Top Internet of Things (IoT) Development Platforms

Internet of Things is an emerging technology that connects billions of smart devices and sensors to internet with an efficient, secure and convenient way. In order to develop IoT ecosystem, it requires a development environment called IoT development platform where we design and manage solutions for each applications. Here are the top Internet of Things (IoT) development platforms.

What is IoT development platform?

Internet of Things will enable companies to create new data driven services, cloud data processing, and predictive analytics. IoT development platform is like an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) which provides a powerful toolkit for IoT development and  complete end to end solution to develop, deploy and manage IoT applications.

An IoT platform connects devices, smart sensors and IoT gateways to the cloud. Since IoT operates in many areas, IoT platform should be able to handle huge amount of data from devices, sensors, websites, and applications efficiently. It has a real-time analytics option to monitor network activities.

1. Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Amazon Web Services IoT is a managed cloud platform designed for Internet of Things applications, it allows unlimited number of devices and sensors to interact with cloud applications securely. Moreover, AWS supports all the popular software development kits (SDKs) like Embedded C, JavaScript, Python, Java and iOs for applications development.

AWS offers super charged dedicated servers for any complex applications and it has the capability to handle millions of devices and huge data rate.

2. Microsoft Azure IoT

Microsoft offers Asure IoT Suite and Asure IoT Hub for developers to create applications, manage devices remotely and analyze data in real-time. It has the flexibility to operate with multiple operating systems and platforms.

Azure cloud platform uses Microsoft Visual Studio SDK which is familiar to millions of developers. In addition, integration with other cloud solutions and web applications make Azure on the top IoT platform list.

3. Google Cloud IoT

Google Cloud IoT platform is another powerful managed and integrated service which offers complete solution for development and management of millions of connected devices across the globe. Sophisticated analytics tool lets companies to get an insight in real-time manner.

End-to-end security, integrated services with cloud, advanced data analytics, business process optimization and fully managed infrastructure are the core features of Google Cloud IoT platform.

4. IBM – Watson IoT Platform

Watson IoT platform from IBM is one the leaders in IoT development system which offers total solution for application development, management of devices, cloud database and real-time data analytics. IBM claims to have developed strong analytical solution for cognitive analytics in Internet of Things.

IBM has been investing heavily on IoT ecosystem, Watson offers cost effective solutions for supply chain management and payment processing. It helps to completely manage IoT solutions and make business decision based on the strong real-time analytics data.

5. ThingWorx IoT Platform

ThingWorx also an emerging IoT platform offers solutions with cost effective, reduced risk and reduced development time. It has flexible solution for deployment with complete applications design, run-time and intelligence environment.

ThingWorx claims faster development, integration and deployment for multiple IoT solutions. It gives flexibility and scalability for future developments and upgrades.

6. Predix IoT Platform

Predix is one of the new IoT platforms from Apple and GE which primarily designed for industrial IoT and provides tools for software development. It allows customers and business partners to develop and manage their IoT devices and solutions.

Predictive maintenance is one the most important factor in industrial operation. Predix can efficiently analyze data, intelligently predicts and inform the control centre to take necessary steps to avoid any critical events.

7. Cisco IoT Platform

Cisco IoT platform provides simple and secure solutions for IoT with network connectivity, data analytics, application enablement, management and automation.  It promises a secure platform to connect millions of devices from different geographical area effectively.

It can support industrial automation, power management, smart city and transportation system.

8. Samsung ARTIK

Samsung has recently launched its development solution for Internet of Things applications. It provides a wide range of modules to connect with IoT products from simple sensors to complex hubs.

Miniaturized solution for multiple applications is one of the top features of ARTIK modules.

9. HP Enterprise Universal IoT Platform

With HPE’s universal IoT platform, customers can connect to a strong system with scalability, modularity and versatility. It allows customers to monetize from the massive data collected from millions of devices and smart sensors across different areas of applications.

Secure monetization, simultaneous management, accurate data analytics, built-in application designer and marketplace and cross-vertical operations are the key feature of HPE Universal IoT platform.

Other IoT platforms

Raspberry Pi 2, Intel’s Galileo, Apple’s HomeKit, Qualcomm’s IoT development kit, Analog device’s Connect are other IoT development platforms for connected devices.

Conclusion

According to predictions, billions of new smart devices and sensors will be connected to internet in coming years. It requires an efficient, secure and cost effective platform to develop, deploy and manage wide variety of applications for industries, smart cities, home automation, connected cars, medicine & healthcare, smart farming, logistics and supply chain management etc… Technology advancements in wireless transmission, data encryption and network protocol will ensure a secure and smart IoT network for future.