Linda Tsai explained: “IDC figures indicate that by 2025, 41.6 billion IoT devices will be in use worldwide, generating 79.4 zettabytes of data. Connected devices will be part of every aspect of our personal and professional lives, and a complex combination of technology and infrastructure will be more crucial than ever to harness the potential of the data generated by these devices.”.

“As a leader in embedded computing systems for industrial applications, Advantech is at the forefront of developing the most powerful edge computing solutions, compatible with all types of IIoT devices, as well as data centers and cloud providers. These systems are capable of handling enormous amounts of data, allowing users to optimize operational efficiency in their facilities.”.

Much of Advantech's pioneering work in this area focuses on its co-creation strategy, which involves close collaboration with systems integrators and developers to create platforms for edge solutions (Edge SRP) or IApps (Industrial Applications) to make digital transformation as fast and easy as possible. Advantech can contribute to increased optimization in areas ranging from iFactory (Smart Factory) to industrial equipment manufacturing, industrial AI, smart automation, transportation, energy and environment, and iLogistics (Smart Logistics).

Linda Tsai then identified six technology trends for 2021: digital transformation, 5G, decoupling, digitization between devices and the cloud, edge empowerment, and artificial intelligence (AI).

According to the GSMA Mobile Economy 2019 report, 5G will contribute more than $2 trillion to the global economy by 2035, with 35 percent coming from the manufacturing and utilities sectors. Meanwhile, MarketsandMarkets estimates that the value of AI in manufacturing will reach $17.2 billion by 2025.

“Advantech has developed a broad portfolio of AI platforms, including edge AI systems, sensors, and inference servers, as well as training servers for deep learning, all designed to help customers unlock the potential of AI. Furthermore, in the cloud-to-device segment, we are once again at the forefront of innovation with private cloud solutions, industrial apps, intelligent edge software, and cross-platform middleware—all specifically developed to combine optimized computing with robust and reliable performance in the most demanding environments.”.

“It is undeniable that digital transformation will impact all manufacturers worldwide in the coming years, and harnessing the power of data will be critical to competitiveness as we evolve from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0. Our global event has brought together companies from around the world to find the best ways to collaborate and leverage the power of new and emerging technologies to optimize efficiency, performance, and business success.”.

Jash Bansidhar, managing director of Advantech Europe, added: "The overarching strategy of accelerating IIoT development through the adoption of AI, 5G, and edge computing is paramount for the wider adoption and utilization of IoT technologies. Our mission remains to work with ecosystem providers to achieve sustainable success post-pandemic.".