Shaping the future of customer experience (CX) through the lens of innovative embedded engineering

In today's world, we are surrounded by various smart devices that have made our lives much more convenient and connected. These devices have been made possible through various technological advancements that have paved the way for countless use cases. From smartphones to smart cars and smart appliances to smart homes, the possibilities are endless. Recent years have welcomed a brand-new world for consumer electronics, with the domain reaching new and previously unheard-of proportions, powered by unmatched tech advancements, especially in environment-friendly and smart automotive and healthcare technology. Consumer electronics is playing a vital role in making daily life easier and more efficient, as well as transforming how people and systems function. India is carving a niche in this rapidly expanding ecosystem.

Emergence and growth of embedded systems 

Embedded systems play a crucial role in empowering the technology we use daily. These systems have expanded their scope beyond conventional industrial and manufacturing applications. They are currently integrated into diverse industries, encompassing consumer electronics, healthcare, and automotive, making them interactive and intelligent. Reports suggest the embedded system market is expected to reach $159.44 billion by 2030, owing to the rising need for automation, connected smart devices, and IoT usage. The Internet of Everything (IoE) presents a remarkable prospect for organizations. It encompasses an interconnected network involving individuals, objects, data, and operations. This intricate web aims to elevate intelligence and enhance understanding within this connected realm.

Consequently, it leads to strategic insights, task automation, and heightened operational efficiency. Similarly, incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into embedded systems presents another compelling avenue. Embedded Artificial Intelligence (EAI) harnesses the expanding computational power of devices by enabling the transmission of inference outcomes to cloud-based AI algorithms. This approach offers various benefits, including reduced data transmission expenses, fortified data security, and the ability to perform real-time inference and decision-making. These advancements can refine decision-making processes, automate tasks, and deliver more personalized user experiences.

Software-defined-vehicles (SDVs): An opportunity driving the future 

The electrification of vehicles has gained momentum due to premiumization trends, technology advancements, pent-up demand, and sustainability initiatives. Modern cars today have transformed into electronic powerhouses, and this systematic electrification of vehicles has led to the rise of software-defined vehicles or SDVs. The popularity of these SDVs borders on a tech-empowered futuristic vision wherein vehicles have metamorphosed into complex devices intending to make life convenient and more connected. Most functionalities within modern automobiles are now managed by code. This technological shift within the automotive sector marks a significant turning point, presenting strategic prospects to simplify hardware and software complexities, facilitate vertical integration, and unlock fresh revenue streams for organizations across various domains.

Similarly, the agriculture sector is reaping rewards from automated tractors equipped with AI, GPS guidance, sensors, and stereo cameras. These autonomous vehicles operate independently, undertaking vital field tasks while offering users smartphone-enabled managerial capabilities. The automotive industry's future is swiftly evolving around digital ecosystems and self-driving vehicles. Investing in technology to adapt to these evolving trends and create innovative products will aid automakers in transforming customer experiences.

The ascent of health-tech

Currently, health tech is addressing the gaps in India’s healthcare system, closing the digital divide, and solving problems at almost every step of the consumer healthcare journey. Fortunately, we are no strangers to ground-breaking products in the health tech space, and with technologies like IoE (Internet of Everything)/EAI (Embedded Artificial Intelligence) and 5G and Wi-Fi 7 networks in place, we are set to witness more innovative products that can collect and analyze data, integrate with processes, provide insight, automate tasks, and thereby, improve the efficiency of the healthcare system. We are currently witnessing some incredible technological advancements in the healthcare sector. For example, smartphone apps utilize test results to provide users with dietary recommendations, recipes, and workout suggestions. Additionally, apps based on transdermal optical imaging (TOI) enable contactless measurements of vital signs through a simple selfie.  

From smartphones to homes: Application of safe tech everywhere 

The world is changing at a fast pace, and businesses must keep up with the latest trends to stay relevant. Technology has become an essential aspect of every business, and India is leading the way in creating innovative use cases that cater to the ever-evolving global ecosystem. As technology evolves, organizations should be mindful of the significant dynamics at play. By prioritizing novelty, relevance, customer experience, sustainability, and safety, businesses can ensure that they stay ahead of the game. It is also crucial to ensure that the systems are secure to protect sensitive data and prevent cyber-attacks.

As embedded systems become increasingly interconnected, it is crucial to prioritize data privacy and security. While device-level security measures have traditionally been the norm, it is now necessary to extend privacy and security protocols across multiple layers, especially among IoE endpoints. Additionally, incorporating green software engineering into embedded systems is imperative to align with the demand for eco-friendly design, taking into consideration factors like energy consumption and sustainability. By achieving these goals, we can pave the way for amplified digital advancement in the coming years, benefiting both industries and humanity.

The article has been written by Narasimham RV, Global Head - Integrated Engineering Services, Tech Mahindra