M2M stands for machine-to-machine, mobile-to-machine, and machine-to-mobile communications. It is about networking the machines and devices that pervade our everyday lives. M2M communications will connect and enable an array of equipment from mainframes to everyday products in order to unleash new levels of ‘smart services’ and commerce.
M2M communications can exist in practically any environment and market. Companies can now service devices like never before. With the ability to tap into a device’s data stream on an ongoing basis, companies are able to track and service a device throughout its entire lifecycle; from the assembly line to the recycling heap. This is leading to a redefinition of customer relationships and business operations.
Within the next 18-24 months, M2M applications will go from being isolated examples to being mainstream and commonplace. As the communications infrastructure, enabled devices, and business models collaborate to convincingly solve real business problems, M2M will be unleashed on the economy, creating truly significant benefits and opportunities.
