The growth of smart cities & their future

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As technology has evolved, so, too, has the Internet of Things (IoT). Devices nowadays connect to the web, and in a sense, they’re all connected to each other: phones, computers, smart home devices. All of these devices connect to the Internet and constantly send and receive information.

Cities are no exception. Data collection represents a major part of the tech industry. Are there better ways to collect data and improve the lives of citizens than implementing tech into the city itself? Budapest and other Hungarian cities are on their way to becoming smart cities, but what does this mean for their citizens?

Well, while there are benefits, there are also plenty of issues to discuss. Let’s start by talking about the benefits of smart cities.

The Benefits Smart Cities Bring to Citizens

One benefit of converting a regular city into a smart city is the increase in quality of life for its citizens. Smart cities across the globe share some similar initiatives, such as establishing city-wide public Wi-Fi hotspots, areas to charge electric cars, and other projects that are not only innovative, but helpful to the populace. In Hungary, efforts are invested in building an intelligent transport system and launching an effective 5G network.

Also, smart cities often leave smaller environmental footprints than regular cities. Combating climate change is an important part of the 2020’s, so leaving smaller footprints is a noticeable improvement.

Businesses flock to cities they deem sufficient, and smart cities have a track record of investing in smart cities and doing business inside them. This means more money for the city, which means more funds for projects and improvements to the quality of life of citizens.

Smart city initiatives and policies may seem small at first (going green, using smart traffic lights, installing cameras on streets), but the idea is to build upon them over time in order to benefit citizens.

Hungary is leading the smart city push right now, and that push will only grow stronger.

The Privacy Concerns Surrounding Smart Cities

However, smart cities face resistance against citizens aware of the privacy risks surrounding the concept.

As cities inch closer to becoming smart cities, the privacy of citizens decreases. Why? Well, there are a few reasons. For one, smart cities may use the risk of crime as a way to set up smart cameras, sensors, and other pieces of technology that can spy on citizens.