The news makes sense. Putting aside Google's game-changing acquisition of Nest, which took competition in the IoT space to a new level, Apple was already moving in this direction. With iBeacon technology, Apple has already begun leveraging the iPhone as a device that interacts with its environment as opposed to a digital window that only comes alive when you're using it. In CarPlay, Apple already has a platform for extending apps to other devices. And the rumored iWatch will combine both concepts in a device that's even more personal than a smartphone.
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Still, smart appliances aren't new (Samsung and others have been
messing around with connected fridges for well over a decade), so why
should Apple count on any more success than existing players in the
space?For a few reasons. Broadly, Apple's brand is one of the strongest in the world, and the technology that powers Internet-connected devices has matured: broadband is commonplace and connections have better security and reliability. But there are also some specific things that Apple can bring to the table:
1. User experience
If you've ever bought a "smart" home appliance, you may have regretted it once you tried setting it up, a process that can often be tedious (Nest is a notable exception). If you're lucky enough to get your device up and running, you're then at the mercy of the sometimes shaky software skills and resources of the manufacturer in order to get it to work properly."Most people who buy these products chuck them after a few months," says Gilad Meiri, CEO of Neura, which makes Internet of Things software. "And even if there is value, the user experience is just sh-t. What
Apple is known for is user experience design, so I think they're going to lead and give other players something to aspire to." Apple keeps its ecosystems fairly closed, but that typically translates into a consistent user experience — something the IoT industry desperately needs.Apple is known for is user experience design, so I think they're going to lead and give other players something to aspire to
The Financial Times report notes that Apple will green-light products for the program in a manner similar to how it designates "Made for iPhone" products now. That will instantly create a hurdle manufacturers need to clear while ensuring that customers get a consistent experience from any product with the label.
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