The 5 IOT Network Trends to Watch

Originally published in 2022, this article has been updated for 2026 to reflect the latest advancements in IOT networks and devices.

An “Internet of Things” (IoT) solution is a connected system of smart devices that can collect, share and respond to data across a wider digital environment. From building management systems and workplace technology to healthcare equipment and retail operations, the role of the IoT network is becoming increasingly important for organisations looking to improve efficiency, connectivity, and control. As more IoT devices are introduced into commercial buildings, facilities teams need reliable systems that can support secure communication between devices, platforms, and users. Here are five IoT network trends to look out for as connected technologies continue to shape the future of smart buildings.

1. Continued IoT Network growth

The number of connected IoT devices has increased significantly over the past 15 years, and this growth is expected to continue as more organisations invest in smart building technology. As these devices become more advanced, the demand for a secure and scalable IoT network will also grow.

For facilities managers, this means connected systems are no longer limited to isolated technologies. Instead, they are becoming part of wider digital ecosystems that can support building performance, energy efficiency, security, and occupant experience. As adoption increases, innovation across the IoT industry is likely to accelerate, creating more opportunities for organisations to use real-time data to make informed decisions.

2. Benefits acrossin a range of sectors

IoT networks are already helping to improve productivity, visibility, and operational efficiency across a wide range of sectors. In healthcare, connected medical equipment such as heart rate monitors, wheelchairs, and patient support systems can help teams access important information more quickly. In retail, IoT-enabled technologies can support inventory management, occupancy monitoring, and building performance.

These benefits are also becoming more relevant across commercial offices, education, manufacturing, and mixed-use facilities. With the right IoT hub, organisations can bring data from different systems together, making it easier to monitor performance, identify issues, and improve day-to-day operations.

3. Importance of an IoT Hub

As smart buildings become more connected, the need for a centralised and intuitive IoT hub is becoming increasingly important. An IoT hub helps connect multiple devices, systems, and platforms, allowing facilities teams to manage building data from a more unified environment.

This is particularly valuable as organisations expand their smart device networks. A well-managed IoT network can support improved security, better asset protection, and more efficient building operations. Johnson Controls’ OpenBlue solutions are designed to help organisations create connected, intelligent environments that support smarter decision-making across their buildings.

4. IoT devices and remote working

Hybrid and remote working have changed how many organisations manage their buildings. With employees dividing their time between offices, homes, and other workspaces, connected technologies have become essential for maintaining visibility, comfort, and control.

IoT devices can support this shift by helping facilities teams monitor occupancy, adjust building systems, manage energy use, and maintain secure environments. They also play an important role in building controls with IoT devices, allowing organisations to respond more effectively to changing workplace needs.

As working patterns continue to evolve, a reliable IoT network will be vital for supporting flexible, efficient, and connected building operations.

5. 5G opportunities

The continued rollout of 5G mobile networks is creating new opportunities for IoT connectivity. Faster speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity can help support more responsive connected systems, making it easier for smart devices to communicate across larger and more complex environments.

For smart buildings, 5G could help strengthen the performance of the IoT network by enabling quicker data transfer and more reliable device communication. This could support a wide range of applications, from building automation and security systems to energy management and predictive maintenance.

As 5G becomes more widely adopted, organisations can expect to see new IoT solutions and connectivity models that help improve how buildings are monitored, managed, and optimised.

Johnson Controls’ role in IoT Hubs and Networking

The connected experiences that OpenBlue provides led us to be named “Overall IoT Company of the Year” in 2020. Therefore, the effectiveness of our Digital Solutions, as well as the role we aim to play in providing secure IoT networks, remains significant in this space and has continued to grow ever since. In addition to this, George Oliver was named "IoT Company CEO of the Year" through the IoT Breakthrough Awards Program 2022.

As demand for secure and scalable IoT networks continues to grow, Johnson Controls remains focused on helping organisations make better use of connected technologies. From intelligent building systems to integrated platforms and IoT hub solutions, our approach is designed to support smarter buildings and more efficient operations.

To find out more about Johnson Controls and our IoT solutions, explore our range of OpenBlue systems or contact our team using the form below.