Politics
Take a Bow Millennials: The IoT is a Reality Thanks to You – ReadWrite
It’s not that millennials came up with the idea of IoT. If we look at the history of IoT, we were tinkering with connected machines from the early nineties. Aside from a few precocious tweens, most millennials were still learning at school rather than making waves in IoT. “IoT is a reality” — this trend is finally becoming true. Dreamed of by computer nerds everywhere for decades, we’re finally seeing a fully connected world. And, while millennials take a lot of flack for other things, here they get all the credit.
Let’s Understand the History
However, the technology at the time was hopelessly inadequate. No one could’ve made those now-antiquated systems operable. Do you remember Cellnet? Probably not. Hardly anyone does. Compared to today’s technology, it was low in bandwidth and completely insecure. Even a baby boomer could hack those networks today.
What sets millennials apart here, however, is that they grew up knowing that the IoT would be a reality. Baby Boomers watched sci-fi shows like Star Trek, and these sparked some ideas, perhaps. At the end of the day, everyone knew that such technologies belonged to the realm of science fiction.
Millennials, on the other hand, grew up as Trekkies started to make some of those futuristic creations a reality. The Star Trek crew walked around with hand-held or touch-activated communicators and scanners. You could locate someone using their communicators. The medical team would use the scanners to read biometric data.
We all carry a similar, albeit more basic, form of this technology in our mobile phones and biometric scanners today. Baby boomers were the dreamers. Millennials saw the fruition of some of those dreams and so became believers.
And while IoT adoption was slower than most believed, the big players committed to improving the infrastructure. Dell pledged $1 billion in 2017 to the future of the IoT to become a reality. Google, Amazon, and Apple also all invested heavily in IoT at the time.
The Situation As It Stands Now
Just three years later, the situation is very different. We now have smart speakers, thermostats, security systems, cars, and many more smart devices.
According to industry projections at the end of 2019, the reality of IoT is one of the new decade’s tech booms. The number of connected devices should hit the 50 billion mark by 2030.
Source: Statista
That’s an average of seven devices for every person globally, and a stark rise from the 2018 average of about three per person.
There’s a buzz around the IoT, and it’s not going away anytime soon. And we have millennials to thank for that.
Why Millennials?
Representing <a href=”https://teamstage.io/millennials-in-the-workplace-statistics/”>75% of the global workforce by 2025</a>, millennials are the force to be reckoned with.
They were the early adopters and chose to stay connected. This generation was the one hardest hit by the subprime lending crisis in 2008. They’ve learned the value of a shared economy.
They’re now one of the primary economic forces globally. And that means they’re in a prime position to ensure that their IoT goals are met. They’re the ones that are driving many of the SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS solutions that we see today.
The IoT is a big part of the new sharing economy, so it’ll endure.
IoT Reality-How the Sharing Economy Is Changing the World
Another example of the sharing economy is asset accumulation. For the baby boomers, owning your car and house was a status symbol to achieve.
Today’s nouveau riche prefers to pay for what they use rather than acquire an asset outright. They buy assets that they can earn an income through. They no longer, however, invest in depreciating assets any longer.
IoT plays an essential role in the pay as you use model. Someone running an Airbnb property, for example, can use digital locks. They provide the password to the new users. When the person leaves, they generate a new code.
Up-and-coming young people may also choose the pay-as-you-go model for service reasons. IoT technologies built into a vehicle, for example, may monitor driving performance. Those that drive more carefully might receive preferable rates going forward.
Owners may track vehicles and detect when there’s a break-down or collision. They could dispatch emergency services or roadside assistance immediately. These are little things that provide additional benefits. The system may remind them to stop at a gas station or report for a maintenance check.
Naturally, there are concessions to make. Should they drive poorly, they’ll pay extra for your rental.
Still, considering the immediate drop-off in value when you buy a brand-new car, it might be worthwhile. With a pay as you go model, upgrades are easier than with an owned vehicle.
These are just some examples of how the sharing economy and IoT work hand in hand to improve service delivery. It’s not all sunshine and roses, however.
The Loss of Privacy
This, again, might be something that we have millennials to thank for. They’ve grown up in an environment where privacy takes on a whole new meaning. Many share everything online, It’s a culture that, by its nature, means any information is up for grabs.
In all fairness to them, they were among the first generations to fully embrace social media. At the time, no one could foresee the long-term consequences of such a pairing. Twenty years ago, the idea that commenting on a public forum might lose you your job was ludicrous. Today IoT is a reality.
The misuse of technology was inevitable. Even so, who could have foreseen something such as the Cambridge Analytica scandal?
Recap of the Cambridge Analytica Scandal
In 2014, the free Facebook app, “This Is Your Digital Life,” was released. A few hundred thousand people downloaded the fun app. It didn’t seem like a big hit. It was, however, ideal for the developers. The app allowed them to harvest the app users’ data. It also gave them access to the data of anyone connected to them on Facebook.
An investigative reporter broke the story a year later. It was too late -the damage was done. As it turned out, the information harvested was used in developing Donald Trump’s presidential campaign.
There have been several scandals since that made this one seem tame. But it’s fair to say that the Cambridge Analytica scandal was the one that shocked the world into a realization of the dangers of sharing data.
In this instance, the information wasn’t collected for malicious reasons. The researchers didn’t use it to commit identity theft or any equally nefarious purposes. However, they did use it to influence the outcome of politics within one of the world’s superpowers. That’s frightening.
We’ve singled out social media here, but the sharing economy enables most companies to harvest data from their clients. There are several other instances that we could cite here.
Other Surreptitious Data Shares
Take a smart thermostat, for example. It’s convenient and links into a phone app for ease of control. What users seldom realize is that many models also transmit usage data back to the manufacturer.
The companies collect this information to understand their client needs better. They use it to improve their product offerings. Is there a massive outcry over this kind of monitoring? It seems not. Many users accept the tradeoff if they perceive better service delivery.
Another sterling example is the free antivirus software, Avast. Last year, the firm got caught out and confirmed that it tracked 400 million users’ browsing habits. It then “de-identified” those users.
What did it do with the information? IT sold it off through its Jumpshot division.
According to Avast, the company sold no personally-identifying information. Experts, however, questioned the efficiency of the process used to strip the data.
The revelation didn’t destroy the firm, which is a testament to how little we value our privacy. Instead, it saw a 7.93% rise in adjusted earnings. It seems that consumers accept that real privacy is a thing of the past. Many are willing to let it go if they feel adequately rewarded.
Naturally, they feel somewhat differently about when that information is used to their detriment. That brings us to the next project for our creative millennials – securing the IoT.
Securing the IoT
The IoT is in use in almost every aspect of our daily lives. Everyone with a smart device is part of the collective. That brings with it enormous possibilities. It also puts a higher burden of care on these devices’ manufacturers.
Let’s look at a simple office environment. Firms may have smart printers, screens, tablets, desktops, laptops, smartphones, bulbs, thermostats, and even coffee machines. They all form part of the IoT reality. Each unit is a potential access point to the company’s online systems.
In case you think we’re a little paranoid, think again. Forbes recently reported that Martin Hron, a researcher at Avast, conducted a little experiment. Hron decided to see how secure the coffee maker in the office was.
It sounds ridiculous, but it was child’s play for him. The device had no in-built encryption. He was able to read the firmware. It took him minutes to take control. The router didn’t protect against the attack because the device acted as a Wi-Fi point on its own.
You may wonder what the point of this exercise was. After all, a coffee maker won’t lead you to world domination. Hron, however, proved that it could make a handy ransomware tool. He ran several cycles of the machine. Each cycle created a noisy distraction in the office.
The office workers’ only option was to disconnect the device. If they powered it up, the problems started all over again. Hron was in a position to demand a ransom to call off the attack.
It seems like a stupid issue. The firm would be more likely to buy a new coffee maker than pay the ransom. What happens, however, if it’s a busy coffee shop with a machine worth thousands?
Is a Simple Device a Backdoor?
More importantly, what if other devices in the network are equally vulnerable? It’s also worth considering that the machine can link to the company’s router. Could it give a determined hacker access to the firm’s sensitive data? Could it help them take down the server?
It’s a valid concern. Most people will have heard of a DDoS attack. This is where a hacker uses a bot army to crash a company’s servers. With the internet of things, that bot army might well be lurking in the firm’s offices.
We’ve listed the number of smart devices that firms might use. Should a hacker gain control of those devices, they may pull off a simple denial-of-service attack. During such an attack, the company’s own network’s tools flood the server with service requests.
The results might well be deadly. Each device on the network is authorized to operate within it, so the requests won’t trigger alarms. At best, the server’s performance will slow. At worst, it’ll crash.
A determined hacker could demand a ransom to halt the attack. They might also earn money by working for a company’s competition.
It seems incredible that a smart bulb might be a cybersecurity threat. It’s something to consider in our increasingly connected environment.
Encryption protocols are typically used to protect data. If the device doesn’t contain data, the manufacturer might see no reason for such security.
Regulators in the United States and worldwide have already noted this threat. They’re currently working on ways to improve the overall security of such devices.
In the interim, it’s something that our millennial friends need to put their minds to as well. We’re sure that they’ll come up with workable solutions.
Final Notes
The IoT was an idea born decades before its time. Now that its time is here, we find that it has almost limitless promise. It’s hard to deny, however, that there are some serious security concerns to overcome.
Being continuously connected leaves us vulnerable to cybersecurity threats that no one saw coming. Who’d have thought that a simple coffee maker could become the center of such a debate? Still, the generation that is responsible for the reason why IoT is a reality today could well be the one to solve the potential security issues.
Image Credit: pete linforth; pixaby
Politics
Soft Skills in Tech: Seeking Teachability in New Hires
Politics
Best Hoka Shoes of 2023
Selecting the right pair of shoes is crucial for achieving optimal performance and comfort during any physical activity. HOKA is a popular brand known for producing shoes with maximal cushioning, making them ideal for runners and other athletes seeking to reduce the impact on their joints. In this article, we will compare and contrast several HOKA ONE ONE shoe models for both men and women, highlighting their key features and benefits.
Expert Review Process
Expert reviews of HOKA ONE ONE shoes typically involve a detailed assessment of the shoes’ design, materials, and performance, as well as an evaluation of their fit and comfort. This may involve running or walking in the shoes, testing them on various surfaces, and comparing them to other shoe models in the same category.
Experts may also take into account feedback from consumers and other athletes, as well as industry trends and advancements in footwear technology. They may evaluate the shoes based on factors such as cushioning, stability, breathability, and support, as well as their overall value for the price.
In addition to evaluating individual shoe models, experts may also provide broader insights into the HOKA ONE ONE brand as a whole, highlighting its history, values, and commitment to innovation in footwear design.
Ultimately, the expert review process of HOKA ONE ONE shoes aims to provide consumers with a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of the shoes’ strengths and weaknesses, helping them make informed decisions when choosing the right pair of shoes for their needs.
HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Womens Shoes
The HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women’s Shoes offer an incredibly comfortable and lightweight running experience, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Key Stats
- Weight: 7.2 oz (Women’s size 7)
- Stack height: 29mm (heel), 24mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 5mm
Should You Buy?
Reasons to buy the HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women’s Shoes include their exceptional cushioning, which provides a smooth and responsive ride for all types of runners. The redesigned mesh upper offers enhanced breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool during long runs. The shoe also features a more durable outsole, resulting in a longer-lasting shoe that continues delivering first-class performance mile after mile.
However, there are also reasons to consider not purchasing the Clifton 8. Some users may find the price point to be on the higher side, or the thick cushioning may not suit runners who prefer a more minimalist or closer-to-ground feel. Additionally, the wider fit may not adequately support those with very narrow feet or require a more secure lock-down.
Pros and Cons
In summary, the HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women’s Shoes provide an excellent combination of cushioning, lightweight, and durability. Pros include the shoe’s outstanding comfort, responsive performance, and breathability, while potential cons for some users are the price, thicker cushioning, and wider fit.
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Mens Shoes deliver unparalleled cushioning, support, and comfort, earning a well-deserved rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Key Stats
– Midsole: Full-length compression-molded EVA foam
– Outsole: Durable rubber with strategically placed carbon rubber for added durability
– Weight: 10.9 oz (US size 9)
Should You Buy?
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Mens Shoes are perfect for those seeking exceptional cushioning and support for various activities like running, walking, or standing for long hours. Its full-length EVA midsole provides outstanding shock absorption, reducing the stress on your joints and feet. The shoe’s Meta-Rocker technology promotes a natural, efficient gait, while its breathable upper ensures comfortable, well-ventilated wear. Durable construction and materials mean that these shoes are built to last, providing fantastic value for money.
Some customers might find the HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Mens Shoes too bulky or heavy, especially for fast or nimble training. For people with narrower feet, the wider toe box may lead to an uncomfortable fit. The shoe’s premium features and materials also come at a higher price point, which might not suit budget-conscious consumers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Unmatched cushioning and support
– Versatile for various activities
– Durable construction and materials
– Breathable upper
Cons:
– Bulky and heavier compared to other models
– Wide toe box might be too spacious for some
– Higher price point
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes deliver exceptional comfort and support for everyday runners, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats
– Ultra-cushioned EVA midsole
– Engineered mesh upper for breathability
– Beveled heel design for smooth transitions
These shoes are perfect for those seeking maximum cushioning and support, making them ideal for long runs or daily wear. The Bondi 7 features a comfortable EVA midsole, providing excellent shock absorption and a plush underfoot feel. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry throughout your run. Additionally, the beveled heel aids in smooth and stable transitions, making these shoes an excellent choice for improving your running experience.
On the downside, the HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 may not be suitable for those in search of a lightweight or minimalistic running shoe, as the shoe delivers a more substantial feel on-foot. Moreover, these shoes might be too cushioned for some, potentially leading to less ground feel and responsiveness during faster-paced runs or more technical terrain.
Pros and Cons
Pros and Cons: The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes offer immense cushioning and support, ideal for long runs and everyday wear. The breathable mesh upper and beveled heel design adds to the shoe’s overall comfort and performance. However, it may not be the best option for those seeking a lightweight, minimalistic shoe or those desiring more ground feel and responsiveness.
The HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Low-top Sneaker is a top-notch sports shoe designed for women seeking comfort, support, and style, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Key Stats
• Weight: 9.95 oz / 282 g
• Stack Height: 27 mm (heel), 22 mm (forefoot)
• Material: Mesh upper, rubber outsole
Should You Buy?
Reasons to buy the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Low-top Sneaker include its amazing cushioning that provides ample support for long walks or runs. The lightweight design doesn’t compromise on durability, ensuring that you get efficient performance without feeling weighed down. With its stylish appearance and wide range of color options, you will surely find one that matches your personal taste.
On the other hand, some customers may not appreciate the slightly higher price point compared to other brands. Additionally, the shoe’s unique design may not provide the snug fit that some individuals prefer in their athletic footwear.
Pros and Cons
In conclusion, the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Low-top Sneaker has its pros like excellent cushioning, lightweight design, and stylish appearance, making it an attractive option for those who value comfort and support during physical activities. On the other hand, the cons include a somewhat higher price point and a potentially less-snug fit for certain users.
The HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe is a top-of-the-line running shoe offering excellent cushioning and stability with a stylish, sleek design, deserving a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Key Stats
Cushion: Plush, full-length EVA midsole
• Weight: 8.9oz (251.72g)
• Drop: 4mm
Should You Buy?
Reasons to buy the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe are numerous. With a plush full-length EVA midsole, this shoe offers supreme comfort for extended periods of wear, making it perfect for long runs and extended workouts. The Bondi 7 also provides excellent stability and support due to its smoother transitions and balanced Meta-Rocker. The shoe’s stylish design and variety of color options further make it an attractive option for individuals who prioritize both form and function in their athletic footwear.
While the Bondi 7 Running Shoe has many positive attributes, there are still a few reasons to consider other options. For one, the weight of the shoe at 8.9 ounces could potentially feel heavy for some runners who prefer a more minimalist shoe. Additionally, the price point of the Bondi 7 is comparatively high, which may deter budget-conscious consumers.
Pros and Cons
In conclusion, the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a comfortable, stable, and stylish running shoe. Pros of the Bondi 7 include its plush cushioning, excellent stability, and variety of color options. However, potential cons include the shoe’s weight and its higher price point compared to other running shoe options.
The Hoka Women’s Stinson 6 Shoes provide maximal cushioning and a comfortable ride, earning a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats
• Weight: 10.2 oz (289 grams)
• Stack Height: 37mm (heel), 32mm (forefoot)
• Category: Maximal Cushioning Road Running Shoe
Should You Buy?
The Hoka Women’s Stinson 6 Shoes are an excellent choice for runners seeking plush cushioning and a smooth ride. The thick EVA foam midsole delivers exceptional shock absorption, making it suitable for long runs and recovery days. The engineered mesh upper ensures proper breathability, while the Meta-Rocker technology encourages a natural and efficient running gait. The Stinson 6 also features a durable outsole, allowing for reliable traction on various surfaces.
Some potential drawbacks of the Hoka Women’s Stinson 6 Shoes include its heavier weight, which might not appeal to faster runners or those looking for a more lightweight and agile shoe. The maximal cushioning might also feel excessive for runners who are used to low-profile or minimalist shoes. Finally, the shoe’s price tag could be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Maximum cushioning for excellent comfort and shock absorption
• Meta-Rocker technology to promote an efficient running gait
• Breathable and comfortable upper
Cons:
• Heavier weight compared to other running shoes
• Excessive cushioning may not suit all runners’ preferences
• Higher price point
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes are an exceptional blend of cushioning, support, and performance, earning a 4.5 out of 5-star rating.
Key Stats
– Weight: 10.3 oz (292 g) for men’s size 9
– Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm (32mm heel, 28mm forefoot)
– Price range: $130-$200
Should You Buy?
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes provide runners with excellent cushioning without being overly bulky, making them suitable for a variety of running activities. Their unique rocker-shaped sole promotes a smooth and efficient running stride, reducing the impact on joints and muscles.
The shoes also offer exceptional stability and support, making them ideal for runners who may struggle with overpronation or other gait-related issues. Lastly, these shoes offer excellent value for their price range as they boast a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
Although the Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes excel in cushioning and support, they may feel too maximalist or heavy for some runners who prefer a more minimal or lightweight option. Additionally, the shoe’s unique design can require a period of adjustment, as it might not suit everyone’s running style or gait right away. Lastly, some customers have reported durability issues with the upper material, which may require more frequent replacements than other shoes at a similar price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Excellent cushioning and support
– Unique rocker-shaped sole for a smooth stride
– Suitable for various running activities
– Good value for the price range
Cons:
– May be too maximalist or heavy for some runners
– Adjustment period for those unfamiliar with Hoka shoes
– Potential durability issues with upper material
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes are an exceptional blend of cushioning, support, and performance, earning a 4.5 out of 5-star rating.
Key Stats
– Weight: 10.3 oz (292 g) for men’s size 9
– Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm (32mm heel, 28mm forefoot)
– Price range: $130-$200
Should You Buy?
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes provide runners with excellent cushioning without being overly bulky, making them suitable for various running activities. Their unique rocker-shaped sole promotes a smooth and efficient running stride, reducing the impact on joints and muscles. The shoes also offer exceptional stability and support, making them ideal for runners struggling with overpronation or other gait-related issues. Lastly, these shoes offer excellent value for their price range as they boast a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
Although the Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes excel in cushioning and support, they may feel too maximalist or heavy for some runners who prefer a more minimal or lightweight option. Additionally, the shoe’s unique design can require a period of adjustment, as it might not suit everyone’s running style or gait right away. Lastly, some customers have reported durability issues with the upper material, which may require more frequent replacements than other shoes at a similar price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Excellent cushioning and support
– Unique rocker-shaped sole for a smooth stride
– Suitable for various running activities
– Good value for the price range
Cons:
– May be too maximalist or heavy for some runners
– Adjustment period for those unfamiliar with Hoka shoes
– Potential durability issues with upper material
The HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Speedgoat 4 Textile Synthetic Trainers excel in comfort and durability, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats
– Cushioning: Exceptional with responsive EVA midsole
– Traction: Multi-directional Vibram Megagrip outsole
– Fit: Secure with breathable, lightweight upper material
Should You Buy?
If you’re a trail runner seeking a comfortable, durable, and grippy shoe for various terrains, the Speedgoat 4 is an excellent choice. This shoe features a responsive EVA midsole, providing ample cushioning for long runs or hikes. The Vibram Megagrip outsole offers outstanding traction on diverse surfaces, while the synthetic textile upper ensures a secure fit without compromising breathability or weight. Overall, this shoe is a reliable option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a high-performance trainer.
While the Speedgoat 4 has many positives, it might not be the perfect fit for everybody. Its maximal cushioning may dissuade those who prefer a more minimalist, ground-feel shoe. Additionally, the shoe may run narrow for some individuals, proving problematic for those with wider feet. Lastly, the price point might deter budget-conscious shoppers who are not ready to invest in premium footwear just yet.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Excellent cushioning, exceptional traction, secure fit, lightweight, breathable
Cons: May not suit minimalist preferences, potentially narrow fit, higher price point
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between maximal and moderate cushioning in HOKA ONE ONE shoes?
Maximal cushioning provides more cushioning and support, making it ideal for runners who want to reduce the impact on their joints. Moderate cushioning, on the other hand, provides a balance between cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for a variety of physical activities.
Are HOKA ONE ONE shoes only for running?
No, HOKA ONE ONE offers a range of shoes suitable for a variety of physical activities, including trail running, hiking, and casual wear.
How do I choose the right size of HOKA ONE ONE shoes?
It is recommended to measure your foot size and consult the HOKA ONE ONE size chart to determine the appropriate size for you. Additionally, it is recommended to try on the shoes and walk or run in them to ensure a proper fit.
Are HOKA ONE ONE shoes durable?
Yes, HOKA ONE ONE shoes are known for their durability, with many models featuring durable materials and reinforced designs.
Can HOKA ONE ONE shoes be used for high-intensity training?
Yes, some HOKA ONE ONE models, such as the Bondi and Clifton, are suitable for high-intensity training due to their responsive and supportive design. However, it is recommended to choose a shoe model that is specifically designed for the type of activity you plan to engage in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, HOKA offers a range of shoe models with different cushioning levels and designs to cater to the needs of various athletes. The Clifton 8, Bondi 8, and Rincon 3 are ideal for road running, while the Stinson 6 and Bondi 7 are suitable for trail running. Additionally, the brand’s low-top sneakers offer a comfortable and casual option for everyday wear.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply seeking a comfortable pair of shoes for daily wear, HOKA ONE ONE has a shoe model to suit your needs. By considering the features and benefits of each shoe model, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect pair of shoes for your fitness journey.
