There are millions of devices currently connected to the Internet, ranging from mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, to laptops. But a report from the GSMA industry association reveals that this trend will soon be replaced by more devices that have the capability to connect to the Internet such as home automation devices, wearable tech, and of course, vehicles.

The report stated that about 40 percent of mobile operators from around the world offer machine-to-machine services, and its growing 38 percent every year since 2010.  As such, it can be expected that the growth will open up new opportunities for players in the connected industry.

“We are now living in a world where every device, machine or appliance can be wirelessly connected to the Internet, providing a wealth of real-time information,” Hyunmi Yang, the GSMA’s chief strategy officer, said. “There is an opportunity for mobile operators to add value far beyond connectivity, by developing M2M capabilities that reduce fragmentation and stimulate new services.”

And one of the fastest-growing aspects of the connected market is the automotive industry with its offerings of in-car Internet access, real-time traffic monitoring, and pay-as-you-drive insurance, to name a few.

With that said, let’s look at what the connected car market has in store for us in this week’s SmartCar roundup.

Truvolo

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This little device that connects to your car’s standard diagnostic port aims to make drivers more efficient and smarter by providing information about gas mileage, which can be sorted out into business and personal use, know why the check engine light is on, and know when your car needs servicing even before it needs it. Truvolo also provides gas level indicators and warnings, and scores your driving style so you can improve upon it to maximize your mileage.

Not only that, Truvolo can also send out alerts for unsafe driving, and for when the car reaches its destination.  This bit of information is something parents with hormonal teens can be thankful for as they get alerted when their kid gets to school or to their friend’s house.  Alerts for unsafe driving can give parents an idea if their kid is drunk driving or if there’s something wrong with the driver, so they can immediately spring into action to prevent an accident.

For now, though the Truvolo promises safe and efficient driving, it’s still a crowdfunded project in need of backers.

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Smart spots

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One of the perks of owning a smart car, a really compact car, is that you find a parking space almost anywhere easily.  But as more people are now interested in these smart cars, finding a spot can now be trickier.  Thanks to HubStrategy, finding a parking spot for your smart car is as easy as using an app.

HubStrategy developed smart spots, an app that helps smart car owners find small parking spaces with the help of the smart car community.  Aside from the smart car community, it also uses GPS to help you find those sweet spots for your sweet ride.  And if you find a spot not in the map, you can drop a pin in the map so other smart car owners can find the spot.

The downside to this app is that it’s only currently available in San Francisco.