In 2017, the number of IoT devices surpassed the world’s population at 8.4B, reaching $2T in spending. Gartner estimates we’ll reach 20.4B “connect things” by 2020, making it currently one of the fastest growing industries. Thanks to advanced analytics, integrated applications and emerging 5G network capacities, it’s easier than ever to connect anywhere but it’s still early days in the connected revolution. Over the next 5-10 years new markets / businesses will emerge in the race to connect everything to everyone. Panelists will discuss which aspects of the human experience can be connected next through tech advancements, where the largest investment opportunities lie in this increasingly-connected world, and what tech solutions startups need to focus on in order to garner VC interest.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.