In this episode of IoT Insider, Editor Kristian McCann sits down with Stephen Statler, Chief Marketing Officer at Wiliot, to discuss the groundbreaking potential of Ambient IoT technology, an innovation that promises to bridge the digital divide, enabling real-time visibility of practically everything – from food and clothing to medicine containers.
Ambient IoT is largely achieved through the use of minuscule, battery-less computers that harness energy from radio waves to operate. These devices, no larger than a postage stamp, communicate via Bluetooth, transmitting data such as temperature and ensuring real-time visibility and interaction with the physical world.
Statler explained, “Our technology is about closing the digital divide between the awesome power of the Internet and generative AI, and every single thing that surrounds us.” He highlighted the disruptive nature of Wiliot’s technology, emphasising its potential to dramatically improve efficiency and environmental sustainability across various industries.
Ambient IoT, as defined by the Third Generation Partnership Project, is not a new concept but is now gaining traction thanks to advancements like Wiliot’s. Statler discussed the evolution beyond Bluetooth to include cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, aiming for universal accessibility and affordability. “The chip that powers this costs five and a half cents… It’s about making connectivity available for cents,” Statler remarked, underscoring the low-cost, high-impact approach of ambient IoT.
The applications of Wiliot’s technology are vast and varied. In the short term, it’s enhancing retail and healthcare supply chains by improving inventory accuracy and monitoring the temperature and handling of sensitive products like COVID vaccines. However, Statler sees far-reaching implications: “Ambient IoT will allow for a complete reengineering of supply chains… It’s one of our most potent weapons for fighting climate change.”
Despite the challenges of integrating new technologies into existing systems and industries, Statler is optimistic about the future. Wiliot’s approach involves working closely with major companies while also preparing for broader accessibility through partnerships and standards development. “We’re determined to be first to market with pre-standard and standards-compliant versions,” he stated, highlighting the importance of interoperability and the vast potential of ambient IoT to transform our world.
To dive deeper into Stephen Statler’s vision for the future of ambient IoT and how it can transform the IoT ecosphere as a whole, tune into the full podcast episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and at the link below.
Ambient IoT and how standardisation can accelerate it – IoT Unplugged
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