Healthcare Magazine January 2016 | Page 7

SENSORS , mobile devices and related technologies are presenting new opportunities and risks for businesses in all sectors . Collectively known as the Internet of Things ( IoT ), this broad terms covers all non-computer and non-phone Internet connected devices .
Many in the business community view IoT devices as interesting consumer gadgets , like the Fitbit or the Apple Watch . However , IoT devices are coming into their own for business and industrial use , and in the process are reinventing industries such as healthcare .
These trends suggest that the first wave of IoT technology has arrived in the form of consumer adoption . Here are some other healthcare trends to watch out for in 2016 :
Wearables As several million Americans have already begun carrying IoT devices in their daily life , it ’ s an exciting trend with much potential for firms that produce IoT products and services .
The future of health gadgets seems pretty stable , with 20 percent of Americans owning at least one wearable device . Will wireless
7