IBM has announced plans to create a dedicated business unit for Internet of Things (IoT), and will fund it to the tune of $3 billion over the next four years.

Big Blue is a keen adherent of the idea that connected devices (be they sensors, cars or fridges) will be able to provide real-time data that makes everyone’s lives that much easier.

 The formation of its IoT business unit is a standard procedure for IBM, which typically targets an area it perceives to be prime for high value growth.Nevertheless, IBM faces some tough competition in its assault on the IoT.

 In addition to the new IoT unit, IBM has also struck up a partnership with The Weather Company’s business-to-business division, which will see it deliver micro weather forecasts using sensors from a mix of aircraft, buildings, drones and smartphones.

As part of the deal, The Weather Company plans to shift its data services from Amazon Web Services to IBM’s cloud platform, having previously been one of AWS’s reference customers.

Author: Mike Wheatley

Publish Date: 31/03/2015

Source: siliconangle.com