Symbiotic low-power, smart and secure technologies in the age of hyperconnectivity

In the hyperconnectivity era, the relational-self [1], whose identity is based on the condition of plurality, becomes the symbolic representation of humanness in the world. Enabled by the convergence of miniaturization, wireless connectivity, increased data-storage and data analytics, the Internet-of-Things is at the epicenter of this profound revolution. In this paper, we will present the disruptive technologies that build the hyperconnectivity value chain (i.e. sensing, communication, computing and storage, energy harvesting, security, services). We will focus on the need for energy efficiency, added-value to the users, simplicity in new services, and trustworthiness. We will show that a human-centered research approach and symbiotic development strategies along different technological axes lead to key innovations, able to respond to both growing individual needs and global societal challenges. Finally, biomimicry will be introduced as a possible new inspirational paradigm to design future cyber-physical systems.