China’s Technology Revolution: The Internet of Things
China is the world’s second largest economy, but it may become the world’s largest economy someday. In the technology sector, they are experiencing rapid growth and some experts say China has the edge in the “internet of things” (IoT).
Last year, the Asian superpower hosted 63% of the world’s cellular IoT connections. By 2022, China expects to spend $300 billion on IoT every year.
Alex Sinclair, GSMA Director of Technology, says:
“Connectivity is driving major industries, such as logistics, manufacturing, and energy in terms of [increasing efficiency]. [It is] also creating a new consumer market in areas, such as connected vehicles, home appliances, and laptops. [This is] putting China at the forefront of IoT deployment.”
Technologies Integrate With Big Data
As the internet of things, big data, and artificial intelligence work together, more cities are gaining momentum.
One example is the Suzhou Industrial Park. About 25 years ago, it was a plot of farmland.
Now, it is a 27 square mile industrial park that serves many big companies, including Samsung, Siemens, and Philips. The industrial park is a hub for growing technology sectors that includes nanotechnology and artificial intelligence.
Every year, China manufactures billions of electronic devices. These devices generate an enormous amount of data for scientists to extract insights to optimize processes.
Regarding China’s deployment of the internet of things, Alex states:
“The highest ranks of the Chinese regime consider the development and deployment of IoT as critical issues of China’s economic competitiveness and national security.”
Internet of Things in China’s Automotive Industry
The demands of the Chinese are growing in their automotive industry.
According to a recent report, more than 85% of Chinese consumers are eager to have an autonomous car. In addition, they have a stronger preference of in-car connectivity and internet access than other automotive markets. 40% of Chinese consumers are willing to change brands for better connectivity.
Volvo was one of the first car manufacturers to integrate in-car connectivity (e.g. Sensus Connected Touch) into their electronic systems. The Renault-Mitsubishi-Nissan company stated that all of their new vehicles in China will connect to the cloud by 2022. BMW is also upgrading their vehicles with the technology.
Since China is the world’s largest automotive market, they have the potential to become the world’s leader in autonomous vehicles too.
Internet of Things in China’s Hospitality Industry
Hotel brands are fighting to get a greater market share around the world. More hotel chains are upgrading their buildings with smart technology to improve their competitive advantage.
One example is the Intercontinental Hotels Group. Last year, they introduced smart rooms powered by artificial intelligence. IHG has introduced 100 AI-powered suites at its hotels in China. The technology enables guests to use voice commands to enjoy a convenient room service experience.
Another example is the Marriott Hotels in China. Hangzhou Marriott Hotel Qianjiang and Sanya Marriott Hotel Dadonghai Bay are the first Marriott properties in China to introduce facial recognition technology for check-in.
Finally, the best example is the fully automated hotel, Smart LYZ, in Chengdu. In this hotel, you do not have to interact with any human unless it is your preference. A robot is available to guide guests to find their rooms and they have a 24-hour online customer service that fulfills most of their guests’ requests.
Last year, Smart LYZ opened two more hotels in Shenzhen and is building 50 more hotels in China.
If you want to become familiar with IoT technologies in the hospitality industry, download our e-book “Internet of Things for Hospitality.”
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