From smart salt shakers to selfie toasters, IoT devices are transforming everyday objects, blending technology with daily life and opening new opportunities for businesses.The Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping everyday life with devices like smart salt shakers and selfie toasters. These quirky gadgets, while seemingly unconventional, highlight the growing integration of technology into daily routines. As IoT adoption accelerates, businesses are exploring how these innovations can enhance consumer experiences and create new revenue streams.The rise of quirky IoT devicesFrom smart salt shakers to selfie toasters, the Internet of Things (IoT) is bringing a wave of innovation to everyday objects. These devices, often dismissed as gimmicks, are part of a broader trend of integrating technology into daily life. According to a recent report by Gartner, the number of connected IoT devices is expected to reach 25 billion by 2025, up from 14.2 billion in 2021.Smart salt shakers: A pinch of innovationOne of the latest additions to the IoT ecosystem is the smart salt shaker. Developed by a startup called Salinity, this device connects to a smartphone app to track salt intake and provide dietary recommendations. The company announced the product at CES 2023, where it garnered significant attention for its unique approach to health monitoring.Selfie toasters: Breakfast with a twistAnother standout IoT device is the selfie toaster, which allows users to imprint their favorite images onto their morning toast. Created by Toasteroid, this gadget syncs with a mobile app to upload photos and customize toasting patterns. The company showcased the product at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where it became a viral sensation.Driving consumer engagementWhile these devices may seem frivolous, they represent a growing trend of using IoT to enhance consumer engagement. According to a McKinsey report, IoT-enabled products can increase customer loyalty by offering personalized experiences. For example, the smart salt shaker not only tracks salt intake but also suggests recipes based on dietary preferences.Challenges and opportunitiesDespite their potential, IoT devices face challenges such as data privacy concerns and high production costs. However, businesses are finding ways to overcome these hurdles by leveraging cloud computing and advanced analytics. As IoT adoption continues to grow, these quirky gadgets could pave the way for more practical and impactful innovations. https://redrobot.online/2025/03/smart-salt-shakers-and-selfie-toasters-the-rise-of-quirky-iot-devices/