It is easy to use the terms smart and connected
interchangeably, but the truth is they are not exactly the same
thing.
Connected devices have
ports, antennae, and protocols that facilitate communication
between a product and its operating environment. A connected
device can share data directly with other devices or over a
network. The data transmission can be one way or two way. Some
wireless home speakers are solely connected, allowing you to
play music from your smartphone via Bluetooth connection.
A smart device
typically has an operating system that will let you connect with
other information services, entertainment services or apps. For
example a smart phone allows you to browse the internet and make
calls, but it also lets you connect to apps. Smart thermostats
are intelligent because they can make calculated decisions based
on other system components, such as the owner's previous room
temperature adjustments, built-in algorithms, and sensors.