Mobile IoT & Trends to Watch: What's Next for 75.44 Billion Connected Devices?

Introduction 

The Internet of Things (IoT) will significantly change, with an expected 75.44 billion devices connected by the end of 2025. But what comes next?

Several trends are converging to shape this environment, and the developments of artificial intelligence (AI), edge computing, and 5G connectivity are among the most significant. According to the Forbes newsletter, the "IoT explosion" will have millions more devices connected to the internet, generating vast amounts of data and reshaping industries.

With an increased number of devices being connected, seamless connectivity and performance across mobile networks are of the utmost concern. Because mobile technology is essential in enabling IoT solutions, optimized networks are needed to deal with this boom, guaranteeing reliability and efficiency. The deployment of 5G and Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) networks, such as LTE-M and NB-IoT, will be central to this trajectory, offering augmented coverage, reduced latency, and enhanced energy efficiency. This will be especially important in healthcare, logistics, and smart cities, where real-time monitoring and automated processes rely on secure and uninterrupted data transmission.

Mobile networks are at the center of IoT connectivity, so their optimization becomes essential for smooth functioning across businesses. This article will provide detailed descriptions of various connectivity types, key trends, and leading players.

Connectivity Types Driving Mobile IoT in 2025

Mobile IoT technologies made considerable leaps towards 2025, evolving from legacy networks like 2G, 3G, and 4G to 5G and specialized solutions like LTE-M and NB-IoT. These emerging technologies, which are cellular network-based, are designed to foster more scalable, efficient, and global IoT connectivity.

Both LTE-M and NB-IoT use the LPWA standard, offering great benefits for IoT applications, including long battery life, greater coverage, and cost-effective connectivity. These technologies offer:

• Scalability: Supporting large-scale IoT deployments in dense networks.

• Affordability: Reducing costs by eliminating cabling and utilizing public networks.

• Flexibility: Smoothly integrating with existing infrastructure for easier expansion.

• Mobility: Fostering real-time data transfer, even across multiple locations.

While comparing the two technologies, LTE-M stands out better in use cases requiring flexibility and higher data needs, making it fitting for software updates and evolving use cases. On the other hand, NB-IoT is better suited for low-data stationary applications, i.e., remote sensors. LTE-M provides wider bandwidth for more data-intensive use cases, while NB-IoT, as a narrow bandwidth, has limited scope regarding data transmission and software updates.

Looking to 2025, LTE-M will remain a top choice for dynamic use cases that require scalability and real-time communication, while NB-IoT will remain the choice for static, low-bandwidth devices. Rising 5G availability will complement LTE-M and NB-IoT with higher speeds, lower latency, and enhanced connectivity, particularly for real-time use cases like remote control and automation.

As sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture grow more reliant on interconnected devices, these technologies are laying the foundation for smarter decisions and operations. As the IoT ecosystem further grows, the conjunction of LTE-M, NB-IoT, and 5G will play an important role in unleashing the full potential of Mobile IoT in 2025 and beyond.

Key Mobile IoT Trends in 2025

The future of Mobile IoT will be characterized by continuous development and refinement of mobile networks, enabling more interconnected and smart devices. One of the key drivers of this growth is the development of iSIM (Integrated SIM) technology that is revolutionizing IoT applications with reduced form factors, enhanced power efficiency, and improved security. These strengths make iSIM an ideal solution for many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and smart cities.

The industry is led by the global rollout of 5G and the spread of low-cost sensors, both driving further connectivity and data sharing among IoT devices. There are nevertheless issues to it, including the requirement of standardized systems, battery life limitations, and security risks. In spite of these, demand for connected intelligent devices continues to push the Mobile IoT sector ahead, creating a more interconnected world and transforming industries.

Among the major trends emerging in 2025 is Global IoT, emphasizing smooth connectivity of IoT devices across borders. Global IoT is addressing the need for IoT products to seamlessly function across different regions so that real-time monitoring and data sharing can be accomplished wherever they are positioned. Industries such as logistics and transport are tapping into this phenomenon to track the position and condition of commodities, vehicles, and equipment while in transit. A good example is the development of IoT SIM cards that automatically shift to the optimum coverage network to maintain a seamless link from one zone to another.

Another crucial development of Mobile IoT is AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things), where AI is integrated into IoT systems to make them more intelligent. AI is vastly used for applications such as edge computing, fault detection, and predictive maintenance, which enables IoT devices to react to disturbances and sensor readings in real-time. This convergence of AI and IoT simplifies processes across various industries, including industrial manufacturing and logistics, where AI-powered video analytics is already optimizing operations. In the near future, AI-based edge computing will allow IoT devices to process data locally, improving real-time decision-making and reducing latency for mission-critical applications such as smart grid management and autonomous vehicles.

Lastly, IoT security is rising as a primary concern, mainly as more devices handle sensitive data and become interconnected. Preserving IoT systems' integrity, confidentiality, and availability is critical to protecting personal and industrial data. To mitigate these threats, companies are adopting a security-by-design approach, building security functionality natively into IoT device design. In addition, secure hardware and network standards, including 5G, NB-IoT, and LTE-M, are being implemented to protect IoT ecosystems from attacks and vulnerabilities.

Overall, in 2025, the Mobile IoT ecosystem will be defined by connectivity, AI, and security innovation. As iSIM technology, global IoT connectivity, AI integration, and robust security features evolve further, industries will be well-placed to take full advantage of interconnected, intelligent devices' capabilities, changing how we live and work.

Europe’s Leading Mobile IoT Players in 2025

With the forecasted growth of IoT, it will be beneficial to know the industry's leading players. For instance, Europe is a key area for Mobile IoT development practices. The market is experiencing rapid growth here, with prognoses indicating substantial revenue gains in the coming years. By 2025, the European IoT market is expected to reach US$196.85 billion, with the Industrial IoT sector leading the charge, anticipated to generate US$50.72 billion.

Some of the leading players in the European Mobile IoT market include:

• Bosch GmbH (Germany) - Automotive IoT and smart home solutions.

• Schneider Electric (France) - Energy management and industrial IoT.

• Nokia (Finland) - Smart cities and healthcare IoT solutions.

• Ericsson (Sweden) - 5G-powered industrial IoT and connectivity.

• Vodafone (UK) - Global IoT connectivity and fleet management.

• Telefónica (Spain) - IoT solutions for automotive and smart infrastructure.

In addition to these industry giants, other companies are making considerable contributions to the mobile IoT space with tailored solutions for various industries. For instance, Tado° offers smart climate control solutions, allowing users to manage heating and cooling in their homes remotely, while Senic provides the Nuimo smart controller, which enables users to connect smart devices via the Hub to create the perfect music and lighting experience. Similarly, Nuki improves home security with its smart lock system, which is managed via a mobile app.

Next, companies like Tracefy and Ingy focus on operational efficiency enhancement through IoT connectivity. Tracefy specializes in GPS-based tracking and fleet management solutions for e-bikes, while Ingy offers smart lighting systems that use IoT and sensor technology to optimize energy consumption and building automation.

Other companies, such as Munevo, Air-Q, BeWellInnovations, and Gymstory, focus on improving daily life through innovative IoT products. Munevo allows users to control smartphones hands-free using Smartglass, while Air-Q provides air quality monitoring devices that analyze indoor environments in real-time to promote healthier living spaces. BeWell Innovations focuses on health monitors that sync with the mobile app to track well-being from home and stay connected with their care team. Lastly, Gymstory offers a platform that enhances the gym experience by tracking workouts in real-time with patented sensors installed on fitness equipment, making digital fitness an essential part of every workout.

At V-Mobile, we are proud to be part of this dynamic ecosystem, delivering mobile IoT applications that complement the work of these industry leaders. We have had the experience of developing a mobile app for SharkNinja, turning their advanced IoT solutions into a mobile app. Our solutions help businesses leverage the power of IoT, offering seamless, scalable, and future-ready approaches. To learn more about how we are shaping the future of mobile IoT, we invite you to review our portfolio.

So What’s Next for Mobile IoT?

The Mobile IoT future is a time of wireless, intelligent, and secure connectivity, raising the productivity of daily transactions and making industries more sensitive to real-time needs.

As we move into 2025 and beyond, the Mobile IoT ecosystem will continue to evolve with the thrust of connectivity, artificial intelligence, and security. iSIM technology, global IoT connectivity, AI uptake, and increased security features will enable industries to realize the full potential of networked, intelligent devices. These technologies will not only optimize business processes but also revolutionize consumer experiences, smart cities, and industrial automation.