on the Technology Side: M2M
by Laurie Lamberth
Machine-to-Machine (M2M) wireless technology isn’t something that we talk about in interactive and digital media circles. M2M, deftly described in a new research report published April 3 by IDC/Manufacturing Insights http://www.manufacturing-insights.com/MI/getdoc.jsp?containerId=MI210473, enables remote machines to communicate wirelessly, in real-time, to a host application without human intervention. M2M can to transport large or small information payloads. This enables everything from: remote payment processing; monitoring a factory’s status using sensor-based information; and delivering streaming video and games to cars.
The report’s co-author, Laurie Lamberth, foresees interesting opportunities for content distribution as M2M technology continues take hold outside of the factory. Here are Laurie’s ideas on how M2M can apply to digital media:
· Wireless vending machines and kiosks. Wireless vending machines save the cost and hassle to pull dedicated communication lines for credit-card payment processing. Once the machine is wireless, it can become a distribution point for rich media content. Imagine watching a video of the latest hot tracks while selecting your snack, then buying and downloading the song to your smartphone while at the vending machine. Imagine an internet hot spot powered by a wireless vending machine or kiosk to browse and buy content online while you’re taking your break. Onboard video monitors will be used to promote music, movies, or other content.
· In-vehicle media delivery. Expect to see back-seat video and other media tools becoming standard equipment in cars, buses, and other public transport vehicles. All of these in-vehicle wireless solutions are powered by M2M, and it’s not too early to begin to discover how you move your content into cars, buses, and trains.
· Video billboards and ads. M2M modems power those billboards you see from the highway showing current mortgage rates or other timely advertising information. Expect to see wireless airport posters, movie posters, and other “screens” popping up that can be programmed and have their content delivered remotely using M2M wireless broadband modems.
The new report, authored by Laurie and IDC/Manufacturing Insights’ Joe Barkai, describes the current state of M2M in plain terms, describes common applications (mostly industrial), forecasts important M2M trends, and offers concrete suggestions for customers and service providers. It’s a terrific introduction to this technology and provides a great food for thought.
IDC/Manufacturing Insights is sponsoring a webcast to review the report on April 30th, sign up here. Laurie has also offered to discuss M2M with TechGenii’s subscribers. If you’d like to discuss M2M, and how it might help to power your initiatives, feel free to reach out to her at laurie.lamberth@gmail.com or at (714) 412-5047.
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