8 Best IoT Projects Ideas to Help You Get Started

 

The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the fastest-growing technology trends today, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. In fact, IDC predicts that by 2020 there will be 20.4 billion IoT devices in use throughout the world, which will collectively generate over $2 trillion in annual revenue. As more and more businesses begin to take advantage of this technology trend, the need for talent will only continue to grow as well.

 

1) How To Control Lights And Temperature From Anywhere

1. Control lights with your phone, tablet, or computer 2. Create rules using geofencing and time of day triggers 3. Use IFTTT (If This Then That) for unique recipes How To Build A Temperature Monitor And Alert System: 1. Add sensors to rooms 2. Set up alerts based on sensor readings 3. Use IFTTT (If This Then That) for unique recipes How To Track Your Movements From Anywhere: 1. Add GPS tracking devices to all family vehicles 2. Setup smart rules using location-based triggers 3. Use IFTTT (If This Then That) for unique recipes How To Monitor Home From Anywhere: 1. Install video cameras in main living areas 2.

 

2) The Alert That Warns Of Storms And Overdue Pills

We could all use a bit of help now and then, especially when it comes to medicine. Wouldn’t it be great if we had a medication alert system that tracked our daily doses, alerted us when we forgot one, and even ordered refills before we ran out? Well, researchers at Duke University have developed just such a system. If you love gadgets but don’t have time for DIY projects or coding from scratch, check out an ecosystem like IFTTT (If This Then That) that allows you to connect your favorite apps, devices, and web services together. IFTTT also has some pre-made recipes you can use with popular smart home appliances like Phillips Hue lightbulbs and Belkin Wemo switches. Who needs Alexa for weather reports?

 

3) What To Do When The Garage Door Is Opened

Connect your garage door opener with a Wi-Fi-enabled outlet so you can turn on lights and appliances when you open your garage door. This is a simple integration, but it makes life easier if you’re trying to hide in your house, or if you want to make sure nothing is visible from outside. If you want to control multiple devices, consider using one of several smart outlets that allow for multiple internet-connected devices. The WeMo Switch+ is one option that works with Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands, plus Apple HomeKit integration. It costs $49.99 on Amazon and lets users control up to three electrical outlets remotely or by voice command.

 

4) Don’t Worry If You Are In A Low Mobile Network Area

Most of us today own a smartphone and rely on it for nearly everything, but no one likes being unable to get a signal. Whether we need to check our email or call 911, having access to mobile data is incredibly important. While you’re waiting for 5G technology to become available (which will allow your phone or tablet to access LTE data even if there is no network connection), you can use project Fi from Google: It uses Wi-Fi instead of mobile networks, which means it always works—no matter where you are. All you have to do is pay $20 per month and buy a new SIM card; then, with just one number, your phone will connect automatically when you land in another country—even if that country has different wireless frequencies.

 

5) Getting Notified As Soon As The Door Is Unlocked

Many of us worry about leaving our house unoccupied, especially when it's cold outside. That's why DIY hackers have created a notification system so you get notified as soon as someone unlocks your door from their smartphone. Using a Raspberry Pi, an Adafruit NFC shield, and a few other components, in just 10 minutes you can create your own project that'll let you know instantly when someone enters or leaves your home. Keep in mind that it's still a good idea to lock your doors even if you're at home – not everyone has such good intentions.

 

6) Keep Track Of Your Workouts While On Vacation

All too often, we put exercise on hold while we're on vacation. And when you're relaxing, you can really feel it in your muscles! Luckily, there are plenty of apps and devices that can make working out easy even when you're away from home. Put these 8 simple fitness gadgets in your suitcase so that you'll have no excuse for skipping a workout.

 

7) Monitor Your TV Viewing Habits Without Annoying Commercial Breaks

If you don’t have cable, it can be hard to figure out what’s on when and for how long. Fortunately, it is easy (and inexpensive) to get a DVR that records television programming without commercial breaks. Simply install a digital video recorder (DVR) like TiVo or Tablo and enjoy your favorite shows without interruptions. One popular solution is Insteon + TiVo, an affordable home monitoring system that gives you peace of mind. With one central hub, you can monitor your connected devices from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or computer – no contracts required!

 

8) Have Fun With This Toy Drive For Kids Who Are Hospitalized

This sounds like a great way to have fun with kids who are facing difficult times. By donating toys, you’re also providing joy that might otherwise be lacking in their lives—and spreading some holiday cheer. There are lots of places where you can purchase used toys and donate them, but don’t limit yourself! Check out thrift stores, garage sales, and consignment shops for extra special deals on toys your little ones will love. And if all else fails, go shopping at Walmart, because it's hard to find fault with a $1 Batman action figure! Here are our top picks for the 8 best IoT project ideas.