India had 13.47 crore machine-to-machine cellular connections at the end of June 2026, up from 13.11 crore a month earlier, according to TRAI data reported by our June report. These SIMs run devices rather than phones, such as trackers, meters and payment machines, and they are the clearest measure of the Internet of Things in India.
Market size figures for IoT vary widely and are often vendor estimates, so this guide sticks to what can be checked. Last checked: November 2, 2026.
What IoT means in everyday use
| Area | Examples |
|---|---|
| Payments | Card and QR machines using SIMs |
| Vehicles | GPS trackers and fleet systems |
| Utilities | Smart meters |
| Homes | CCTV, smart speakers, tags such as JioTag 2 |
| Factories | Sensors and edge AI cameras |
Consumer examples are reaching shops already. JioTag 2 is a low-cost tracker, and Netrasemi’s A2000 is an Indian chip aimed at smart cameras and robotics.
Security and rules
Connected devices can be a risk when their controls are exposed. MeitY’s action on e-rickshaw battery apps showed how a Bluetooth device can be abused. Change default passwords, keep firmware updated, and buy from known brands. Device SIMs also fall under KYC rules, so see our SIM rules guide.
Why this matters for mobile shops
Trackers, cameras and smart plugs are natural add-ons for shops, and often sell without much explanation. Stick to products with clear warranty and service support, and check that a device works on the customer’s network.
Frequently asked questions
How many IoT connections does India have?
Is my smart camera safe?
Correction (November 2, 2026): This guide has been rewritten. Earlier market size figures had no reliable source and have been removed.
