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5 Companies Leading the Internet of Things

Revolution

Microsoft

Cloud infrastructure will play a major role in connecting Internet of Things devices, and Microsoft's Azure platform has the company at the forefront of cloud IoT services.

Image source: Microsoft

Microsoft

Research firm Gartner recently rated Microsoft as a leader in cloud enterprise services, infrastructure, and storage—and IoT device connectivity looks set to drive business in each of these segments.

Image source: Microsoft

Ambarella

• Ambarella designs imaging and video semiconductors for a wide range of internet-connected cameras, providing chips for products from GoPro, Comcast, and others.

Image source: Ambarella

Ambarella

• The company's chips are already a key component in industry-leading action and security cameras, and Ambarella is also delivering solutions in aerial drones, smart cars, and other emerging technologies.

Image source: Ambarella

Alphabet

Alphabet's Google Cloud Platform provides tools for connecting IoT devices, data collection, and analysis.

Image source: Google

Alphabet

• Alphabet also offers smart home products and services through its Nest subsidiary, and the company is in place to benefit from the data boom likely to accompany smart home and IoT adoption.

Image source: Google

Comcast

Comcast now offers smart home services and hardware in addition to its cable and Internet package. The company is positioning IoT offerings as a core part of its Xfinity subscription platform.

Image source: Comcast

Comcast

Comcast is expanding its network of WiFi hotspots with IoT technologies in mind. A growing number of connected devices is pushing the company to improve the performance of its public and in-home Internet networks.

Image source: Comcast

Sierra Wireless

Sierra Wireless is a pure play Internet of Things company specializing in providing a platform for IoT-enabled technologies to interface. The company has been buying up assets to help stay at the forefront of inter-device communication.

Image source: Sierra Wireless

Sierra Wireless

Sierra’s stock is down more than 60% in 2015, but the company could be a good long-term investment if the Internet of Things revolution takes shape.

Image source: Sierra Wireless

Is IoT really the next big thing?

l With so much hype and such lofty expectations for the Internet of Things, it’s not unreasonable to take a somewhat cautious outlook on the development of the technology and ecosystem.

l l On the other hand, with such a wide range of tech and consumer

appliances companies devoting substantial resources to making inter-device connectivity a reality, there’s a good chance the Internet of Things really will be revolutionary. If that happens, the companies in leadership positions, and their investors, are likely to see strong results.

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