IoT (Internet of Things)...

I personally never liked them. You give to much control to the manufacturer, and most of the internet functionality is not that useful (mostly being remote access). And they are also targets for cyberattacks (from what i read, usually used to make them part of botnets).

This doesn't mean that they are useless. Just...the way they are developed and released makes me despise them.

They can be made better by making the Internet centric functionality optional and non-intrusive. And also offering to the end-user guides on how to maintain them (both hardware and software), when they are discontinued. Also, making the devices as privacy-friendly as possible, but that is to much to ask for these days, due to how selling your data is a way to make some money, and these IoT devices are usually quick-to-market products for a quick cash grab.

Been thinking personally on how to design the optimal IoT device, since just complaining gets nothing done. With that in mind, i came to the following things to keep in mind for developing one:

• The hardware must be something that is readily available, affordable, easy to replace and service.
• The software must be developed with FOSS/FLOSS components, that are fully free and open source. This is not for charity, but to keep it running, even when it gets discontinued. Also shows to people, that your product is trustworthy, by being transparent.
• Keep the Internet-centric functions optional, and make them actually provide value to the end-user.
• Not requiring a smartphone app for using it (THIS is my biggest gripe). And if an external user interface is needed, please, stop requiring the user to create a account on their device.