Microsoft recently announced plans for investing $5 billion over the next four years to develop new products and services for the IoT. More specifically, the software giant will focus on products and services for:
- IoT operating systems.
- Cloud storage platforms.
- AI-based analytics tools related to the data collected by IoT devices.
Analysts are citing two primary areas of focus for Microsoft. The first is advanced edge computing to supplement its Azure cloud computing business. In particular, strengthening its position in the cloud is seen as a way to help it compete with moves Amazon has made to boost machine learning platforms.
Edge computing can be loosely defined as the use of data gathered from machines and other sources that do not reside near the central network. This data is typically shared via cloud computing. As manufacturing continues to expand its physical footprint and depend more heavily on remote monitoring capabilities, the edge networking market is expected to grow exponentially. According to Business Insider Intelligence, as many as 5.6 billion IoT devices could be connected to edge-based solutions by 2023.
The second focal point lies within mixed reality-based solutions that can help support IoT projects. The most prominent example would be the HoloLens mixed reality headset. It appears that Microsoft would be looking to develop new offerings that integrate more sensor data. This development could allow technicians to access maintenance records and relate current readings to historical data, machine schematics, and manufacturer recommendations all while wearing the headset.