UX: Develop seamless customer journeys, eliminate points of friction, and take your UI/UX to the next level
  • Performance: Keep a tab on the technical issues that hinder the performance of your app or are likely to create problems when the load increases
  • Strategy analysis: Something that goes without saying, you need to assess the operational and financial viability of your app and include it as a part of your overall plan
  • Value proposition: Position your app effectively among your customers and pitch it effectively against competitors; refer to Apple’s ad on privacy example above!
  • Outreach: Reach your target audience to gain initial traction, but also monitor reviews and ratings to improve your app further.

As a reader looking to start this year with mobile app development, you can contact us for a free consultation on your existing or new mobile app development initiatives.

Blockchain in Healthcare Today
Blockchain, Blog, Healthcare

How Blockchain will benefit the Healthcare Industry in 2022 and Beyond

Blockchain in Healthcare Today

Table of contents

Blockchain is currently a trending topic in the corporate world. Multiple analyses have revealed that blockchain implementation can save money, increase efficiency, and raise overall industry performance. According to a report by Investopedia, industrial blockchain investment will reach $11.7 billion in 2022.

Before we dive into the specific industry in question, let’s take a closer look at the technology and its capabilities.

What is Blockchain?

Blockchains are shared, immutable logs of peer-to-peer transactions built from linked transaction blocks stored in a digital ledger. Blockchain depends on established cryptographic methods that let each participant in a network interact without any preexisting confidence between the parties. Blockchain has no central authority; transaction records are stored and distributed across all network participants. Interactions with the Blockchain will be known to all participants and require verification by the network before any information is added, enabling collaboration between network participants while recording an immutable audit trail of all interactions.

How does Blockchain work?

Blockchain consists of three major elements:

Blockchain for Healthcare

  1. Distributed network: The decentralized P2P network architecture consists of nodes of network participants. Each participant stores an exact copy of the Blockchain and is authorized to validate and authenticate digital transactions for the network.
  2. Shared ledger: The fellows in the network log the ongoing digital transactions into a shared ledger. They run algorithms and verify the offered transaction, and once a majority of associates validate it, it is added to the shared ledger.
  3. Digital transaction: Digital transaction: Any digital asset stored in a blockchain can be allowed as a digital transaction. Each transaction will be structured into a ‘block,’ each block will consist of a cryptographic hash to add the transactions in chronological order.

Envisioning Blockchain in healthcare

Critical healthcare information is spread across multiple healthcare systems, and occasionally, it may not be available when needed the most. The current healthcare infrastructure often consists of inadequate information that is difficult to handle and requires specific tweaks. According to Gartner Hype Cycle, Blockchain has moved beyond the “innovation trigger” and is just at the “pinnacle of inflated expectations” and could transform how we view healthcare and data together.

Why should Blockchain be incorporated in healthcare?

One of the most important things that make blockchain technology services in healthcare is the lack of a central administrator. Why? Because a database is tangible, consisting of bits and bytes. If the database contents are stored in the physical memory of a system, anyone who can access the system could corrupt the data within.

blockchain technology in healthcare

As Healthcare Digital services trade with confidential patient information and need fast access to information, Blockchain can streamline these medical records and securely enable their sharing. Blockchain offers access security, scalability, and data privacy in a single go. The idea of Blockchain in healthcare today is disruptive, but it won’t be an elixir to soak down data management issues. Instead, it would be an evolutionary journey where Blockchain is implemented step by step.

Large corporations like Google, Visa, and Deloitte are investing substantially in blockchain technology. Several multinational organizations, including Spotify, are developing blockchain-based services to manage copyrights and IBM to offer monitoring systems for shipping and retail chains. Other areas, like healthcare, transportation, banking, and more, might significantly assist new technologies.

Blockchain’s rise will ultimately lead to a revolution that fundamentally alters how we witness the world.

Cryptocurrency investors worldwide are enjoying the advantages of blockchain technology’s rise. Over 50 million blockchain wallets and ten thousand cryptocurrencies are now used worldwide. Various businesses have reaped the benefits of these new kinds of global currency. As technology advances, companies worldwide will conduct transactions without worrying about currency fluctuations.

Artificial Intelligence, AR & VR, Blockchain, and Robotics are the leading healthcare technologies. Technological advancements have enabled healthcare app developers and investors to open new doors to better service and a healthier society.

A recent survey revealed that 53% of healthcare executives see Blockchain as one of the five priorities. According to BIS Research, the global healthcare market investment in technology will reach $5.61 billion by 2025. An IDC report states that 55% of all healthcare applications will have employed Blockchain for commercial purposes by 2025..

Emerging health technologies

So, without any further ado, let us glance at some of the best benefits of Blockchain in healthcare technology that can revolutionize the healthcare industry for the greater good

Benefits of Blockchain in Healthcare

1)Patient-centric electronic health records

Research published by Johns Hopkins University states that the third primary reason for death in the US was medical errors resulting from poorly coordinated care. Healthcare systems in every country are stumbling with the problem of data silos, indicating that patients and their healthcare providers have a vague idea of medical histories. One potential solution is creating a blockchain-based system for medical records connected to existing electronic medical record software that acts as an overarching, single view of a patient’s record. It is paramount to emphasize patient data that does not go on the Blockchain. Every new record appended to the Blockchain, whether a prescription, a medic’s note, or a lab result, is decrypted into a unique hash function: a small string of letters and numbers. Every hash function is unique and can only be decoded by the person who owns the data.

2) Supply Chain Transparency

A primary challenge across the healthcare sector is ensuring the origin of medical goods to guarantee authenticity. With the help of a blockchain-based system, we can track items from manufacturing to every stage of the supply chain. This method gives customers complete visibility and transparency of the goods they buy.

Supply chain translucency is a top preference, particularly in developing markets where fake prescription medicines cause tens of thousands of deaths annually. It is increasingly necessary for medical appliances, which are increasing quickly with the adoption of more remote health monitoring, and therefore also attracting the interest of bad actors.

Pivotal uses of the Blockchain when paired with AI:

  • Customer confidence: Customer confidence: The ability to track each package’s end-to-end provenance, integrating with manufacturers, wholesale, shipping, etc.
  • Supply chain optimization: Once all the data is in one place, companies apply AI to predict demand better and optimize supply accordingly.

blockchain solutions for healthcare

3)Patient Data Management and Sharing

The Health and Human Services office received notifications of over 350 data breaches, disclosing 13,020,821 healthcare records.

HIPAA has strict restrictions on the privacy of patient records. Those records cannot be isolated, as several parties other than the patient and their physician may have to assess their well-being. At the same time, handling patient data using a traditional approach can be a complex task since this data is dispersed over different healthcare databases.

Blockchain resolves these issues by delivering a unified platform for storing and managing all relevant data in one location while preserving security and access control. We can store patient data as blockchain blocks that are identifiable through the patient’s unique ID. This method authorizes sharing health information (blocks) without revealing the ID if the patient wishes to remain anonymous.

Blockchain is a trustworthy solution for population health data management as well. With the standard approach, information about every patient is distributed over multiple systems that are not interoperable- This makes aggregating health data for a particular population cluster challenging. Blockchain thus becomes a secure medium for individuals to participate in population health studies and monetize the outcome of these studies.

4)Drug traceability

Blockchain is a dependable solution to assure drug authenticity, enabling tracking of every drug to its roots. We can use Blockchain to encapsulate data about the drug at every phase of its lifecycle. Every block containing drug data will have a hash linked to another block and a timestamp that we cannot alter.

The transactions in the Blockchain will be visible to all authorized parties, and the drug’s movement from one party to another can be tracked in real time. Medicine buyers will also ensure the authenticity of purchased products by scanning the QR code and looking up the data about the manufacturer and other relevant supply chain parties. Distributing a fake drug will be next to impossible in such a setup.

5)Cryptocurrency payments

There are blockchain use cases in healthcare related to payment. For instance, Blockchain makes it possible to receive medical assistance and pay for it with cryptocurrency. One such example is Aveon Health, A technology-centred medical group. Aveon Health acknowledges the advantages of using Bitcoin as a virtual currency. Users can send and receive Bitcoins electronically using wallet software.

Micropayments are another idea enabled via Blockchain. They are unique value-based models that reward patients for following their doctors’ instructions and adhering to prescribed lifestyles. Operating only on a specific blockchain, this micropayment model records every detail about the patient’s activities related to the treatment reexamination.

Conclusion

According to IBM, 70 % of healthcare leaders anticipate that the most significant effect of Blockchain within the health sector is the advancement of clinical trial management, providing a decentralized framework and regulatory compliance for sharing electronic health records (EHR). The healthcare sector is a problem-driven, data- and personnel-intensive domain. Accessing, editing, and trusting the data emerging from its activities is critical for the sector’s operations.

use of blockchain in healthcare

If we divide the operations within the healthcare sector into triage, health problem-solving, clinical decision-making, realization, and assessment of knowledge-based care, achieving the desired health outcomes hinges on engaging a multidisciplinary group of health personnel that apply the most pertinent knowledge of technologies and skills when dealing with the patient.

A blockchain-powered health information system has the potential to unlock the actual value of interoperability. Blockchain-based systems can reduce or eliminate the friction and costs of current intermediaries.

Cloud Computing Technology Trends in 2022
Blog, Cloud Computing

New Cloud Computing Trends to Watch out for in 2022.

Cloud Computing Technology Trends in 2022

Table of contents

Cloud computing boomed in 2020 as the entire workforce turned virtual. How did businesses react to the pandemic? By concentrating on the supply of digital services. A Gartner report foretells that in 2022, global cloud revenue is estimated to total $474 billion. Also, Cisco considers that cloud data centres now process as much as 94% of the total workloads.

Cloud computing trends depict how new technology alters firms’ functioning and IT expenditures. Cloud computing is increasingly adopting cloud services. It has become critical for many firms seeking to work smarter and accomplish more quickly. With access to on-demand processing capability, highly scalable platforms, and a more suitable and flexible approach to IT expenditure, the cloud has advanced from cutting-edge technology to an indispensable IT resource.

Throughout 2020-21, every industry, sector, and market worldwide endured the cloud computing revolution. This shift towards cloud platforms and remote working will only rise in 2022 as companies adopt remote working as a full-time model.

The three significant public cloud providers – Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure – achieved substantial revenue growth in 2021, thanks to the growing demand for cloud services. According to the  Synergy Research Group  Q3, enterprise spending on cloud infrastructure services passed the $45 billion mark. Infrastructure investments by cloud service providers enabled them to generate over $150 billion in revenues from cloud infrastructure services. Amazon, Microsoft, and Google continue to attract half of the worldwide cloud spending, with market shares of 33%, 20%, and 10%, respectively.

Cloud Infrastructure Services Market

A report by Gartner states that the adoption rate of cloud storage increased by 23% in 2021, totaling $332 billion, and is expected to reach over $400 billion by 2022. This upgrade in adoption supports the changing work scenarios as organizations seek business continuity, cost efficiency, and improved future scalability. Thus, it has become paramount for businesses to acclimate the existing cloud technologies in their organizations, bolster their grip on the trends that define the future, and embrace the benefits of cloud computing.

Enhancing cloud platform capabilities through various technologies and tools will be the most significant trend 2022. Multiple new cloud technology applications will also be possible. Here are a few cloud computing trends for the coming year.

1) Kubernetes facilitating Blockchain:

Blockchain Development is a revolutionary technology that delivers a tamper-evident, shared digital ledger that registers data in a private or public network. Blockchain Development Services help organizations maintain accurate records of transactions without depending on any central authority. Kubernetes is an open-source container orchestration medium that automatically lets organizations scale, deploy, and manage containerized infrastructure. Public blockchain infrastructure does not support ample data storage and management, merging blockchain systems for big data applications. However, Kubernetes for Blockchain enables rapidly scale environments and assures high availability by consistently running multiple containers for critical services.

Deploying blockchain networks via Kubernetes clusters will be the adoption standard in the coming years. They solve Blockchain’s two significant issues: inherent complexity and integration into the existing infrastructure. Blockchain on Kubernetes allows service interoperability between organizations that are structured differently. The additional benefits of Blockchain on Kubernetes are simplified deployments and upgradeability.

2)AI in Cloud Computing 

As technology evolves, Artificial Intelligence will be one of the most valuable technologies with cloud computing. Technology alliances explore new ways to incorporate AI for Big Data processing, improving business functions and output.

Using AI solutions and infrastructure, cloud platforms aim to improve efficiency. AI supports organizations in managing and automating internal processes smartly. This framework helps organizations adapt and scale to their evolving business needs more efficiently. In other words, the collaboration between AI and cloud computing will soon become a leading trend. A study by IBM states that 65% of businesses agree that AI is critical for business success and strategy.

Machine learning platforms demand massive processing power and colossal bandwidth for training and processing data; cloud data centers make this available to anyone. Most of the “everyday” AI we see – from Google Search to Instagram filters – live in the cloud. Technology that directs traffic from data centers to our devices and also the one that handles storage infrastructure is created on machine learning. The growth and evolution of cloud and AI are indistinguishably interwoven, which will only become more true during 2022 and beyond.

3)Boom in Cloud gaming, VR and AR 

We will witness a massive outbreak of cloud gaming in the coming years. Platforms like Google’s Stadia and Amazon Luna will determine the direction of the cloud gaming realm in 2022. The coming of Cloud Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) has made headsets more inexpensive and fostered the growth of cloud gaming across various industries.

The increasing adoption of online games will positively impact the value of the cloud gaming market in the coming years. As more organizations today understand the growth in processing power, flexibility, and scalability that cloud-based systems provide, cloud adoption is expected to grow. The Worldwide cloud gaming market is anticipated to reach USD 56.57 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.7%.

An increase in cloud computing adoption and the finding of new methods to leverage cloud-based systems to create insights and efficiency are up to be seen in 2022. The route to adoption and the timeframe for accomplishing the cloud may differ for each organization, but one thing stands sure: there will not be going back to the old methods.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

4)Cloud Security 

Cloud Computing Security

Cloud Security is a major concern. Companies and clients are concerned about IT security and data compliance. Today’s cloud solutions are designed to fix these concerns, thus creating a massive demand for Secure Access Service Edge(SASE) and Cloud-based disaster recovery practices.

  1. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)- Corporations are reviewing their security and risk management approach as they have to access services and data from personal devices outside their corps’ IT networks. This SASE is an approach to IT security that permits organizations to undertake new cloud services swiftly and ensure that their systems are protected.
  2. Cloud-based disaster recovery– Cloud-based disaster recovery helps organizations back up their data on an external cloud server. It is less expensive and time-efficient, benefiting from an outside source’s handling. Businesses frequently use cloud-based disaster recovery for critical servers and applications like massive databases and ERP systems.

5)Hybrid and Multi-cloud infrastructure 

Companies today understand that cloud data management isn’t about having one distinct cloud platform or infrastructure. It’s about choosing the right solution for the job at hand. In some cases, this isn’t about the cloud at all;

In 2021, the emerging cloud trend was that corporations are becoming less apprehensive about sticking with one vendor and thus embracing a multi-cloud or hybrid cloud that offers the best out of each solution.

A report by Flexera states that 92 percent of enterprises have a multi-cloud strategy, and 80 percent have a hybrid cloud strategy.

Hybrid services combine the strengths of different approaches. Data that need quick and frequent access can be kept on public servers, and sensitive data can be kept on private servers with a monitored permit. A well-integrated and balanced hybrid approach gives firms the best of both worlds.

Hybrid Cloud Solutions

The multi-cloud model helps companies choose cloud offerings best suited to their application environments, business requirements, and availability requirements.

Although a considerable number of adoptions of hybrid-cloud and multi-cloud strategies exist, 2022 will witness more enterprises and business leaders on the edges of these models and embrace them to appreciate elasticity and agility in the cloud.

According to a report, “Gartner estimates that in 2022, global cloud market share will increase to $474 billion. By 2025, Gartner estimates that over 95% of new digital workloads will be deployed on cloud-native platforms, up from 30% in 2021.

Conclusion- 

Gartner predicts that more than 85% of enterprises will embrace a cloud-first principle by 2025. Companies will not be able to fully execute their digital strategies without using cloud-native architectures and technologies. Cloud computing infrastructure is now the spine of every delivery pipeline and digital service, including social media, streaming entertainment, connected cars, and Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure.

New or forthcoming ultra-fast networks like 5G and Wi-Fi 6E indicate that more data will be streamed from the cloud, and they are also welcoming new types of data streaming.

Cloud computing technology effectively makes every other technology lighter, faster, and more accessible from a customer’s point of view. It will be a crucial driver in migrating more services to cloud platforms.

Benefits of Artificial Intelligence in the Energy Sector
Artificial Intelligence, Blog, Technology

Applications of AI in the energy sector

Benefits of Artificial Intelligence in the Energy Sector

Table of contents

AI is the engineering and science of developing intelligent machines and brilliant computer programs. In this context, AI is a series of techniques, processes, and technologies that exhibit intelligent behavior by analyzing the environments around them and taking necessary actions.

Artificial intelligence is gaining a lot of applicability now, faster than ever before, because we’ve learned that the human workforce cannot always be there. The pandemic has increased the number of companies interested in AI technologies, thus making them modify, change, and accelerate their adoption strategies.

The energy sector is not falling behind in adopting and leveraging artificial intelligence’s benefits. Many AI applications aim to optimize processes, predict issues and opportunities, and help save money. According to a report by BNEF estimates, the Economic Transition Scenario will need a $15.1 trillion investment in solar, wind, and batteries and a $14 trillion investment in power grids by 2050.

AI is starting to show some of its most potent effects in the utility and power industries. Power companies are increasingly counting on artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the energy supply. The global energy industry faces a problem because of the increased demand, supply, efficiency, and demand patterns. Still, the issue concerns the absence of analytics required for optimum management. These difficulties are aggravated in a lot of developing countries. Here’s where AI. It plays a significant role.

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the power sector is increasingly reaching emerging economies. It has a significant impact because these emerging economies understand that clean, inexpensive, and dependable electricity is essential for growth.

According to statistics by Harvard, by 2040, world energy consumption is expected to increase by 15.3%.

AI is the technology of the century. It might seem that the combination of the energy sector and artificial intelligence is too complicated to be efficient. But take a glance at the top applications of AI in the energy sector and understand how we can incorporate AI in energy firms.

  1. Preventive Maintenance

    Predictive maintenance plays a crucial role in the energy industry as the resources have to be managed carefully and efficiently. Otherwise, it can be hazardous. Faulty equipment or defects in pipes/wiring/machines or fault-susceptible process lines pose a considerable threat, and humans cannot predict every breakdown. Here’s where AI comes into play: artificial intelligence helps identify defects like corrosion, cracks, and inadequate insulation and helps prevent failures.

    Predictive maintenance lets organizations maximize the utilization of equipment or machine components while maintaining all safety standards. AI. Helps to validate production quality and provide deep insights into defects with the help of analytics. AI-powered Fault Detection solutions are pretty economical and also cost-effective. Predictive analytics help the operators evaluate the equipment’s health, enabling proactive measures to prevent a catastrophe. Schneider Electric uses Microsoft’s machine learning capabilities to remotely monitor and configure pumps in the oil and gas field. Early detection of a pump failure can save up to $1 million in repair costs.

  2. AI in Grid Management

    With the increase in decentralization and digitalization of the power grid, managing many grid participants and balancing the grid is challenging; this requires evaluating and analyzing an overflow of data. Artificial Intelligence helps process this data quickly and efficiently.

    Smart grids are another area of application where AI. Plays a key role. Especially with an upsurge in the number of volatile power generation plants like solar and wind, it has become essential for power generation industries to respond intelligently to energy consumption. These intelligent Grids transport not only electricity but also data. AI. It helps to analyze, evaluate, and control this data from different consumers, producers, and storage facilities connected with the help of the grid.

    It helps stabilize the power grid by detecting irregular consumption, generation, and transmission in real time and developing appropriate solutions.

    The adoption of electric vehicles and electrification of heating systems in the next 10-15 years will add complexity to global energy grids. Dependency on a central utility to produce and transmit electricity will reduce as other sources start making energy through solar panels, storing it in batteries and electric vehicles, and feeding it back to the grid.

  3. Intelligent Resource Management.

    Resource management is the next phase after AI. Forecasting and preventive maintenance for the energy sector. With intelligent AI-powered predictive mechanisms, energy suppliers can dispatch their resources better, prepare for demand in advance, predict issues, and save resources whenever possible. Proper resource management helps increase efficiency and lower costs. Power-saving with AI. Will help lower utility bills and customize services for end clients, one of the meaningful benefits of artificial intelligence in the energy market. Applying AI in resource management can cut business and end-customer costs. How? Energy providers can get accurate forecasts that improve energy scheduling and power plant dispatch thanks to predictive mechanisms. Corporations can better prepare for demand, predict issues, increase grid stability, and save resources when they have the appropriate information.

  4. AI-powered Consumption (Smart Power)

    The Energy Information Administration (EIA) of the US report states that nearly half of U.S. energy users have smart electrical meters installed at their houses. These meters provide data about personal energy consumption, and that data can be used to make better forecasts about upcoming energy usage levels, thus helping customers regulate their consumption better.

    According to the EIA, intelligent power consumption through AI-driven intelligent home solutions through companies like Google and Amazon are being adopted at a large scale. These smart devices communicate with other household devices to identify energy waste. For instance, consumers can figure out the cheapest time to charge their electronic vehicles or run their air conditioners, thus helping the energy industry optimize their energy storage.

    Applications of Artificial Intelligence

  5. Logistics Network Optimizations 

    The supply chain in a particular energy sector, like the oil & gas industry, involves complex operations involving decision-making for environmental recycling companies and gas producers/distributors for LPG. These organizations must make tough decisions like purchase, purchase price, petroleum refining operations, gantry operations, and transportation. In this business, AI helps coordinate the operations team with the warehouse to ensure the availability of crucial products like refill tanks.

    In a nutshell, AI. Aids Energy & utility companies in predicting the market price of electricity/gas. AI can support proper planning and implementation in these LPG businesses, optimal route selection, etc. It helps refiners predict the optimal demand blending, evaluate the prices, and improvise customer relationships, usually in the downstream oil & gas business. Also, AI. Helps in proper planning and scheduling, enabling optimization of the energy price, creating an intelligent warehouse, maintaining inventories, handling shipping operations for replacing assets, risk hedging, and improvising the delivery times & thus reducing the overall expenses.

    Artificial Intelligence logistics

    The above graph shows the Past and projected U.S. energy consumption in quadrillions. It shows that by 2040, world energy consumption is expected to increase by 15.3%. The Data was retrieved from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Conclusion 

With the global energy industry not resistant to the COVID-19 pandemic, renewed focus has been placed on upping economic efficiency. To that end, market players use machine learning to improve predictive capabilities, increase transparency in energy trading, integrate renewable energy sources, manage intelligent grids and storage, and give life to unmanned drones. AI in numerous domains proves its value to the energy transition, causing measurable improvements in renewable energy forecasting, grid operations and optimization, distributed energy assets, demand-side management, and materials discovery and innovation.

AI holds far more significant potential to accelerate the global energy transition. While AI Applications in the energy sector have been innovative and promising, adoption remains limited. AI gives an incredible opportunity to accelerate the growth towards the highly efficient, zero-emission, and interconnected energy system we need for a better tomorrow.

As time passes, We will only realize more incredible AI. Adoption, innovation, and collaboration across the energy industries. This is one of the reasons why the World Economic Forum has released a report called Harnessing AI to Accelerate the Energy Transition, which defines and catalyzes the needed actions.

For those looking to change the energy industry’s future, the interface between AI and energy is a beautiful place to start. Technological innovation has drastically changed how we assume these two industries and their integration. Their synergy may transform the world like we never comprehended, and they are primed for innovative thinkers to make their mark.

digital transformation in banking
Banking, Blog

Top Technology Trends Transforming the BFSI Industry

digital transformation in banking

Introduction

A well-operating financial system drives a well-functioning economy. Technology is one of the most powerful driving forces for the current economy and the modern economic systems. Banks have grown from being a safe place for keeping valuables to a one-stop solution for all transactional operations. Today, the (BFSI) Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance industries operate on smart devices, making online transactions the new norm. As we move more in-depth into the digital age, we can anticipate seeing technology-driven, more groundbreaking, innovative digital transformations in banking with strategic solutions.

The COVID-19 pandemic was an arm-twisting of unprecedented proportions for banks, placing their technology architecture, strategy, and workforces under tremendous pressure. For most, the crisis was a sobering affair that dispelled all illusions about how far they had progressed regarding digital transformations and cloud migrations. According to research, 62% of customers consider more comfortable and more secured banking one of the best technological developments of the decade, and 56% of the banks are now considering digital disruption as the crux of their strategy.

Yet, silver linings could be found in how fast banks could acclimate to a new reality amidst many pandemic challenges. Most of them quickly rebuilt their business with a digital core that supports a more adaptable workforce and a more useful agile operating model with ever-changing customer needs, making the future of banking more secure.

Technological advancements and changing customer expectations continually drive the financial service industry to innovate and accustom. Technology is aiding the financial sector in filling the gap between conventional and revolutionary banking systems by improving customer experience, operational efficiency, and data security. The digital approach is applied to payments, retail banking, finance management, insurance, commercial banking, and finances management. 

Banks with a clear-sighted perspective persist in expediting their digital transformations, reimagining their people and data to their architectures and ecosystems. New banking competition is dawning where architecture is given the topmost priority, and leaders are also deciding on the ingenuity of their technology choices.

The popularity of FINTECH has made banks exclusively automate their processes; New banks are launching NEO banks that are launched digitally without Physical branches. Numerous Technology Trends have emerged and have sped their way into every bank’s system.

Want to know what the Top 5 Future technology trends are shaping the future of digital banking? Have a look:

Artificial Intelligence (AI):

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is now developing as a part of the business environment and is reinventing the whole BFSI ecosystem by enhancing automation and dynamic systems. AI supports decision-making, enhances customer service with virtual assistants, and improves operational efficiency. Also, advanced machine learning algorithms help process data quickly, thus helping in compliance management, profile credit risk, and detecting fraud even before it happens. AI and machine learning saves time by personalizing client experience, crunching reams of data,  and increasing revenue growth. A recent study states that machines will perform 10 to 25% of all banking functions across all banks in the next few years. A large group of consumers assume that the gap-fill in the financial market is by applying self-serving technology platforms that help customers conduct all their banking operations remotely. A study by McKinsey states that the value of AI and ML could be worth as much as USD 1 trillion annually.

Blockchain Technology:

Blockchain, an emerging technology trend, is already creating transformation ripples in the BFSI sector. According to the global bank Santander, Blockchain-based systems will enable banks to save US$15-20 billion by 2022. 

The Reserve Bank of India(RBI) believes Blockchain technology holds enormous potential for disrupting the banking and financial markets. Organizations across the globe are already establishing blockchain in a wide variety of banking and investment applications, like solving challenges met by investment banks to assist customers in making safer payment transactions. According to a report by MarketWatch, the investment of blockchain in the (BFSI) banking and financial sector will reach $17.47 billion by the end of 2025.

digital transformation in banking

RPA:

With Robotic Process Automation (RPA), the banking industry demands intelligent automation to drive efficiency, remove repetitions, and improve customer satisfaction by providing fast and efficient services. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) mimics human actions to extract more data and navigate digital systems, and this level of automation is invaluable to the BFSI sector as it automates workflow, reduces errors, and speeds up digital transformation. RPA has diverse functions and can streamline customer service and operations across various industries from end to end. A report by KPMG states that RPM could preserve financial associations as much as 75% in cost savings.

CyberSecurity:

Cyber threats can emerge from anywhere at any time; the most dangerous part about cyber risks is their ever-changing and evolving nature. 69% of CEOs from various financial institutions reported in a PwC survey that they are highly concerned about cyber threats. Also, 65% of the companies said that they  adopted cloud-based security measures in their organization as  

Cyber risks demand a proactive approach as part of BFSI enterprises. They need first to assess, evaluate, and understand the present security status of their organization and identify their cyber-risk appetite. They should develop a cybersecurity roadmap that will help them gauge the vulnerable areas and seal those gaps early. This is why organizations should hire and train cybersecurity teams to mitigate threats and vulnerabilities effectively in advance. An IBM report estimated that the cost of a data breach in the financial sector was US$5.85 million in 2020.

Big Data Analytics:

Big data in finance has led to meaningful technological innovations. Financial firms can deliver personalized customer recommendations, create more efficient processes to strengthen security, provide better customer service, and drive competitive advantage. They can identify revenue opportunities by analyzing customers’ spending patterns, financial situations, credit information, and social media activities.  

A recent study states that 71% of banking and financial firms utilize big data analytics to gain a competitive advantage over their peers. Big Data improves trust equity by assuring cyber security measures and managing voluminous and unstructured data. Predictive analytics enable institutions to deliver customers personalized insights into their investments.

Conclusion

Banking and other financial sectors have been more advanced in their digital transformation processes than any other industry, and future technology trends transforming the banking industry into a business offer plenty of advantages to satisfy customer needs. Forward-thinking banks are embracing these thrilling new technologies to decrease costs, become efficient, and boost customer satisfaction, assuring a place in the digital future. Thus, adopting and enforcing these technology trends will accelerate the digital transformation in the banking industry.

XR Business Apps
App Marketing, Augmented Reality, Blog

Extended Reality Business Apps for Industries in 2022

XR Business Apps

Table of contents

Extended Reality Business Applications for Industries in 2022

Introduction to Extended Reality

Extended Reality(XR) is an umbrella phrase that consists of all real and virtual environments generated by computer technology. It comprises Augmented Reality(AR), Virtual Reality(VR) and Mixed Reality(MR).  All immersive technologies grow the reality we experience by creating a fully immersive experience by blending the real and virtual world.

Research reveals that more than 60% of respondents believe XR will become mainstream in the coming five years. The Extended Reality(XR) market will grow from 33 billion dollars to 125.2 billion dollars by 2026. Visualize yourself walking on the moon or diving into the deep sea, all while you are sitting on your couch at home. Just as we spoke, Extended Reality(XR) makes all of this possible.

To know more about Extended Reality, we need to understand the three components of Extended Reality, which are Augmented Reality(AR), Virtual Reality(VR) and Mixed Reality(MR).

Let us have a look at the three remarkable components;

Three Remarkable Components of Extended Reality(XR)

Augmented Reality(AR)

As the word suggests, Augmented Reality(AR) takes the existing reality and overlays it with different types of information, thus enhancing the digital experience. It can be classified as marker-based, marker-less and location-based.

To experience AR, we have to use glasses or screens using tablets or smartphones.

Examples of AR are ‘Pokemon Go’ games where digital structures are created and placed in the real world and a Snapchat filter that lets you put on the hat or glasses.

Virtual Reality(VR)

In contrast to Augmented Reality(AR), Virtual Reality(VR) fully immerses users in a simulated digital environment. Individuals must put on a VR headset or a head-mounted display to get a 360 -degree picture of a synthetic world. This artificial world tricks the brain into believing they are swimming under the ocean or walking on the moon, letting them step into a new world created by the Virtual Reality developers. The entertainment and gaming industries were the early adopters of this technology; however, companies in engineering, Digital Healthcare, construction, and more are researching their way of implementing it.

An example of Virtual Reality use case implementation is Volvo. Volvo introduced VolvoReality that lets customers experience a complete VR test drive with their phone.

Mixed Reality(MR)

Mixed Reality(MR) is the latest immersive technology, often referred to as hybrid reality. In mixed Reality, real and digital-world objects co-exist and interact in real-time. It needs more processing power than VR or AR to avoid speed problems and latency. We can experience Mixed Reality with an MR headset or glasses.

5 Powerful Real Time Business Applications

Healthcare

Imagine exploring human anatomy virtually. What if there is a life-size 3D model right in front of you where you can walk and interact with it- that’s what XR can do- it creates a virtual experience. Extended Reality in Healthcare is paving the way for new opportunities for medical practitioners. Extended Reality solutions own the potential to assist surgeons in the operation theatre. To understand it in detail, let us have a lookup into the best 3 uses of XR in Health Care :

1)Building surgery simulator to train medical practitioners 

Immersive technologies help doctors conduct surgery simulations. We can create a surgery simulator with the support of extended Reality. We can also use it for training medical practitioners.

2)Helps Surgeons Prepare before actual surgeries 

With the help of Extended Reality(XR), we can generate 3D replicas based on patient scans that let surgeons study and collaborate with the team on surgical tactics. An XR immersive headset is used to showcase the draw, cut measure tools, and develop an actual operation procedure.

3)Better Diagnosis of Health Conditions  

What if doctors can scan a patient’s body and point out health problems straight away? As fascinating as it sounds, it is now possible with an XR application. Immersive technologies are brought together with the help of 3D models to help detect patients’ illnesses.

By 2025, Augmented Reality(AR) and Virtual Reality(VR) market value is forecasted to be $10.82 billion.

Retail

One of the most thrilling areas where XR is set to make a mark is retail/eCommerce. The line is clouding between online and in-store shopping experiences; like today, more brands are experimenting with Virtual Reality(VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to build innovative customer experiences.

But why should we imagine a virtual shopping experience when you see it in person in the store? All of this was true until customers couldn’t go to the store anymore due to pandemic restrictions.

In January 2020, 8% of retailers stated they were interested in AR/VR. Six months later, that number increased to 20%. Today, retailers see the opportunity of Extended Reality in a different light.

Top 3 Examples of VR and AR bring used in the Retail Sector

1)Nike– Nike used Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in their physical stores so that Customers can scan items like clothes or shoes to view information.

2) IKEA developed The Place App, which lets shoppers use augmented Reality with their smartphone camera to position furniture items in their houses to visualize exactly how the thing will look.

3) BMW’s augmented reality experiences let car shoppers head into showrooms and customize cars with various colours or styles using their phones or tablets. They can even put on virtual reality goggles and experience driving cars to understand their options better.

Gaming and Entertainment

Gaming

With its share in the XR market being 34%, the video games industry has been XR’s early and foremost user. Many game designers are now creating interactive 3D experiences, using different devices and frameworks to build Extended Reality games that let them feel like they are playing in a real environment. Like being in a Star Wars environment where Darth Vader is present? Vader Immortal is a VR game that gives an immersive experience of how it truly feels to be in the Star Wars world. You can play this VR game using the Oculus Quest headset.

Research emphasizes that the VR market for gaming was worth $5.12 billion by 2019 alone. Further forecasts state that the numbers will grow at a CAGR of 31.8% by 2027, by which the VR market size is about to reach a net of $45.20 billion.

Entertainment

Virtual Reality plays a dominant part in the entertainment industry. It focuses mainly on producing and improving video-based immersive media like TV shows, movies and numerous other forms of video content. Virtual rides are designed for Theme parks which are usually difficult to simulate in Reality.Beyond this, Virtual Reality is also being executed in art galleries and museums to make it interactive with a contextual background and to provide a rich user experience. Other AR entertainment mobile apps like PokemonGo have transformed the real world with a simulated overlay attracting and engaging audiences.

While Virtual Reality(VR) is liable for gathering a lot of traction due to its highly immersive characteristics, Augmented Reality(AR) is now becoming a game-changer. It is a lucrative immersive technology that will benefit the Gaming and Entertainment sector in the long run. AR technology is used daily in smartphones via camera filters on social media platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook. The filter utilizes computer vision technology that relies on an active shape model categorizing features and a human face-recognizing feature; filters are applied accordingly through the camera. The VR and AR media entertainment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 48.8% from the year 2018 to 2023.

Marketing

Extended Reality(XR) empowers marketers to give their customers a shot before purchasing the product. It lets customers immerse themselves into that environment and convince them to discover it. For instance, Cathay Pacific used a 360 video to help clients understand the brand.; This raised customer consciousness by 29% and brand favorability by 25%.

From a marketing point of view, let us understand what XR brings to the table?

  • Product Showcasing With XR, consumers can experience new developments in new ways like never before. Imagine trying out a shoe or a smartwatch before you even pay for it! That’s the pulse that the marketing strategists want to target.
  • Interactive campaigns XR is all about building an immersive experience for the consumer. Thanks to digital transformation, the calibre of hardware available to the average customer have improved vastly. Every smartphone is capable of processing AR tech, which empowers marketing strategists.

Education & Training

XR holds great potential to change how we get education and training. XR will help get trained and educated in low-risk, virtual environments to master the skills fast and without spending a significant amount. Employees can efficiently focus on the task in a simulated environment built using XR. Remote learning is another vital aspect of XR that will solve the problem of distance barriers.

Benefits most from using XR solutions in Education & Training

    •  NASA is vigorously experimenting with XR to train its repair and maintenance workers in the space station.
    • The electrical technicians at Boeing aeroplanes use AR-headsets to check maintenance checklists, which are reducing their inspection time by 25%.
    • The US Marines have used an “Augmented Immersive Team Trainer” system that trains soldiers virtually by adding different fire effects and enemies that has enhanced their performance in real-world scenarios.

Real time Examples

  • Walmart training with AR

Walmart uses Oculus VR headsets to augment employee training. Positioning staff through training with VR boosts the confidence and retention of the team, enhancing test scores by 10 and 15%.

  • Coca Cola AR

The Coca Cola Augmented Reality(AR) app allows users to point their camera phone at any Coca Cola can and make one of the twelve stories come to life.

  • Ford’s

Ford’s new technology, HoloLens, lets designers wear wireless headsets and see digital designs and parts as already incorporated into the physical vehicle.

  • Jaguar Vehicle VR

Jaguar generated 3D models of every car part, letting them picture every element of the vehicle and fit it all together. The model will simulate the performance of components and systems.

Extended Reality Challenges 

  • Screen Door Effect- This visual effect allows fine spaces between pixels to be seen due to a large image scale. However, this can be solved with advances in both lenses and screens.
  • Motion to photon latency– It is a delay between the user’s head movement and the change in the display of the XR device imitating its movement. This can cause motion sickness. Researchers have designed a freedom model for user movement prediction, lowering positional rendering error.
  • Safety Concerns– If the app uses an Extended Reality controller, then the user may clash with other objects provoking harm at both ends. Moreover, the user may trip over an obstacle while moving around, causing them to lose their balance. Intel has put together guidelines on creating a safe, comfortable, and immersive VR experience.

Conclusion

Extended Reality (XR) is creating breakthroughs in finding unique ways to interact with clients. XR solutions are augmenting and increasing the productivity of many industries, including real estate, retail & eCommerce, education & training, entertainment, and more. We may see a world where virtual interaction prevails over real-life experiences in a more distant future.

Agritech ecosystem
Agriculture, Blog

Creating an Effective Agritech Ecosystem: The Role of Each Stakeholder

Agritech ecosystem

Table of contents

Every year, nearly one-third of the food produced for human consumption gets lost or wasted. The huge losses, especially at a time when meeting global food demand is a challenge amidst resource scarcity and climate change, are unaffordable. This is why global leaders and agriculture stakeholders are leveraging digital farming with emerging technologies. But it is a known fact that the agriculture industry is a complex and vast ecosystem and it will take a lot more than independent and fragmented digital solutions to achieve food security and sustainability goals on a global scale.

In our earlier article titled Transforming the Agriculture Value Chain with Digital Technologies, we mentioned that independently digital technologies can improve efficiency and profitability but to create value, a collective approach is needed. In this article, we’ll talk about how different stakeholders can collectively work to create value that can result in a truly sustainable agriculture ecosystem.

Role of Each Stakeholder in Creating an Effective Agritech Ecosystem

Government: 

One of the key stakeholders in the agriculture sector across different countries, governments are responsible for framing policies that define the state of agriculture. Through better policies and reforms, governments can encourage as well as push practices and technologies that can transform the future of agriculture. To create more effective policies and reforms,  Governments need to work closely with agribusinesses, startups, research institutions, and the farming community to identify underfunded segments with growth potential and implement policies that propel their growth. Another area which governments should be looking at is R&D. This will encourage research that can lead to more breakthroughs in agriculture.

Agribusinesses: 

Agribusinesses, primarily the established ones, play an important role in the value that can be derived from the overall value chain. They include companies related to cultivating and processing agricultural produce. They may or may not be involved directly in food production. Deere & Company, for example, doesn’t grow food but most farmers in the US own a tractor or other equipment owned by them. These agribusinesses need to work on two important things. First, improve focus on data security. With rising concerns around data security, they need to keep the process of data collection. Second, to gain farmer trust, particularly in the case of data that comes directly from farmers, they need to maintain transparency, and clearly communicate why it is collected and how it will be used. This will give them access to critical information that can be used to improve the processes and eventually contribute to sector improvements.

Startups: 

Startups have been at the forefront of leveraging technology and innovation in business models to overcome critical challenges and improve the agriculture sector globally. As startups continue to unleash the power of innovation and technology, they face challenges of their own. This is where encouragement of venture capitalists, policies by governments can help them overcome the initial impedance so that they continue to innovate across the value chain by continuously identifying challenges and opportunities and finding relevant digital solutions for them. At the same time, startups would need to be sensitive to disruptions in the traditional model and its impact on growers and on the environment.

Growers: 

In a lot of countries, digital adoption may face resistance from grower’s side for reasons such as lack of digital literacy, cost of adopting digital technologies, or lack of clarity on how digital solutions can bring better results i.e. projected results or ROI. This is where close collaboration is needed between growers, governments, cooperatives, and agribusinesses to improve their digital literacy and address other challenges that cause resistance to adoption. They should be provided with opportunities to partner with food and ag companies directly which in turn will encourage both growers and their partners to create collective value and improve product quality. We see that especially when it comes to demand-supply planning or meeting consumer expectations of food transparency, stakeholders can’t meet certain goals without the contribution of growers- digitally and otherwise.

Tech companies: 

Digitization in the agriculture industry is slightly more complex than in other industries. It goes beyond just adding new technology. It often translates into a cultural shift and typically brings about fundamental changes to how a business operates. However, given the scale and the complexity of the changes involved, the task of envisioning a clear roadmap that aligns with overall business objectives is often riddled with complexity and uncertainty. This is where the need for a strategic innovation partner comes in. Agribusinesses that partner with specialized digital technology and innovation service providers at a fundamental, strategic level typically see benefits in terms of rapid technology adoption as well as a highly flexible approach to innovation that adapts to changing market conditions by refining the strategy and orchestrating a mix of digital technologies to deliver optimum innovation.

Research Institutions: 

The research area will be greatly impacted by digital adoption and vice-versa. While research institutions continue to do phenomenal work, they need to have a closer connection with the industry and the various stakeholders across the value chain in order to deliver greater impact. Modern technologies combined with the exponential increase in computing capacities, availability of large datasets, and strong modeling platforms are leading to the creation of new niche areas in research. At the same time, the research is helping improve the quality of crops, create more resilient seeds, devise efficient farming practices, help farmers get more value out of their crops, analyze complexities, and project scenarios.

To get agritech right, thoughtful collaboration is key.

In our report titled “The State of Digital Agriculture 2021”, we highlighted how the lack of a collaborative approach is preventing stakeholders from adopting digital technologies and agritech effectively. Undoubtedly, agritech is gaining pace globally as many stakeholders are venturing into the domain in some form or the other. The efforts are however scattered and independent. The lack of a collaborative approach between key stakeholders often leads to dilution of effective impact if we see from the view of overall benefit to the agriculture sector. Independent initiatives, especially within the value chain, often need an integrated approach that covers the needs of related stakeholders and fits within the ecosystem without significant disruption.

Every stakeholder, therefore, must be open to collaborating with the right partners in relevant domains and experiment with taking help from a variety of sources. They should adopt a more experimental, open approach and cast wide to adopt key technologies effectively. In that sense, the old templates for who to collaborate with no longer apply, and organizations need to have a more open outlook towards bringing in expert help.

Digital healthcare
Blog, Digital Transformation & Innovation, Healthcare

Digital Transformation of Healthcare in India

Digital healthcare

Table of contents

Introduction:

To state that the global pandemic has helped digital adoption across industries since 2020 would be an understatement. It has actually made business leaders scramble to adopt digital solutions or risk obsolescence. A development which allowed for no advance planning and improvisation as millions of professionals worldwide were suddenly forced to manage and sustain their business remotely could only be combated by emerging technology, and those who were still on the fence, weighing the pros and cons were faced with an evolve or die situation.

Of all the industries which had to make the transition, the case for healthcare was the most critical. Apart from patients diagnosed with COVID-19, medical facilities had to make all their healthcare and counseling services accessible online, or lose customers. Where before 2020 only 7% of care seekers used to consult with facilities virtually, the percentage jumped to 32% by the end of 2020 per an Accenture research in the USA. In India, a similar research by Katar and Medix global has revealed that 90% of the people who were surveyed are willing to use digital health apps and teleconsultations for their healthcare needs. These were people who were staunch believers of in-person visits to facilities before.

Industry Overview:

In terms of size, the Indian healthcare industry is one of its largest, generating major revenues and employment for the nation. The industry has an international appeal as quality healthcare is available at a fraction of the costs of other Asian and Western countries. It is projected to become a INR 8.6 trillion (USD 133.44 billion) market by the end of 2022. At times when in-person visits have become risky, such growth can only be fueled by digital adoption. The Katar and Medix global survey also asked the respondents on must-have features for digital healthcare apps, to which, the top 3 features requested were the ability to consult with doctors/nurses over video calls, assessing blood test results, and the provision to upload, share and manage medical records.

Digital healthcare solutions

Top Digital Transformation Trends Impacting the Healthcare Industry: 

Here are the top digital transformation trends driving adoption and giving us a glimpse of the future of healthcare in India

  1. Electronic Medical Records: In recent times, the Government of India has introduced a bunch of new regulations and standards such as amendments to the Clinical Establishment Act for ensuring data compliance, the National Digital Health blueprint, and personal data protection bill. These initiatives have ensured that digital copies of a patient’s medical history, investigation findings, medication, diagnosis, and treatment are now easily accessible online or through authorized mobile applications. This has resulted in quicker information sharing among multiple healthcare facilities, transparent and fast communication between facilities and patients, and the ability to carry important documents with ease.
  2. Diagnostic Information Management Solutions: Cloud technology has facilitated collaboration between diagnostic centers as well as center-to-customer communication by alerting customers on their mobile devices when their reports are ready, appointments are due, and follow-up procedures are to be done. This has resulted in improved customer experiences as they are no longer kept guessing when their reports would arrive and when they should be going for the next round of checkups. If the process involves collaboration between multiple centers, the reports can be readily accessed by all of them instead of customers having to carry them around.

    At [x]cube LABS, we have helped one of the largest pathology labs in India, Dr. Lal Pathlabs, to achieve amazing customer satisfaction by deploying an intelligent digital interface that provided accurate timelines of when reports would be delivered, the ability to see how long each test would take and a comprehensive report at the end. The solution also helped the organization to keep customers updated in case there are delays caused by unforeseen situations. Overall, the communication between the company and customers reached a new level of promptness and transparency which greatly improved retention and loyalty.

  3. Application of AI in Imaging: Radiologists are increasingly taking advantage of the advanced algorithms brought about by AI-based imaging technology. In combination with PACS (picture archiving and communication system), which transforms the paper workflow of radiology images into digital, AI is enabling practitioners and facilities to evolve to a more efficient style of working. Additionally, images analyzed by AI have high accuracy, and even small abnormalities do not go unnoticed, helping radiologists diagnose health conditions early and avoid complications.
  4. Telemedicine: This facility exploded in popularity soon after the lockdowns imposed by the pandemic came into effect and continues to be a game changer for various health institutions. Not only has the ability to remotely consult specialists been beneficial to existing customers, but it has also enabled new customers to connect with specialists of their choice irrespective of location. Hence, facilities which used to have only a local clientele are now able to reach out to a much wider audience. Aggregators have also brought various specialists from multiple locations under one platform, giving patients a wider choice than they had pre-pandemic where only local health facilities were accessible to them.
  5. Remote Monitoring of Patients: Tools that enable medical facilities and professionals to remotely supervise their patients, have their readings sent to them from time to time, and facilitate two-way communication have also become popular. More companies are entering the market with upgraded offerings as such tools solve two major problems. They enable professionals to monitor and diagnose patients remotely at a time when getting beds in hospitals could be difficult, and they also improve patient experience as they don’t have to visit the facilities in person for every checkup.
  6. Online Training: Prior to the pandemic and the rise in popularity of digital solutions, medical training would mostly be imparted in person and aspirants who did not have training facilities near their location would have to travel to faraway cities and towns. Today, more and more institutes are starting online programs to help those interested in a career in the healthcare industry to learn the trade from anywhere in India. With e-learning platforms and simulators equipped with haptic feedback to make learning more immersive, several relevant training modules have now become more conveniently accessible to a wider range of the population, giving facilities more options to hire quality talent, expand and provide better care.

Conclusion:

Digital healthcare in India, like most other countries, has received a much needed shot in the arm and is maturing by the day. Organizations within the industry as well as enterprises enabling the industry to transition are thinking of novel ideas to further improve patient care, coordination between employees and facilities, and create smarter medical devices that make diagnosis faster and more accurate. The continuing transformation will ensure that more patients from Tier-II and Tier-III cities in India get the same high quality consultation and attention as those in big cities, and a stronger workforce will be built thanks to remote learning. Overall, we can be optimistic about the future of one of the largest industries of the nation and look forward to new and exciting developments in 2022 and beyond.

CISA’s Mobile Device Cybersecurity
Blog, Enterprise Mobility

CISA’s Mobile Device Cybersecurity Checklist for Organizations

CISA’s Mobile Device Cybersecurity

Table of contents

With increasing digitization, the number of threats faced by enterprises and consumers is also increasing, and they are becoming more grave and malicious every day. Last year, we shared 8 best practices you must adopt for your enterprise to strengthen cybersecurity. As the attacks advanced, so did the security measures, and a few days back we shared how you can use artificial intelligence in cybersecurity to secure your enterprise. The process of securing your enterprise against cyberattacks isn’t a one-time thing. You need to continuously keep yourself updated in terms of the threats out there as well as your own capabilities to defend yourself.

This is an area where even governments around the world are putting in efforts, in collaboration with cyber security organizations to protect enterprises and consumers globally.

To that end, just last week, The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) created an Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) system checklist for enterprises to mitigate vulnerabilities and to help them secure themselves against cyber threats.

CISA’s Mobile Device Cybersecurity Checklist for Organizations

The guide lists some easy-to-implement steps that organizations can take across six areas: security-focused device management, user authentication, mobile app security, network protection, device protection as well as protecting enterprise systems from the device. Let’s take a look at what CISA recommended in their checklist:

Security-focused device management

  • Enterprises should be careful about supply chain risks while selecting devices and enable automatic updates on each device so that the latest updates are applied to each device instantly
  • Enterprises should make sure that only trusted devices are allowed. To qualify as a “trusted device,” a device must:
    • Have the latest platform patch level
    • Be configured as per enterprise standards of EMM.
    • Not be rooted or jailbroken.
    • Undergo continuous monitoring

If any device doesn’t meet the above criteria, it is considered an untrusted device and should be denied access to any of the enterprise resources.

Strong Authentication

  • Use strong passwords and PINS for devices and the passwords should be at least six digits.
  • Enable the use of biometric authentication such as fingerprint or face recognition
  • Two-factor authentication should be enabled for accessing enterprise networks

App Security

  • Use only curated app stores and disable all third-party app stores. Third-party app stores can spread malware
  • Enterprise apps should be isolated from personal apps. This should be done to avoid exfiltration between enterprise and personal apps. To isolate enterprise data, security container technology should be used
  • Minimize personal identifiable information that is stored in apps. This will make it difficult for attackers to steal data.
  • By default, disable sensitive permissions when you install new apps.
  • Restrict the backing up of enterprise data by disabling OS/app synchronization

Network Communication

  • Disable the network radios such as Bluetooth, Wifi, GPs, etc that are not in use or required. Each network connection is a potential entry point for attackers that can be used to steal data or control a device.
  • Attackers can use user certificates to hide malware and facilitate attacks. To avoid this, user certificated should be disabled and considered untrustworthy
  • Secure your communication apps and protocols because often, network attacks allow attackers to tamper with data in transit, resulting in data leak, credentials thrift, user tracing, and more

Device Protection

  • Implement a Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) system. The system can protect devices from malicious software that can pose a threat to apps and operating systems and can also access sensitive data. MTD systems are also capable of detecting improper configurations.
  • Use only trusted chargers and cables with the device. Malware can also be introduced through chargers or PCs and enable attackers to take control of the device.
  • Configure organization devices to function in a USB restricted mode that disables data transfer between devices
  • Configure the settings to automatically delete a device’s data if there have been a certain number of incorrect login attempts

Protecting Enterprise Systems from Device

Disable mobile device connectivity to critical enterprise systems as mobile devices can carry malware and create problems from business-critical applications, servers, and systems

Discourage users to establish connectivity between mobile devices and critical systems using USB or wireless mode

About CISA

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), USA, leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the country’s cyber and physical infrastructure. They connect their stakeholders in industry and government to each other and to resources, analysis, and tools to help them build their own cyber, communications, and physical security and resilience, in turn helping to ensure a secure and resilient infrastructure for the American people. They are the Operational Lead for Federal Cybersecurity or the Federal “dot gov” as well as the National Coordinator for Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience.

Source: CISA

Conclusion

As enterprises worldwide undergo digital transformation and adopt digital solutions, the need for securing those digital efforts becomes as critical as the solution itself. Without securing your digital ecosystem, you not only put your enterprise at risk but also your customers by making their data and privacy vulnerable to attacks and easily accessible by attackers. Other than the need for obvious security, another reason why you should level up your cybersecurity measures is that customers today not only look into customer experience as a parameter to choose you but also the level of privacy and data security that you offer. As an enterprise leader, if you’re thinking about how you can begin or fortify your existing cybersecurity measures, feel free to get in touch with us.

Defining Digital Transformation in 2022
Blog, Digital Transformation & Innovation

10 Factors Defining Digital Transformation in 2022

Defining Digital Transformation in 2022

Table of contents

Given the circumstances, many organizations undecided about digital transformation had to take the step in 2020, and the trend continued in 2021. The transformation was fast-paced due to COVID-19, a black swan event. But as we step into 2022, what does digital transformation mean for these as well as new businesses? What will continue and what new things can we expect? In this article, we talk about the factors that will play an important role in defining digital transformation across industries in the years to come.

Factors defining digital transformation in 2022

We already talked about Top 10 Technology Innovations we can Expect in 2022. But as we know, digital transformation strategy and execution is not only about technology but also about people (industry and organization culture) and processes. And of course, other factors that are associated with intermediary industries and markets also play a role in overall digital transformation. These include macro trends, global policies, new innovations and breakthroughs, speculations around upcoming trends and their impact on work in progress, and a lot more. Let’s take a look at some of the prominent ones that are likely to have the biggest impact.

  1. Deployment of more complex 5G millimeter waves on the way

    5G adoption in 2021 remained on track, as expected, but the deployment happened in the sub-6GHz bands. We can now expect the deployment and growth of more complex 5G millimeter waves. The low band 5G frequencies often feel only slightly faster than LTE despite being about twice as fast. This made some consumers unsatisfied as they felt that the promised speeds were not delivered. 5G millimeter bands will change that. mmWave has an edge over the existing 5G as it increases network capacity and efficiency, offers low latency, and delivers faster speed. So we can fairly say that even the trend of 5G is moving towards advancement. The deployment of mmWave will encourage consumers to not just adopt faster networks but also the devices that support them. A lot of companies such as Qualcomm, Samsung, Ericsson, and more are already developing network infrastructure that supports 5G mmWave.

  2. Semiconductors to see more investments

    As the 2020 pandemic drove a tech explosion, we saw more adoption of technologies that enabled businesses to function without disruption, effective communication, and productivity tools, and many more. This unseen growth or unprecedented demand for enabling technologies also caused a semiconductor chip shortage, as was evident from 2021 where we saw delays in production times of almost everything from a cell phone to automobiles. This is why we now see large investments in semiconductors to avoid similar situations in the future. Companies like Intel and Samsung, for example, have announced huge investments to build fabrication plants around the globe. While the impact of these investments may not be felt immediately, we can still expect these investments and developments to play a crucial role gradually down the line.

  3. Hybrid advancements to accommodate the mega shift in the future of work

    As expected, and as can be seen globally, remote work continues even at places where the pandemic has nearly waned. Companies across every industry are offering permanent, flexible, and hybrid working modes. And because such modes of working come with their own set of challenges such as ineffective communication and collaboration, we can expect more advancements in the tech space that cater to these challenges. These advancements apply to both hardware and software and enable superior quality collaboration for people connecting from different places. Microsoft Teams, Zoho One platform are examples of it. We can expect more in this space in terms of better collaboration and innovation.

  4. More scrutiny and regulations for tech giants

    Tech giants can expect intense scrutiny from governments across the world. The infamous monopolistic practices of major companies such as Facebook, Google, Amazon, etc, have created a lot of noise and raised an alarm among the users as well as legislators and governments. However, to expect a major antitrust reform is highly unlikely, at least in the near future. Even then, the need for regulating how these companies collect data and use it to have more control over users’ lives is clearly visible and we can see some progress gradually over the next decade, if not sooner. For others venturing into similar businesses, they can learn and establish themselves as brands that protect consumer data and offer better privacy to avoid similar challenges.

  5. Privacy first approach for the next wave of tech regulation

    Customers today are used to enhanced customer experiences. At the same time, with so much buzz around privacy concerns, they have become cautious about the data they volunteer to share with different apps. Taking note of that, some companies position themselves as  “privacy companies.” Apple is a fine example of that. Now the challenges right in the face of businesses around the world are how do they strengthen their customer experience strategy and stay ahead of the competition with limited data or with thoughtful data practices. They also need to be transparent about how they collect data, how they use it, and how they will respond in case of data breaches, and how capable they are when it comes to cybersecurity. Simply put, they need to look for new sources of data and learn about how they will use it while maintaining the same level of customer experience.

  6. The synergy of hybrid and multi-cloud

    A major enabler, cloud technology, is set for an upgrade to how it is deployed. Hybrid cloud is the next big thing. Hybrid cloud refers to a cloud environment that is made up of on-premises infrastructure, private cloud services, and a public cloud, with orchestration among the various platforms. By leveraging an optimal mix of public and private clouds, companies aim to resolve challenges around computing and storage, including security and data access. Google Anthos, VMware, AWS Outposts, IBM Red Hat are some of the offerings by leading companies to help enterprises benefit from the power of hybrid cloud. 2022 will also witness the adoption of the multi-cloud model where companies will be seen using more than one public cloud to solve their business challenges, and it is going to get mainstream eventually due to the necessity of implementing it.

  7. Everything-as-a-Service

    We have witnessed how capital expenditures for software and infrastructures have been replaced with the OpEx model where technologies are procured based on a consumption basis. Whether it is enterprises or consumers in general, users want to pay for services as they use them and when they want them. With the growing popularity of this much more convenient and affordable model (in most cases), everything-as-a-service can be expected to reach its peak in 2022. SaaS companies for enterprises will benefit greatly from this shift. This shift has and will continue to enable digital transformation at a faster pace as enterprises can conveniently adopt new technologies without worrying about high one-time capital costs or the investment getting drowned in the event of the technology becoming obsolete.

  8. The Metaverse

    In our earlier blog post titled Facebook’s Transition to Meta: Metaverse, Controversies, and the Future, we mentioned how the metaverse will let you share immersive experiences with other people even when you can’t be together and the company is really optimistic about its growth in the near future. While one thing is for sure that we won’t be living in an envisioned metaverse anytime soon, we can still expect other companies to follow the trend. Microsoft, for example, recently launched “Mesh for Teams,” a metaverse-like product that allows people to create powerful 3D avatars of themselves for meetings where they don’t want to be on camera. We can expect more metaverse-positioning by companies over the decade, starting this year.

  9. NFTs

    This year we saw the rise of NFTs. We witnessed a lot of investments as well as noteworthy developments in the NFT space- the sale of NFT for $69 million by digital artist Beeple, to say the least. While from a distance we may say that NFT applications have been limited to, or the ones that caught mainstream media’s attention were limited to arts and game tokens, in the coming year, we’ll see more NFT use cases in business, given its desirable characteristics such as tradeability, security, indivisibility, and standardization, in addition to scarcity.

  10. Elevated need for talent

    To catch up with the advancements in technologies and new innovations as well as to reap the maximum benefits by getting an early advantage, tech companies and digitally transforming enterprises in general need talent that can help them quickly. The time spent in setting up in-house teams and training can often cost them opportunities. This is something we have seen in the past and we will continue to see in the future as well. The coming year will drive the need for skilled talent and would require companies to attract, nurture and retain talent in smart ways. This is where enterprises can leverage the services of companies like [x]cube LABS that help organizations that do not have teams to help them build digital solutions quickly. Instead of recruiting and training teams, you can work with a partner like [x]cube LABS and achieve results sooner.

2022- Another year of more technical advancements

Undoubtedly, the momentum given by the pandemic to digital adoption will go a long way. Companies that were earlier resistant to adoption for various reasons were compelled to take the step to stay in business. As of today and in the near future, digital transformation isn’t just about survival but also about staying profitable, efficient, relevant, competitive, and customer-centric. While on one side we see enterprises transforming rapidly, we also see innovation and new technologies being explored with equal pace. We are yet to see how each of the factors impacts the overall digital transformation landscape in general and how successful the emerging and new technologies will be. But one thing is certain, it will be more than 2020 and 2021.