Google Cloud has announced the closure of its IoT Core system, with users being told to switch to the company’s partners to manage their connected devices.
A brief notice on the IoT Core website says the service “will be retired” on 16 August 2023.
What is Google Cloud IoT Core?
Launched in 2017 and made generally available to Google Cloud users the following year, IoT Core is Google’s platform for managing Internet of Things-connected devices.
When the service debuted, Google said it was designed to target smart city and enterprise deployments in industries such as utilities, transportation and oil and gas.
As well as allowing the management of devices, IoT Core enabled users to sift and analyse data generated by these devices, working in conjunction with other Google Cloud services.
Google Cloud is the third biggest player in the public cloud market. Data from Synergy Research Group shows that in the second quarter of 2022 it had a 10% share of the public cloud market, trailing behind Amazon's AWS – the market leader – and Microsoft Azure. Both its rivals have active IoT management platforms.
Why is Google Cloud retiring IoT Core?
The number of IoT devices on the market is growing rapidly and is expected to rise from 12.2 billion last year to 27 billion in 2025, according to research from IoT Analytics. So it would seem a strange time for Google to close a service aimed at this fast-growing market.
Tech Monitor has contacted Google Cloud for comment on the decision, but a company spokesperson quoted by Tech Crunch said: "Since launching IoT Core, it has become clear that our customers’ needs could be better served by our network of partners that specialise in IoT applications and services.
"We have worked extensively to provide customers with migration options and solution alternatives and are providing a year-long runway before IoT Core is discontinued."
What should IoT Core customers do now?
In an email to users, Google Cloud said customers who use IoT Core should switch over to one of its specialist IoT partners.
"We recommend that you take action early to migrate from IoT Core to an alternative service," the email says. "As an initial step, connect with your Google Cloud account manager if you have questions about your migration plans. Your account manager can also help you learn more about Google Cloud partners that offer alternative IoT technology or implementation services that meet your business requirements."
It adds that the company will "continue to reach out with additional information to support you during your migration".
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