The 7 Key IoT Trends That Will Shape 2017

Every new year sparks curiosity about what the next 12 months will bring—especially in a world where the Internet of Things is reshaping business models and creating groundbreaking products and services.

With a few weeks already into 2017, we’re excited to share our top seven IoT predictions that we expect to shape the industry this year.

1. 4G IoT Takes Center Stage, 5G Buzzes on the Horizon

While many carriers are phasing out 2G and 3G, 4G LTE has moved from a differentiator to a baseline for IoT connectivity. As networks mature, experts predict that 5G will soon dominate discussions, with analysts and research firms outlining its potential to unlock new levels of speed, latency, and capacity for IoT applications.

2. The Rise of Narrowband IoT

On the other side of the spectrum, Narrowband IoT (NB‑IoT) is set to gain traction for low‑data‑rate, long‑range applications. Industries such as utilities, structural monitoring, and agriculture stand to benefit from NB‑IoT’s extended coverage and low cost, making 2017 a pivotal year for its adoption.

3. eSIM Maturity — How Carriers Will Respond

Embedded SIMs (eSIMs) are often called the “Holy Grail” of IoT connectivity. The technology already exists; the challenge is commercializing it. If carriers embrace open infrastructure, they can transition from mere network operators to enablers of global, multi‑network connectivity for IoT devices.

4. IoT‑Managed Tablets Take the Lead

Tablets have long dominated consumer markets, but their B2B adoption is accelerating. For deskless workers in retail, hospitality, field services, and healthcare, IoT‑managed tablets offer lightweight, task‑focused performance and robust connectivity beyond Wi‑Fi, bridging the gap between vision and execution.

5. IoT Security Comes to the Forefront

Every wired or wireless connection creates an entry point for cyber‑attackers. In 2017, both consumer and enterprise segments will see increased investment in security solutions, standards, and protocols to harden IoT devices and networks against evolving threats.

6. Industry Consolidation Continues

As the IoT expands into countless verticals, the influx of new wireless players will spur consolidation. Smaller firms that deliver edge value and innovation are likely to be acquired by the leading giants, streamlining the ecosystem.

7. Plug‑and‑Play IoT Gains Momentum

Fragmentation has long plagued the IoT vendor landscape. In 2017, all‑in‑one partners that accelerate time‑to‑market, provide expert support, and deliver interoperable, globally connected solutions will become the preferred choice for businesses launching IoT deployments.

This article was produced in partnership with KORE.

The author is CEO of KORE Wireless Group Inc. and brings over 20 years of experience in networking and telecommunications across Europe, North America, and Asia. He has deep expertise in wireless, enterprise, and fixed‑line services, serves on advisory boards for multiple tech companies in the U.S. and Canada, and was Chairman of the IoT M2M Council in 2015.