The Internet of Things (IoT)

What is the Internet of Things?

This term refers to anything that's connected to the Internet. The fast advancement of technology is making it more common to see it implemented in all of our surroundings. For instance, in our homes, there's many house appliances that are connected to the network. There are modern fridges that are able to connect to our phones and computers. Some even have their own screens that can display images, reminders or even our shopping list.

IoT and Home Appliances

Among other home appliances that implement fall under the category of IoT are:

• Virtual assistants. They are an amazingly useful tool that can help us with small tasks, like setting reminders, creating notes, making quick searches on the Internet, answering questions, and even controlling other devices or home appliances in our homes.
• Televisions. Like many phones and computers, smart TVs are able to connect to the Internet and use the most popular streaming applications and services, like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Youtube, Spotify, and even videogames, for instance, the Play Station Store.
• Coffee machines. Some of them can be programmed to make coffee at a determined hour and surprisingly wish you a good day. 
• Washing machines. Modern ones are able to be programmed and wash loads at specific times.
• Air conditioner. Nowadays, most of them have temperature sensors that allow them to optimize their functioning. And they can be additionally programmed to turn on and off when necessary.
• Lights. It sounds simple, but some can be programmed or have light sensors that turn them off during the daytime and turn them on during nighttime.

Finally, I'd like to point out that the implementation of this group of devices is also related to the concept of "Smart Homes", which as you can imagine refers to homes equipped with devices and appliances that can be programmed, or controlled remotely.

Smart Cars

Aside from that, IoT has been able to reach our vehicles. Modern cars are usually able to connect to our devices, allowing us to listen to music, make, and receive calls, or even ask for directions to a destination. Some cars have location functionalities that come in handy if they are stolen or lost. Furthermore, and probably the most relevant advancement lately is the improvement of autopilot systems.

Wearables

Another interesting topic when talking about IoT is wearable devices, some examples are:

• Smartwatches. These are the most popular wearables, they can connect to your phone, and allow you to send messages, receive and make calls, and other tasks.
• Implantables. One of the most common uses for this one is in pets. They usually come in the form of a small chip and can store important information about the pet and its owner.
• Head-Mounted. Among them, we can mention VR and AR headsets, and smart glasses.

Future Perfect Tense Sentences

1. Hopefully, our dog will have returned home before night thanks to the microchip.
2. I will have finished my homework before my friends come to play my new VR video game.
3. The air conditioner will have cooled the room by the time we arrive home.
4. The coffee machine will have made you a coffee by the time you wake up.
5. The system will have turned off the lights before sunrise.