Radio Frequency IDentification and the Internet of Things

New, The second call 5 (framework 7 objective 1.3) information day took place on September 16, 2009 (presentations) (Closing date of call 5: October 26, 2009) (February 18, 2009 info day presentations.)

The European Commission has set up an informal working group (more information) on the implementation of the RFID Recommendation adopted on May 12th, 2009 (see library). Topics addressed by the working group are: Privacy and Data Protection Impact Assessment (PIA); security applications; information policy including logos; retail specific provisions; awareness raising; research and development.

Communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the EESC and the committee of the Regions: Internet of Things - An action plan for Europe (June 18 2009).

Information day on the Factories of the Future (July 13 2009 Brussels) calls also for IoT applications in manufacturing.

New in library: Prognosis of potential impacts of a mass use of RFID-Tags in the area of consumer products on the environment and waste management (German Federal Environmental Agency).

Internet of the Future and Internet of things: What is at stake and how are we getting prepared for them? (Speech, Oslo, September 2009)

Did you know that objects can identify themselves (RFID) and soon will be able to network (IoT)?

Take one example: a suitcase itself can indicate which plane it should be sent to. This is possible thanks to Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID). With RFID, more and more objects communicate with each other, slowly creating a network of information, a so-called "internet of things".

This network could potentially make our lives much easier… No need to worry about your suitcase being sent to the wrong plane anymore! But we must also be careful about how we use it, and avoid certain pitfalls.

Learn more about RFID and the Internet of Things

How does it work? How could it help? What kind of debates does it generate? Why and how can the EU help?

New (03/2009) RFID in Europe federating network
EU research efforts on RFID and Internet of Things (updated 03/2009)
Commission publishes website on the Internet of Things more
RFID Video
RFID Visit the Future