5 M2M Trends to Watch Out For

1 M2M Developers Kick it into High Gear: Similar to how software developers have built gigantic ecosystems of mobile applications for businesses, we are seeing the tip of the iceberg when it comes to emerging developments for connecting machines. In fact, AT&T opened its first M2M foundry, specifically as the home of cutting-edge development around machine-to-machine solutions and connected devices.

2 Big Enterprises Everywhere Embrace M2M: We have already heard about a few major companies like GE making strong commitments to enabling connectivity and connecting their machines and manufactured assets. This kind of approach is sending a ripple effect in terms of larger and midsize manufacturers adopting M2M solutions.

3 The Need for Speed and Security Top the List: While companies deploying M2M solutions are looking for a return on their investment, they are balancing that against the needs to protect their data. The growing need for these solutions to deliver results is no secret and as a result, we can expect the focus to shift squarely to security. We are also seeing a large number of 4G and LTE devices beginning to support M2M applications.

4 M2M Apps on the Rise: Based on recent trends in the M2M space, we anticipate an increase not only in application usage, but also in the number of applications per deployment. For example, a heavy equipment operator that currently tracks the location of machines can now take it a step further and log equipment usage data through existing or new applications.

5 Stats Change the Game for Decision-makers: Most current M2M applications are designed to collect data that businesses can analyze to help eventually make a difference to their bottom line. As M2M solutions mature, companies will start to examine data at multiple places along the way which can help managers make more informed decisions.