China sets up first state-level IOT alliance

Chinese enterprises and research institutions on Thursday established the country's first state-level industrial alliance for the Internet of Things (IOT).

IOT refers to digital networks of physical objects that are linked by the Internet and interact through web services. Everyday goods will be connected to the Internet and be identified by other devices.

Launched by the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation, the alliance will conduct research on IOT polices, technologies and industrial development, as well as promote innovation and provide public services.

The alliance covers 40 companies and institutions including China Telecom and Tsinghua University.

The alliance will also look at building industrial parks that feature IOT technologies and setting up an investment foundation. Protection of personal information will also be studied.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has publicized a guideline that the country will make at least 200 national and industrial standards for the IOT by 2015.

The application of IOT technologies will be expanded and deepened for both economic and social development in nine fields, including agriculture, logistics, transport, electricity and environmental protection.