IoT and Android: How These Devices Connect and Communicate (with/without Internet)!

Android is a Universal Front-end

Android has a well-established app ecosystem; this Linux-based software is open-source, making it accessible to developers to use and customise its source code in any gadget.  Many IoT devices have dedicated Android apps that allow users to easily monitor and control their smart devices. The availability of these apps enhances the interoperability between Android devices and IoT devices. Another reason why IoT developers prefer Android is that it lowers the overall cost of IoT devices, making it affordable for consumers.

Android works on Linux Kernel and uses Java, C, and C++

Android uses Linux kernel, which serves as the core of the operating system. The Linux kernel provides essential functionalities such as hardware abstraction, device drivers, and core system services. Many IoT devices and platforms leverage the Linux kernel for their operating systems due to its open-source nature, stability, and wide device support.

Developing Android applications using software Drivers for sensors or IoT devices

When developing Android applications that interact with sensors or IoT devices, software drivers refers to the specialised code that allows communication between the Android operating system and the sensors or IoT devices.

Use of open-source Protocol libraries like BACnet, BLE, etc

Open-source libraries provide standardised communication protocols that allow devices to exchange data seamlessly. Libraries like BACnet, BLE and more facilitate communication between devices like HVAC systems, wearables, health monitors and more. Propriety protocols on top of interfaces like Ethernet, Internet Protocol, USB, Bluetooth, UART, RS-232 etc. Android is built on Linux Kernel and uses Java, C, C++

This gives rise to the question- can IoT work without the internet?

A study by Statista found that there will be more than 29 billion connected devices, almost six devices for each of the 7.7 billion people on Earth. However, not all these devices directly connect to the internet.

Many devices, like those in homes or factories, connect to a router using a non-IP bus like ZigBee. In this case, the router is the only one staying connected to the internet, allowing it to communicate with the device’s remote components.

Small sensors and similar devices can work better when they’re not directly linked to a powerful internet-based network. This is because having an IP address can make them more vulnerable to hacking. Additionally, some devices might be in remote areas without a consistent and dependable internet connection.

In such cases, there are limited options to log data locally and move it to a location which gives insights and recommendations using a memory stick. Despite the lack of internet, long-distance communications are possible with the right tools. An example is Thingstream, a network based on Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) communications. USSD provides secure IoT connectivity without relying on the internet.

Due to gateways that work on standard IP networks, IoT devices can easily communicate at a distance of a few kilometres to a specific range depending on the environment.

So, does IoT need the internet to operate?

Even though IoT doesn’t require the internet, its name comes from the fact that it uses similar technology. Think of IoT as objects using internet-like tech, which is valuable even without the internet.

Let’s understand this by taking an example of an ‘automated soil irrigation system’.

In the irrigation system, IoT can track the program activities and its learnings, such as turning the water supply off when the soil is wet, and the amount of water required. But, when you include the internet with the same information, the data from IoT use it to monitor soil and provide real-time insights into the information required for analysis.

Communication Protocols

Identify the communication protocols supported by your IoT device. Common protocols include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, MQTT, CoAP, etc.

Develop or Install IoT Apps

Check if there’s a dedicated app for your IoT device on the platform. If not, you might need to develop or install an app that supports your specific IoT device.

Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Setup

For Wi-Fi-enabled IoT devices, you’ll need to connect them to your local Wi-Fi network. For Bluetooth-enabled devices, you may need to pair the devices through the Android Bluetooth settings.

APIs and SDKs

If you’re developing an app to interface with your IoT device, use the manufacturer’s APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) or SDKs (Software Development Kits). These tools provide the necessary functions and methods for your app to communicate with the IoT device.

Cloud Integration

Some IoT devices use cloud platforms for remote monitoring and control. Ensure that you properly connect your IoT device to its cloud service and that your Android app can communicate with the device through the cloud. Cloud integration is very important in API.

User Interface

Design a user-friendly interface in your Android app to control and monitor the IoT device. This could include features like real-time updates, notifications, and remote-control options.

Can I Use My Phone as an IoT?

Yes! Android provides robust support for IoT through various APIs and frameworks. You can connect Android devices to a wide range of IoT devices such as smart thermostats, lights, cameras, and more.

Is my Smartphone an IoT?

Yes! Your mobile phone is a prime example of an IoT device. It’s not just a phone for making calls; it’s a device that connects to the internet, interacts with various services, and can communicate with other smart devices. Whether you’re using it to control smart home devices or to track fitness, your mobile phone is a key player in the IoT ecosystem.

Can a Mobile Phone Help Controlling IoT Devices?

Yes! Your mobile phone can serve as a powerful remote control for a variety of IoT (Internet of Things) devices. The communication between your phone and the IoT devices occurs through wireless technologies. It adds a level of convenience and accessibility, as you can control and monitor your IoT devices from anywhere with an internet connection.