Facebook’s Parse Launches IoT Platform
Parse, a startup that Facebook acquired in 2013, offers developers platforms for developing mobile and desktop applications. But now, Parse is also helping developers looking to link hardware to the Internet, through Parse for IoT, a line of software development kits (SDKs) made specifically for embedded devices, according to an announcement that the company made this week at Facebook’s F8 Developer Conference, in San Francisco.
The first SDKs to be released are made to be deployed on either the Arduino Yún or Raspberry Pi computer boards. Chipmakers can use an SDK that utilizes Embedded C (language extension for the C programming language) targeted for Linux and Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS).
According to Parse, early users of its IoT SDKs include garage door opener company Chamberlain; Milestone Sports, which makes the Milestone Pod, a wearable device that tracks a runner’s mileage and form; and Roost, which makes a lithium battery with integrated Wi-Fi capabilities designed for use in smoke alarms.
Senate Makes Resolution, FTC Creates Tech Oversight Group
Last month, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation convened with a panel of investors, technologists and end users of Internet of Things devices, to discuss the IoT’s emergence in commercial and consumer applications, as well as its current and future impacts on data privacy and security.
This week, the bipartisan group of committee members who called for the hearing—Senators Kelly Ayotte, Cory Booker, Deb Fischer and Brian Schatz—passed Senate Resolution 110, or The Internet of Things Resolution. The resolution states that “the United States should develop a strategy to incentivize the development of the Internet of Things in a way that maximizes the promise connected technologies hold to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, and improve our collective social well-being.”
It also calls on the United States to accelerate the development and deployment of IoT technology—though in a way that “responsibly protects against misuse,” and to “recognize the importance of consensus-based best practices and communication among stakeholders.” The resolution further calls for the U.S. government itself to use IoT technology to become efficient, to avoid fraud or abuse, and to improve the quality of life for future generations, as well asking IoT “innovators” to commit themselves to “improving the quality of life for future generations by developing safe, new technologies aimed at tackling the most challenging societal issues facing the world.”
Also this week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which this winter released two reports detailing security recommendations, announced that its Bureau of Consumer Protection has formed the Office of Technology Research and Investigation. The office is described as the successor to the Bureau of Consumer Protection, Mobile Technology Unit (MTU), which was formed in response to the growth in smartphone usage by consumers, and which created reports calling for consumer protections regarding mobile apps targeted at children.
The Office of Technology Research and Investigation will, according to a blog post by FTC chief technologist Ashkan Soltani, tackle “an even broader array of investigative research on technology issues involving all facets of the FTC’s consumer protection mission, including privacy, data security, connected cars, smart homes, algorithmic transparency, emerging payment methods, big data, and the Internet of Things.”
Konekt Campaign Surges Past Goal
Konekt, a startup that sells hardware and support for developers interested in creating cellular-connected IoT devices, has well exceeded its $10,000 Kickstarter goal to launch Konekt Dash, a package that includes a global subscriber identity module (SIM) card, as well as a choice of development kits, sensors and cellular subscription plans. The kit configuration is based on the support’s pledge level, but the options start with a six-month basic data plan of 1 megabyte per month or 6 megabytes for the total six-month period. At press time, the campaign had raised nearly $17,400 with 120 backers.
Silicon Labs’ Connected World Contest
Silicon Labs and Digi-Key Electronics have launched a contest called Connected World, with a purse of $10,000 worth of components, to stoke ideas for connected devices. Entrants are asked to submit a video demonstrating their ideas for IoT devices that use Silicon Labs microcontrollers, and will be judged on their level of innovation and the products’ marketability. Those with ready prototypes will receive preference. Submissions are due by July 17, with judging slated to end on Aug. 3.