Qualcomm makes IoT gadgets smarter with new chips: 5bn non-smartphone connected devices by 2018

15.05.2015
Speaking on the future of the Internet of Everything (IoE), Qualcomm has announced it expects there to be 5bn non-handset connected devices predicted in 2018, seeing the area as a 'massive opportunity' which it expects to both drive and lead. It also want to bring app support to appliances with new embedded chipsets. See Digital Home reviews.

The chips, detailed below, might not sound like the most exciting thing but will lead to much smarter gadgets around the home, from coffee makers and toasters to light bulbs, speakers and large appliances like fridges. The news comes just days after Samsung unveiled its Artik hardware-software modules for IoT devices.

Qualcomm has already made $1bn in revenue in the IoE (or Internet of Things IoT) area and expects it to make up more than 10 percent of its revenue for 2015. The industry could be worth a whopping $7.1Tn by 2020 according to some statistics.

The firm has shipped more than 120 million smart solution which are already in devices around your home including GoPro cameras and Xbox consoles. It expects the IoE to 'incrementally creep up on us' in areas such as control, automation and infotainment.

As part of its IoE day, Qualcomm has announced two new chips for use in IoE products. The Atheros QCA401x is the firm's new flagship Wi-Fi solution and includes micro controller, processing, Wi-Fi and some storage for apps (800KB). It also supports Qualcomm's AllJoyn and is aimed at any device from small to large.

The QCA4531 is a new Linux-based high performance with Wi-Fi (2x2) aimed at smart home hubs and automotive. It had the ability to act as both an 16-client access point or as a network client itself.

"A big part of Qualcomm Atheros' strategy for the IoE is pairing the right mix of connectivity and computing capabilities from our deep technology portfolios to address the varying needs of the IoE," said Joseph Bousaba, senior director of product management at Qualcomm Atheros.

On top of those chips, the DragonBoard 410x (a bit like a Raspberry Pi), which has an integrated Qualcomm Snapdragon 410, will cost just $75 and start shipping summer 2015.

With these, and other solutions, Qualcomm expects to drive it IoE industry across a range of range of areas including wearable, healthcare, automotive, smart home and smart cities. IoE requires a wide range of technologies combined such as Wi-Fi, processing, Bluetooth, NFC and LTE which Qualcomm believes it can delivery batter than anyone else.

If you're thinking the IoE isn't here just yet, Qualcomm has more than 20 wearable products shipping in over 30 countries with over 20 designs in development, more than 40 connected car programs from over 15 OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and more than 20 active smart city engagements across key areas. It's also number one globally in home networking solutions.

(www.pcadvisor.co.uk)

Chris Martin

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