Imagine a world where your toothbrush talks to your coffee maker, your fridge orders groceries, and your socks track your steps. Welcome to the realm of connected products, where the Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing our daily lives. At ThingsCon 2015, held in Berlin, Germany, the European hardware startup scene gathered to explore the challenges and opportunities of this rapidly evolving landscape.
Unraveling the Enigma of Connected Product Design
Warren Ellis, the renowned comic book writer and scriptwriter, took the stage with a keynote address that left attendees both entertained and enlightened. Ellis delved into the intricacies of modern connected-product design, emphasizing the importance of understanding consumer behavior and expectations. He cautioned against the potential pitfalls of commercial success, including customer support nightmares and the jarring transition from a humble “Maker” to an “Internet multimillionaire.”
Crowdfunding Conundrums: Navigating the Kickstarter Maze
Tina Aspö, a seasoned product designer and Kickstarter patron, shared her experiences and observations from the world of crowdfunding platforms. Aspö shed light on the challenges faced by Kickstarter projects, from fraudulent practices to the difficulties in transitioning from prototypes to manufacturing. She also addressed the curious phenomenon of “gonzo products,” those quirky creations that may have limited utility but capture the imagination of backers.
The “IoT Design Manifesto”: A Call to Action for Responsible Innovation
ThingsCon witnessed the unveiling of the “IoT Design Manifesto,” a thought-provoking document that tackles the ethical, social, and environmental implications of IoT development. The manifesto emphasizes the need for skepticism, participation, security, privacy, data collection, personal agency, sustainability, and humanity in the context of IoT. It serves as a rallying cry for designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs to confront these challenges and create connected products that truly benefit society.
Bruce Sterling’s Casa Jasmina: An Invitation to Collaborate
Bruce Sterling, the renowned science fiction author and visionary, expressed his admiration for the “IoT Design Manifesto” and its authors. He shared his involvement in the Casa Jasmina project, an Internet-of-Things house, and invited attendees to contribute their expertise and ideas to the project. Sterling recognized the potential of the “new hardware movement” and its dedicated community, emphasizing the importance of understanding and catering to their needs for the success of Casa Jasmina.
Bonus: As we embrace the era of connected products, it’s essential to remember the human element. Technology should enhance our lives, not enslave us. Let’s strive to create connected products that are not just smart, but also empathetic, ethical, and sustainable. In the words of Bruce Sterling, “The future is not just about technology. It’s about people.”
ThingsCon 2015 served as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the European hardware startup scene. The conference provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of connected product design, while also inspiring attendees to think critically about the ethical and social implications of IoT development. As the IoT continues to evolve, ThingsCon remains a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the transformative potential of technology when used responsibly and creatively.
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