How is the Internet of Things (IoT) useful for common people? More than just a wealthy man's space

The internet has been around for more than two decades, yet there are some of us who still struggle with a simple WhatsApp message. The purpose of a phone is to call and receive calls. To communicate, in short. For the newer smartphones that are released by tech giants every twelve months, they might as well collect dust on the shelves for some people. Why do I need such a large screen or a smartwatch?

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Yes, you may know a parent, grandparent or even a friend who remains loyal to the analog era. Flip phones and buttons are what tickles them. They prefer to remain in the dark when it comes to social media, pop culture and all the new edgier stuff that technology has introduced. After all, their lives are going great without all the complications of an iPhone cord that does not last, and the Netflix subscription that they do not use.

For these people, how will you convince them that a smart home, not just a smartphone; is beneficial to their lifestyle?

Internet of things or IoT can be described as the network of connected objects that are able to collect and exchange data usefully. The internet is the backbone for this activity and the smart devices which will be used. Considering this information, as much as internet penetration has succeeded in many European countries and the world over, there are some people who still shun it. Claiming it poses a distraction in daily activities and is a threat to human connection and activity.

Essentially, the internet has made us lazy nosy people, who would prefer to stalk friends and strangers on Instagram and Facebook, then make conversation with a long-lost cousin. However, let us really look at the benefits that IoT proposes.

There are driverless cars already in testing, smart homes that brew your coffee and close the curtains before you reach home. There is even the car that directs your movement on your way to work and back home to avoid traffic. It is very tempting to imagine that one day, the internet will be running our lives and we will enjoy it. The idea of saying something and it is immediately done without question is heady to those who love being in control.

However, as magical as a car that parks itself and fridge that sends a grocery list to your iPhone sounds, how many common people will actually be able to afford it?

These smart projects and implements come with a hefty price tag. Electric cars are expensive enough, how about a driverless one? While the society may appreciate an internet utopia in the future, it is arguable whether it will be widely used or left to the wealthy to pick and choose between smart homes and smart cars. Riding the bus is certainly more pocket-friendly than buying an expensive automated car.

Today smartphones are becoming more and more expensive with every new flagship being released. The old one which is still barely two years old is functioning pretty well, so why should I sacrifice paying for a family vacation and instead get a new phone? It sounds like the internet of things may be impractical for the common man when it comes to the big toys (cars, homes, and robots), but it may use in the home appliances section.

A smart thermostat and smart bulbs may actually save money in the long run. The August smart lock will keep a new pensioner safe while he sleeps in his country home. The smart security system offers a middle-income family peace of mind while living in the city. These appliances work for the common man, the middle-income earner, and the pensioner. While the internet of things has a wide variety of good and products to behold, only a small portion may actually be practical and appealing at the same time for the family down the street.