It describes the network of actual physical objects, or “things,” that have sensors, software, and other technologies built in them with the aim of establishing connections and sharing information with other systems and gadgets via the internet.

One of the earliest contexts in which it was discussed was in relation to supply chain management. The ability to tag items with RFID chips to track their location throughout the supply chain was one of the first practical applications of IoT. This innovation greatly improved inventory management and efficiency.

Since then, IoT has expanded into various sectors, including smart homes, health care, agriculture, and industrial automation, transforming how we interact with the physical world through technology. It’s a concept that has evolved with the advancements in technology and is now a significant part of the tech landscape.