Trend Report: The most important IIoT Trends in 2025

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) remains a key driver of digital transformation in industry. Connected devices always form the basis here. The vast majority of new devices and solutions installed in 2024 will have “embedded Internet”. It has become clear that this transformation is and will remain essential for many industries. The resilience and innovative strength of the IIoT sector is particularly evident at a time when many industries are being challenged by the difficult economic situation. Long-term strategic planning and a consistent approach are paying off.

Many of the trends that we will see in this area in 2025 are already emerging today. Their importance will remain unbroken in the coming years - or even increase.

In this trend report, we provide an outlook on what we consider to be the most important developments that will shape IIoT in 2025: From AI-supported applications to the crucial role of 5G and cybersecurity to sustainable solutions and blockchain technologies.

Artificial intelligence: driving smart IIoT solutions

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to be a key factor in taking the efficiency of data utilization from IIoT environments to the next level. AI-supported predictive maintenance and monitoring solutions - such as those implemented by Kontron - optimize operations, reduce unplanned downtime and increase the service life of machines. The combination of machine learning and IoT data analysis shows that companies can not only monitor their systems, but also manage them intelligently. Incidentally, embedded Internet devices provide more than 70% of the data required for AI and are therefore an indispensable basis for its function.

AI will also be increasingly used in day-to-day operations in 2025. There are already tried-and-tested approaches in combination with existing systems for quality assurance and the cybersecurity of networked production systems. 

5G: High speed for the industry of tomorrow

5G is not called the nervous system of modern IIoT systems for nothing. With its high bandwidth, low latency and ability to connect millions of devices, 5G is indispensable for smart factories and autonomous machines. Kontron is actively driving this development, for example by setting up 5G module production in Europe to support customers locally and flexibly. More information on this initiative shows how important a robust 5G infrastructure is for future-proof IIoT applications. Applications such as remote monitoring and precise control of autonomous machines are only made possible by 5G.
 

Especially in IIoT, the local availability of 5G components is crucial to ensure security and performance. Companies should start preparing for the implementation of 5G networks now in order to strengthen their competitiveness and fully exploit the opportunities of the coming years.

Cybersecurity and NIS2: security remains the top priority

The security risks in the IIoT are increasing exponentially as connectivity grows. Securing IIoT environments will therefore be more of a focus than ever in 2025. The EU's NIS2 Directive, which places stricter requirements on cybersecurity, is becoming a challenge for many companies - and an opportunity to rethink their security strategies.

Critical infrastructures and industrial companies must rely on zero-trust approaches, encryption and real-time monitoring. With the Kontron susietec®® toolset, Kontron supports companies in integrating security solutions that not only meet current requirements, but also address future threats. The main aim here is to develop and implement feasible migration concepts for existing environments.

If you are looking for suitable holistic solution packages in this regard, it is worth taking a look at our comprehensive IoT bundles.

Sustainable IoT: sustainability as a strategic advantage

Sustainability will become a decisive factor in the IIoT in 2025. Companies are increasingly relying on energy-efficient IoT devices and resource-saving technologies to reduce costs and comply with environmental regulations. One practical example is the use of IIoT solutions in the circular economy: companies are using data to optimize the reuse of materials and reduce waste. Such initiatives are not only good for the environment, but also make economic sense.

IIoT applications that optimize energy consumption through smart metering or conserve resources through predictive maintenance, for example, help companies to achieve their sustainability goals. IIoT makes a measurable contribution to reducing emissions, particularly in industries with high energy requirements such as manufacturing or logistics.

Blockchain-backed IoT security: trust through transparency

Blockchain technology is increasingly seen as the key to secure IIoT networks. It offers tamper-proof data transmission and device authentication, significantly enhancing security in connected environments.

By integrating blockchain into IIoT environments, companies can ensure that data is immutably documented along the entire value chain. In combination with other security measures, blockchain will become an essential technology in 2025 to strengthen trust in IIoT systems and open up new business opportunities.

Result: The future is more connected than ever

The future of IIoT is characterized by groundbreaking technologies. Topics such as AI, 5G and cybersecurity remain as relevant as ever and are becoming even more important thanks to new technological advances. At the same time, sustainability and blockchain technologies are moving more into focus and opening up new perspectives for a secure and efficient industrial future.

Especially in economically challenging times, the IIoT sector shows that resilience and innovative strength are key drivers of success. Companies that pick up on these trends at an early stage secure decisive competitive advantages. With Kontron's expertise as an experienced, holistic partner and the benefits of the Kontron susietec®® toolset, you can set the course for a successful IIoT strategy. Are you ready? Then get in touch with us right away.