Due to urbanization, which involves a complex set of economic, demographic, social, cultural, technological, and environmental processes, governments are developing smart cities to address some of the challenges unique to urban areas. This development occurs through the transmission of data using wireless technology and the cloud.

Smart cities are powered by technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Each technology works together to collect and contextualize massive amounts of data that can be used to improve the components and systems running within a city. Smart cities may also utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology for certain systems. This article will focus primarily on IoT, the vast network of connected physical devices that’s making cities smart. 

What Are Smart Cities?

Smart cities collect and analyze mass quantities of data from a wide variety of industries and across domains like healthcare and transportation. To accomplish this, a complex network of interconnected sensors, devices, and software must be built, maintained, and secured. 

The ultimate goal of a smart city is to facilitate a more sustainable and efficient environment for its residents. Smart cities use digital technology to improve the safety and quality of the lives of citizens as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of businesses. Some of the benefits of smart citizens include citizen engagement, optimized operations through real-time data intelligence, and urban planning informed by data and technology. Smart cities utilize technology to provide solutions to the following areas: 

  • Parking
  • Public Wi-Fi
  • Safety security
  • Transportation
  • Urban mobility
  • Waste management

How Do Smart Cities Work?

Smart technology allows cities to become more sustainable and efficient. Smart cities are powered by IoT sensors, which deliver large amounts of real-time data. The cities then use this data to improve infrastructure, (Read more...)