Combine the world’s first Device Browser, NFC discovery and pairing, while eliminating the need to write a device app – could this be the ultimate Internet of Things (IoT) platform?
That’s the question on everyone’s mind as they closely inspect the solutions created by Xped, an IoT startup.
The web browser changed the world by enabling us to interact with any web site. Xped’s breakthrough technology enables us to interact with a new generation of device, irrespective of its type or brand.
This IoT platform utilises a completely new generation of device not seen before, transforming how devices are designed, operate and communicate with people and machines.
Simply tap a Near Field Communication (NFC) enabled smartphone running the Device Browser to a device and it’s ready to control. The phone automatically discovers the device, sets up a secure wireless network, gathers any resources needed and learns how to render the user interface; all from the one tap. This revolutionary, Auto Discovery Remote Control (ADRC), technology is the heart of the Device Browser.
Firmware in the device manages the integration of NFC, protocols for wireless connectivity and wireless charging. Energy management functionality is also natively built in, simplifying how we manage our resource usage.
One or more hubs can manage and coordinate the network which can include any number of devices or controllers and facilitate out of home control and cloud services; including content delivery, coupons and offers, device data and fault monitoring. An e-commerce system is designed natively into the platform to support micropayments, making it simple to monetise content and services, transforming device manufacturers from box movers to service providers.
With current industry technology, significant resources are required to write a device app, needed to provide the wireless connectivity and user interface required for smartphones. This barrier significantly alienates many SME’s and hobbyists from participating in the IoT ecosystem.
Xped removes the need for developers to write a device app. The functionality, resources and user interface of a device are fully described in a document, using an open source language developed specifically for this new generation of device. It is based on XML and even simpler to learn and use than the HTML language used industry wide to create web sites. This drastically simplifies the device design process.
A smartphone running the Device Browser uses this document, which is stored in the device or remotely, to pair and interact with the device. This system also simplifies forming Machine-to-Machine (M2M) capable networks.
Uniquely, ADRC enabled devices will operate “out of the box” even without an internet or cloud connection. Rules based applications can run on a hub, or even locally on a device, making it truly smart. This ability to operate off line will be highly desirable for consumers concerned about privacy. They can feel secure by opting out of the connected world when desired, while still being part of a smart home.
A range of accessory devices integrate existing legacy devices, including infrared controlled appliances, into the IoT ecosystem. Non NFC phones can also be configured to be controllers. The IoT era has inspired device developers globally to conceive connected devices, limited only by their imaginations. Current systems however, are based on fixed device profiles or API’s, or suppling device modules or building blocks, limiting how devices and systems are built. Additionally, manufacturers are challenged by the process of entering the IoT. With so many proprietary systems being developed, manufacturers can be forgiven for their uncertainty about adopting cloud dependent systems and third party platforms that may not align with their business requirements.
With the backing of an amazing ten patent applications; the breadth, flexibility and simplicity of this open platform; Xped has created technologies good enough to set the standard for the future of the IoT and M2M.
