Internet of Things

Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and applications are bringing fundamental changes to all sectors of activity and are therefore an essential element of the Next Generation Internet. The challenge is to leverage EU technological strength to develop the next generation of IoT devices and systems that build on enhanced sensing/actuating, reasoning capabilities and computational power to the edges, but also new capabilities on the backend, such as artificial intelligence, deep semantic interoperability and novel contractual arrangements like Blockchains.

Scope

Coordination and Support Actions

A support action which will support IoT policies under the Digitising European Industry strategy especially in the context of human-centered IoT. In particular, it should analyse and evaluate security and privacy concepts across on-going and new European projects and initiatives in the IoT Focus Area and carry out trend scouting for future research and innovation policy through liaising with academic, industrial and policy stakeholders. The approach should include to build and sustain a vibrant network of IoT technology providers in Europe as well as ensuring the end-user trust in the security concerns as well respect for privacy.

The CSA will analyse and compile trends in IoT research and innovation with the aim to define research roadmap for future IoT related activities. The CSA shall evaluate and take into account emerging business models and shall support consensus building both with suppliers and users across Europe. It shall disseminate and seek support for results from a broad range of stakeholders in the IoT domain and relevant areas of the Next Generation Internet (NGI) initiative.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of EUR 1.5 million would allow this area to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

Expected Impact

• Broad consensus on a strategy on human-centred IoT evolution improving usability and user acceptance, notably through strengthened security, privacy and user trust.
• Identified roadmap that enables taking the right measures to put Europe in the lead for IoT research and innovation through a long-term evolution of IoT platform strategy and through scientific progress enabling novel, future semi-autonomous IoT applications.
• Capacity to create and sustain a vibrant technology cluster involving all stakeholders including industry, technology, and end-users.

Delegation Exception Footnote

It is expected that this topic will continue in 2020.

Cross-cutting Priorities

Socio-economic science and humanities