TOP Smart Cities Examples Around the World

Forget what you know about cities. Cities are no longer just places where we work, live, and play – they’re evolving into smart ecosystems that make life better for everyone.

Cities across the globe are evolving into intelligent, adaptive environments that are making urban living smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable. This transformation is happening in real-time, driven by IoT technologies that integrate seamlessly into our daily lives.

Imagine a city where traffic lights adjust to ease rush hour, air quality is always being checked, and services instantly adapt to your needs. It’s not the future – it’s happening now in cities like Singapore and Copenhagen.

Are you ready to explore how technology is reshaping our cities and improving our daily lives?

Keep reading to reveal main trends of changing the most dynamic urban landscapes across the globe and how they’re impacting the way we live.

The Concept of a Smart City

First of all, let’s determine what a smart city is. At its core, a smart city is an urban area that leverages technology, data, and IoT (Internet of Things) to create a more efficient, responsive, and sustainable environment for its citizens. This concept revolves around the seamless integration of digital infrastructure with daily urban operations, enabling cities to collect and analyze real-time data to make informed decisions.

Smart cities rely on a network of connected devices – like sensors, cameras, and meters – spread throughout the city. These devices continuously gather data on everything from traffic patterns to energy consumption, which is then analyzed and used to improve services.

Interesting fact! The total number of IoT-connected devices worldwide is projected to surpass 28.5 billion by 2029, with a large share contributing to smart city solutions (Fortune business insights)​.

The main pillars of Smart Cities:

1. Reliable Connectivity
   • Connectivity is the backbone of any smart city. It’s the link that connects streetlights, sensors, and systems, allowing them to work together. Technologies like LoRaWAN® make this possible by enabling sensors to send information across large areas without using much energy. This lets cities connect everything from streetlights to pollution monitors without breaking the bank.
2. Data That Drives Decisions
   • Smart cities run on data. By collecting real-time information from sensors and cameras, city managers get insights into what’s happening moment by moment. Whether it’s tracking air quality, managing traffic, or optimizing waste collection routes, this data helps leaders make smarter decisions that improve daily life and keep the city running smoothly.
3. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
   • Reducing energy use isn’t just good for the planet; it’s also cost-effective. Smart technologies allow cities to cut down on waste and use resources more efficiently. Take streetlights, for example: they can automatically dim when no one’s around, saving energy without impacting safety. With IoT-powered solutions, cities can easily monitor and reduce energy consumption, helping to make sustainability affordable and achievable.
4. Safety and Better Quality of Life
   • Public safety is a top priority, and IoT plays a big role here. Think of emergency response systems that use real-time traffic data to get first responders to an accident faster or smart lighting that makes neighborhoods safer at night. These solutions not only protect people but also enhance the overall quality of life by keeping city services responsive and effective.
5. Seamless Transportation
   • Getting around a busy city can be a challenge, and this is where IoT really shines. By connecting public transit, traffic lights, and parking spaces, cities can reduce traffic and make travel faster and easier. For example, traffic signals can adjust to reduce bottlenecks, while parking sensors help drivers find open spots more quickly. All of this adds up to less congestion and a smoother commute.
6. Open and Engaging City Services
   • A smart city isn’t just about technology; it’s about connecting with people. Open data platforms and apps help city residents stay informed and get involved. Whether it’s reporting a streetlight that’s out or participating in local decisions, these tools bring citizens closer to their community and make city life more engaging.

These pillars are what make a smart city functional, sustainable, and user-friendly. At TEKTELIC, we’re focused on providing the IoT technology that supports these goals, making it easier for cities to build connected, efficient urban spaces that enhance everyday life.

More information about the latest trends and innovations shaping urban development read the article “Exploring 2023’s Top Smart Cities and Trends“.

Key Smart City Challenges Pushing to Embrace IoT Technologies

Have you ever wondered what it takes to make a city truly “smart”? According to UN projections, the urban share of the world population is expected to reach around 6.4 billion (or 66%) by 2050​.

So, what does this mean for our cities?

In simple terms, urban areas will face more pressure than ever to keep things running smoothly. From managing traffic and reducing pollution to enhancing public safety, smart cities are turning to IoT to tackle these everyday challenges. Here’s a quick look at the top challenges cities face—and how IoT is stepping in to help.

Challenge	Problem	IoT Solution
Overpopulation and Urbanization	Strain on infrastructure and services due to rising urban populations.	IoT-based urban planning tools to optimize space usage, transport, and resource allocation.
Sustainability & Environmental Concerns	Need to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly practices.	Sensors for tracking pollution, smart waste management, and energy-efficient systems.
Energy Consumption	High energy demand and costly waste of resources.	Adaptive lighting and building systems that reduce energy use based on real-time data.
Public Safety	Greater need for quick responses to emergencies and incidents.	IoT-enabled surveillance and rapid response tools for real-time situational awareness.
Resource Management	Complex and costly management of water, electricity, and other public resources.	Real-time monitoring of usage, early leak detection, and conservation alerts.
Rising Citizen Expectations	Demand for efficient, responsive, and transparent city services.	Open data platforms, mobile apps, and citizen feedback channels to boost engagement.

Understanding the differences between smart and sustainable cities is essential for building the cities of tomorrow. Read the article: Smart And Sustainable Cities: Main Differences.

Real-World Smart City Deployments Using IoT Technology

Smart cities around the globe are utilizing LoRaWAN® and IoT technologies to improve both indoor and outdoor environments. These real-world deployments help optimize city services, increase sustainability, and improve the quality of life for residents.

According to the recent study (iot-analytics.com) the Top of Smart City use cases are:

For over 15 years, TEKTELIC has been a leader in providing scalable and reliable IoT infrastructure that powers smart city solutions worldwide. Our high-performance gateways and IoT products enable cities to deploy LoRaWAN® networks that drive operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality of life.

In this article, we have collected some of the most impactful real-world examples of IoT deployments for smart cities. Keep reading and explore how innovative technology is transforming urban environments.

1. Connected Streetlights

Traditional street lighting systems operate on static schedules, often running all night at full brightness regardless of real-time conditions. This approach wastes energy, incurs high maintenance costs, and provides no adaptability to changing environmental or human activity conditions. Smart street lighting solves these issues by using IoT smart sensors to adjust lighting levels dynamically based on real-time data, such as pedestrian activity, vehicle traffic, or even weather conditions.

How IoT Enhances Smart Street Lighting

IoT-enabled city lighting are equipped with sensors, communication devices, and control units that allow them to adapt to changing conditions. These systems can be integrated into the broader smart city infrastructure, linking to other systems like traffic management, environmental monitoring, and public safety networks.

• Motion and Occupancy Sensors: Smart streetlights use motion sensors to detect when pedestrians or vehicles are present. Lights brighten when activity is detected and dim or turn off when areas are empty, saving energy during periods of low traffic.
• Energy Efficiency: Smart lighting systems reduce energy consumption by up to 70% compared to traditional streetlights. By dimming lights when no activity is detected, or adjusting brightness according to ambient light conditions, these systems help cities cut down on electricity costs​.
• Remote Control and Automation: Smart streetlights can be controlled remotely, allowing city managers to adjust lighting schedules or respond to specific events.
• Integration with Other City Systems: Smart streetlights can be integrated with other city systems, such as emergency services or traffic management.

Real-World Use Cases

Location: Bosnia & Herzegovina

Products: KONA Macro IoT Gateway

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the city of Gradiska is demonstrating how IoT-powered smart lighting can enhance sustainability and public safety.

This innovative solution from TEKTELIC and UNIS Telekom is helping create a more efficient, adaptable street lighting by using the LoRaWAN network and equipping streetlights with KONA Micro gateways.

The deployment allows the lights to adjust based on real-time data, significantly cutting down on energy costs while enhancing the quality of urban life.

Key Features of the KONA Macro for Street Lighting:

• Long-Range Connectivity: These gateways provide city-wide coverage, allowing each light to be monitored and adjusted remotely.
• Low Power Consumption: Built for sustainability, these gateways operate on low power, aligning with eco-friendly goals.
• Reliable Data Transmission: With high-performance data relays, they ensure stable communication between the central control system and each light, supporting real-time adjustments and reporting.

TEKTELIC’s collaboration with UNIS Telekom in Gradiska brought a range of advantages for the city:

• Boosted Performance: The LoRaWAN network allows for real-time monitoring and control, improving the effectiveness and energy efficiency of public lighting.
• Cost Reduction: Smart lighting management has resulted in considerable cost savings for the city.
• Upgraded Public Services: Data-driven efficiencies have elevated the quality of public services in Gradiska.

This project illustrates the practical benefits of IoT in city infrastructure, providing Bosnia and Herzegovina with a sustainable lighting solution that’s both cost-effective and eco-friendly. It’s not just about cutting costs – the technology also makes the city safer, more responsive, and better-looking, highlighting how smart lighting can be a key part of today’s urban life.

“It was a pleasure working with TEKTELIC on the smart lighting solution in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Using their Carrier Grade KONA Macro gateways, we achieved seamless connectivity and real-time control of the city’s street lighting. This greatly improved the energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs. Plus, with fewer gateways needed to cover the same area, we anticipate significantly lower ongoing operating costs.”

Branko Senkic, Project manager at UNIS Telekom

2. Smart Metering

Smart metering plays a significant role in smart city infrastructure by providing real-time data on utility usage such as water, electricity, gas, and heat. Traditional utility meters require manual readings, which can be infrequent and inaccurate. In contrast, smart meters automatically collect and transmit consumption data, allowing for more efficient resource management, accurate billing, reduce percent of energy consumption and proactive maintenance.

How IoT Enhances Smart Metering

IoT-enabled smart meters are equipped with sensors and wireless communication technologies like LoRaWAN®, which provide long-range, low-power connectivity. These meters monitor utility consumption and transmit real-time data to utility providers, helping optimize energy, water, and gas distribution.

• Real-Time Data: Smart meters continuously track utility usage, sending real-time consumption data to utility management systems. This enables more accurate billing, prevents meter tampering, and allows consumers to adjust their usage based on the insights provided.
• Dynamic Pricing: IoT-powered smart meters enable dynamic pricing models, where utility costs fluctuate based on real-time demand. This helps reduce consumption during peak hours and encourages energy savings by charging less during off-peak times​.
• Operational Savings: Automated meter readings and reduced need for manual inspections help utility providers save on operational costs, leading to more efficient management and reduced expenses overall.

Real-World Use Cases

Location: Lithuania

Products: KONA Macro IoT Gateway

A prime example of smart city innovation can be seen in a recent deployment in Lithuania, where TEKTELIC’s LoRaWAN® gateways were used to create a fully connected urban environment in Kaunas. This project leverages TEKTELIC’s KONA Macro IoT gateways to create a cohesive network for smart lighting, environmental monitoring, and waste management, making Kaunas a model of efficient and sustainable urban living.

Key Features of the Smart Metering Project:

1. Real-Time Data Collection
   With TEKTELIC’s KONA Macro Gateway, Kaunas has deployed smart meters to monitor water, gas, and electricity usage in real time. This constant flow of data helps city officials track consumption patterns accurately, allowing for timely adjustments and reducing waste.
2. Improved Billing Accuracy
   By collecting real-time data, the smart meters in Kaunas ensure that utility billing is based on precise, up-to-date consumption figures. This transparency improves trust with residents and reduces billing disputes, enhancing the overall service experience and advanced economy.
3. Proactive Maintenance
   The smart metering system can identify infrastructure issues, such as leaks or meter malfunctions, before they escalate. This proactive maintenance approach minimizes costly repairs and extends the lifespan of city infrastructure.

The smart metering project in Kaunas demonstrates how IoT can transform urban resource management, making cities more efficient, transparent, and sustainable. This project not only benefits residents with fairer services and improved reliability but also aligns with Kaunas’s long-term commitment to sustainability, setting an inspiring model for other cities to follow in adopting smart metering for a greener, more efficient future.

More benefits of this solution you can find in the article “Lithuanian City Utilizing Iot & Lora To Join The Smart City Movement“.

3. Urban Agriculture in Smart Cities

IoT smart city technologies are transforming how urban agriculture operates, making it more efficient, sustainable, and scalable. The integration of smart technology allows cities to optimize resource use, reduce waste, and ensure that urban farms and gardens contribute meaningfully to food security and environmental sustainability.

Smart cities are leveraging IoT technologies to enhance urban agriculture, using sensors and data to monitor growing conditions and automate key processes. This not only boosts production but also reduces the resource intensity of urban farming.

How IoT Enhances Urban Agriculture

IoT technologies, such as sensors, drones, and data analytics platforms, are used to optimize various aspects of urban agriculture. From monitoring soil moisture to automating irrigation systems, these technologies help urban farms operate efficiently while minimizing water and energy use.

• Soil and Climate Monitoring: IoT sensors embedded in urban farms or community gardens can continuously monitor soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels. This data helps farmers make informed decisions about watering schedules, fertilization, and planting cycles​.
• Automated Irrigation Systems: Smart irrigation systems use real-time data to water plants only when necessary, conserving water and ensuring that crops receive the optimal amount of hydration. These systems can also adapt to weather forecasts, reducing water use on rainy days.

Real-World Use Cases

Location: Italy, Rome

Products: KIWI Agricultural sensor

The next great example of TEKTELIC’s technology being put to use can be seen at The Botanical Garden of Rome. The garden, home to over 300 plant species, faced the challenge of optimizing soil and environmental conditions to ensure healthy growth. In collaboration with Unidata and La Sapienza University, they deployed a range of LoRaWAN®-based IoT sensors, including TEKTELIC’s KIWI Agricultural sensor, to monitor vital environmental data like soil moisture, temperature, and light intensity.

The KIWI sensor offers a variety of key features, including:

• soil moisture monitoring for precise water management.
• temperature and light intensity sensing to optimize growing conditions.
• long battery life for low maintenance.
• a compact and rugged design for durability.
• seamless integration with LoRaWAN networks for reliable long-distance data transmission.

This real-time data allowed the garden to precisely manage water and monitor plant health, leading to more efficient operations and healthier plants across the board.

4. Connected Public Transport

Connected public transport is a key component of smart cities, that optimize city functions by utilizing IoT and real-time data to enhance efficiency, safety, and convenience for commuters. By integrating technologies such as GPS, sensors, and wireless communication, public transport systems can operate more effectively, providing up-to-the-minute updates and streamlined operations.

Key Features of Connected Public Transport:

• Real-Time Tracking: IoT-enabled vehicles, such as buses and trains, are equipped with GPS and tracking systems that provide live updates on arrival times and current locations via mobile apps or digital boards at stations.
• Optimized Routes: Data collected from IoT devices helps transport authorities adjust routes and schedules based on traffic patterns, passenger demand, and road conditions. This reduces delays and improves overall service reliability.
• Smart Ticketing: Contactless and digital ticketing systems are integrated with IoT networks, allowing passengers to pay for their journeys easily through mobile apps, cards, or wearables, reducing the need for physical tickets and improving boarding efficiency.

Increased Safety: Connected public transport systems monitor vehicle performance, driver behavior, and track accidents or breakdowns in real time. This ensures that necessary maintenance or adjustments are made proactively, enhancing passenger safety.

Real-World Use Cases

Location: Switzerland

Products: KONA Macro Gateway & KONA Micro Gateway

An excellent example of connected public transport enhancing tourism can be seen in Switzerland with the iParkiere Bus project. Developed by Arcade Solutions AG in collaboration with TEKTELIC, this smart transport initiative leverages LoRaWAN® technology to simplify bus parking and navigation for tourism coaches. These devices integrated with city infrastructure to deliver updates on local attractions, events, and public transport options.

This seamless experience is made possible by a mix of advanced devices:

• KONA Macro Gateway: A robust outdoor solution offering reliable long-range connectivity.
• KONA Micro Gateway: Ensures uninterrupted service with a backup battery, even during power outages.
• LoRaWAN® sensors: Installed in parking spaces to monitor availability in real time.

Benefits:

• Efficiency: Reduces delays and optimizes routes, improving overall transport management.
• Enhanced Passenger Experience: Real-time updates and seamless payment options provide convenience for passengers.
• Sustainability: By minimizing idle times and optimizing routes, connected transport helps reduce emissions and contributes to eco-friendly urban environments.

With these tools, the system provides real-time parking updates and guides coach drivers to the best available spots. The outcome? Reduced traffic, enhanced tourist flow, and a smoother, smarter city experience for all. This project illustrates how IoT-driven public transport solutions are making tourism-friendly cities more efficient and enjoyable.​

Smart, efficient, and tourist-friendly—this is the future of connected public transport!

5. Smart Parking Solutions

Smart parking is transforming urban mobility by providing real-time data on parking space availability, reducing congestion, and improving the overall driving experience in cities. Traditional parking systems can lead to inefficiencies, with drivers spending an average of 20 minutes searching for a spot, which contributes to traffic and fuel waste. In contrast, smart parking solutions automatically monitor available spaces and guide drivers in real-time to the nearest spot, leading to reduced congestion and lower emissions.

How IoT Enhances Smart Parking Solutions

IoT-enabled parking sensors use technologies like magnetic field detection and infrared sensors to detect vehicle presence. These sensors relay real-time data to centralized systems, providing drivers and city management with valuable insights on parking availability.

• Real-Time Data: Sensors track parking space occupancy and send this data to apps or digital signs, helping drivers find open spots faster. This reduces the time spent circling for parking, easing traffic congestion.
• Dynamic Pricing: Cities can implement dynamic pricing models, adjusting parking fees based on demand. For example, higher rates during peak hours and lower rates during off-peak times encourage better space utilization and reduce congestion in high-demand areas.
• Operational Savings: Automating the parking process eliminates the need for manual checks, leading to reduced operational costs. Smart parking systems also improve enforcement, with automated systems detecting unauthorized parking.

Key Benefits of IoT Deployment for Smart Cities

The deployment of IoT technology in smart cities brings numerous benefits, revolutionizing urban infrastructure, improving public services, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Resource Efficiency: IoT monitors and optimizes energy, water, and waste management, reducing waste and cutting operational costs.
2. Public Safety: IoT enables faster incident detection through real-time surveillance and connected emergency systems.
3. Traffic Management: IoT-powered systems improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance public transport.
4. Sustainability: IoT contributes to environmental goals by reducing emissions and promoting efficient resource use.
5. Cost Savings: Real-time data and predictive maintenance lower manual intervention needs, reducing costs.
6. Data-Driven Decisions: Cities use IoT data for smarter urban planning and better service delivery.
7. Enhanced Quality of Life: IoT reduces traffic, improves air quality, and optimizes public services, making cities more livable and enhancing sustainable development goals.

Our experts have crafted the ultimate guide to make your choice easy—check it out in the article “How to Choose the Right Industrial IoT Gateway: 16 Answers to Help You Pick the Best Option“

Conclusion

Smart cities represent the future of urban living, offering a blend of technology, efficiency, and sustainability that addresses the evolving challenges of modern cities and deploying smart infrastructure. Through IoT solutions like smart meters, smart street lighting, and predictive waste management, cities are becoming more connected, resource-efficient, and environmentally responsible. TEKTELIC play a vital role in helping urban planners and decision-makers implement the best solutions for their communities.

So, what smart solutions would you like to see implemented in your city, and how do you think they could improve your daily life?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a smart city with an example?

A smart city is a city that utilizes technology and data to enhance the quality of life for its residents. An example of a smart city is Singapore, where they use sensors and data analysis to improve transportation, energy efficiency, and public safety.

What is considered a smart city?

A smart city is a city that integrates technology, data, and connectivity to improve efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents. This includes using sensors, IoT devices, and data analytics to optimize various aspects of city living.

What is IoT in smart city?

IoT in smart cities uses connected devices and sensors to gather real-time data, optimizing services like traffic, energy, waste, and safety. Smart streetlights adjust brightness based on activity, and smart meters track utility usage for accurate billing. This enhances city efficiency and sustainability. If you’re unsure how to start with IoT, TEKTELIC experts can guide you in finding the right solution for your city’s needs.

Is there a list of smart cities?

Yes, there are lists of smart cities around the world. Organizations like the Smart Cities Council and the International Data Corporation (IDC) publish lists of smart cities based on their use of technology and data to improve urban living. These lists showcase cities like Barcelona, Tokyo, and Amsterdam as leading examples of smart city initiatives.