IoT Transforms Business Models: From Devices to Data-Driven Services

Jeremy Cowan of IoT Now emphasizes that the IoT revolution is more than a patchwork of connected gadgets—it is reshaping entire business models.

Enterprises deploying IoT are moving from supplying machinery to collecting and analyzing data, turning once‑isolated devices into valuable information sources.

Tyre manufacturer Michelin exemplifies this shift: its fleet program now offers subscription‑based mobility insights and lifecycle management, moving beyond simple rubber sales.

During a recent conversation with Ayla Networks, I learned about their Phone‑as‑a‑Gateway (PaaG) solution, which connects low‑value devices—think power tools, water fountains, or even electric toothbrushes—to the Ayla Cloud via a mobile phone, bypassing costly cellular links and reaching remote locations.

“Ayla isn’t just selling hardware or software; we’re providing data‑management expertise,” says Josh Pederson, Ayla’s Director of Product. The company now guides customers through transformation, turning data into actionable business insight.

Testing the IoT Weather

I reflected on Vodafone’s latest IoT Barometer 2017/18. Vodafone has invested five years in tracking the IoT landscape, offering valuable context for skeptics who dismiss IoT as hype.

Key highlights include:

• Adoption has surged from 12% in 2013 to 29% in 2017.
• Transport & logistics grew from 19% to 27%; retail from 20% to 26%.
• 84% of adopters say their IoT usage has expanded in the past year.
• 12% of adopters now operate 10,000+ connected devices; the 50,000+ segment has doubled from 3% to 6%.
• Benefits extend beyond cost reduction: 55% prioritize efficiency, 46% have integrated IoT with core systems like ERP.

So, Who Owns the Data? No, Seriously

In discussions with BICS, a Belgian carrier that recently acquired California‑based TeleSign, CEO Daniel Kurgan emphasized that data ownership belongs to the customer. BICS views this as a gateway to evolve from connectivity provider to digital services leader, extending TeleSign’s security solutions to its European and Asian customers.

Transports of Delight

If you work in transport, visit our new vertical site, www.IoTNowTransport.com. It focuses on IoT across automotive, fleet management, rail, shipping, and cargo. Share your feedback on Twitter @jcIoTnow.

The author, Jeremy Cowan, is Editorial Director of IoT Now, IoT Now Transport, IoT Global Network, and VanillaPlus.com.