Connected Living 2030: The Technology that Will Power the Future of Smart Cities

 

How is technology transforming to meet the future of smart cities head-on?

Helsinki, Riyadh, and Shanghai offer a glimpse into this evolution, each adopting unique strategies powered by cutting-edge technology. Helsinki’s smart city blueprint intertwines technological innovation with societal and environmental objectives, creating a hub for collaborative innovation. Riyadh’s ambitious project, a partnership between KAFD DMC and SCAI, focuses on smart traffic management and mobility to enhance efficiency and operational effectiveness. And Shanghai utilizes an e-government portal that gives its residents online access to more than 100 services.

This shift towards inclusive urban development emphasizes the need for equal access to city services and decision-making for all residents. These cities exemplify a global trend towards data-driven, citizen-centric urban environments, heralding a future where cities are smarter, more sustainable, and more inclusive.

What technologies and strategies are pivotal in shaping the future of smart cities by 2030, and how are global leaders in urban development paving the way?

In this episode of Experts Talk, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B, got answers on the leading tech trends bolstering connected living and smart cities with his panel of industry experts. Davide Pascucci, the Founder & CEO of Bright IIoT; Joel Polanco, the Healthcare/Education/Retail Segment Manager at Intel; Tod Caflisch, the Smart Solutions Tech Strategist at Lumen Technologies; and Markus Nispel, the CTO of EMEA at Extreme Networks explored the foundational technologies and strategies essential for the future of smart cities.

Main Points of Discussion:

  • How IoT and AI are crucial in creating interconnected and efficient urban spaces
  • The need for robust digital infrastructure to support the data-rich environment of smart cities
  • The importance of public involvement and open data access in the development of smart city solutions

An innovator in the field of IoT, Davide Pascucci brings a wealth of experience in developing smart solutions that integrate technology seamlessly into everyday life. His visionary approach has positioned him as a thought leader in IoT applications, driving the conversation on how technology can enhance urban living.

With a diverse background spanning healthcare, education, and retail, Joel Polanco offers a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and various industry sectors. His insights reflect a deep understanding of how technological advancements can transform businesses and the broader societal landscape.

A strategist with a keen eye for emerging technologies, Tod Caflisch excels in identifying and implementing innovative solutions. His expertise lies in navigating the complexities of tech integration, focusing on how strategic tech deployment can lead to more efficient and smarter urban environments.

As a technology officer focusing on the EMEA region, Markus Nispel brings an international viewpoint to the discussion. His expertise in network infrastructure and digital transformation provides a comprehensive look at how different areas approach the challenges and opportunities of building smart cities.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Image

Latest

comedy
Laughter as a Service: How Comedy Can Power Trust, Teamwork, and Career Growth
February 19, 2026

Comedy might be the most underused business skill in your toolkit… In a world of back-to-back Zoom calls, Slack threads, and AI-generated everything, real human connection can start to feel like an afterthought. We’re moving faster than ever, but sometimes we’re listening less, reacting more, and missing the small moments that actually build trust. The…

Read More
founder-led brand
The Art of Evolution: Leading a Founder-Led Brand Into Its Next Chapter with Mary Beth Sheridan
February 19, 2026

For many retail brands, growth today isn’t just about innovation — it’s about keeping pace with customers whose expectations are evolving in real time, led by younger generations who expect brands to reflect their values and show up with cultural relevance. In fact, recent research from MG2 found that the overwhelming majority of Gen Z…

Read More
computer vision
Censis’ Final Check Uses Computer Vision to Eliminate Tray Errors Before They Reach the OR
February 19, 2026

Artificial intelligence used to live in strategy decks and conference keynotes—but now it’s showing up in a very different place: right on the assembly tables where SPD technicians build trays for the next case. And it’s arriving at a time when the pressure on sterile processing has never been higher. As surgical volumes climb and…

Read More
Scaling AI
QumulusAI Provides A Clear Roadmap for Scaling AI Platforms to Thousands of Users
February 18, 2026

Scaling AI platforms can raise questions about how to expand across locations and support higher user volumes. Growth often requires deployments in multiple data centers and regions. Mazda Marvasti, the CEO of Amberd, says having a clear path to scale is what excites him most about the company’s current direction. He notes that expanding…

Read More