Modern Australian
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 4:05:16 AM
Men's Weekly

.

Can the IoT Help You Cook Chicken?

  • Written by Bridget Black

A strange question, to be sure, but can the Internet of Things help you cook chicken?

KFC Australia certainly seems to think so, with the fast food chain recently announcing that they are set to outfit their kitchens with a wide range of data-gathering devices to improve operational efficiency. But what is the IoT and how can it help both individuals and businesses reach their goals? Read on to find out!

What is the Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things is a term used to describe the vast web of interconnected devices that have the ability to ‘communicate’ with each other. The word communicate is used loosely here — by it, we mean sharing data.

The rise of the Internet of Things — or IoT — has been facilitated by the development of tiny computer chips. Gone are the days of super large desktop computers slowly connecting to the internet via thick cables. Today, any type of electronic device can be hooked up to the world wide web wirelessly.

This has led to the development of a range of products designed to make our everyday lives easier. IoT devices are those that are commonly termed ‘smart’ — smart watches, smart hubs, and smart homes. The reason these devices are termed ‘smart’ is that they possess the capability to consume, share, and learn from our data.

IoT devices are loaded with sensors that are able to consume vast amounts of information. This can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, a driverless truck will rely on motion sensors to interpret the surrounding environment and any upcoming obstacles. On the other hand, IoT technology can also be used to create interactive, immersive gaming experiences. The very popular mobile app Pokemon Go used a combination of IoT and VR technologies with great success.

As you can see, the capabilities of IoT technology means it can be applied across a wide range of industries — including, as KFC announced recently, fast food!

Applications of the Internet of Things

As one of the world’s most popular fast food chains, KFC is always looking for ways to improve their products and services. In order to improve something, you have to understand how it works, which is where the Internet of Things enters the picture.

KFC Australia recently announced plans to outfit their kitchens with a range of tracking devices. These devices — which include temperature and garbage bin sensors — will collect valuable data that can help in-store managers make smart decisions regarding staff and rostering.

A garbage bin sensor, for example, can alert team members if the bin is getting too full or hasn’t been emptied within a specific time frame.

While these may seem like small, inconsequential actions, they can have a significant effect on the overall efficiency of a kitchen, particularly when operating in a frenetic, fast-food environment.

However, KFC and other similar companies would do well to remember that all types of data is valuable and should be protected — whether it is someone’s credit card number or the average temperature of a cooked piece of chicken.

Protecting your personal data in an interconnected world

Despite the numerous advantages offered by these emerging forms of technology, Internet of Things security remains a top concern for cybersecurity experts and everyday tech users.

Our personal data is valuable, a fact that we often take for granted. While we might provide our full name, date of birth, and contact information to any company that asks, it’s important to remember that there are people out there who don’t have the best of intentions. Hackers and cybercriminals are always looking for security vulnerabilities they can exploit to get their hands on personal information.

And once they have that information? They are likely to either use it for their own benefit (by opening credit card accounts and taking out loans in your name) or sell it on the dark web.

But what does this have to do with the Internet of Things? Well, the unfortunate reality is that the IoT manufacturer market is not very well relegated. While you may be able to trust larger tech companies, like Google and Apple, to securely store your data (whether you want them to have your data at all is another question!), smaller businesses who are focused only on making a profit may not be implementing the best security practices to safeguard your information. In fact, some of these companies may just be blindly selling your information onto third parties for advertising purposes.

And it’s not just individuals who should be concerned. The kind of data that KFC is collecting could be very valuable to their competitors and should be therefore safeguarded using the strongest security measures possible.

With this in mind, follow these tips to keep your personal data safe in an interconnected world:

  • Password protect everything: Many personal IoT devices require you to download an accompanying app and create an account. Be sure to protect this account with a strong, unique password and set up two-factor authentication wherever possible.

  • Use a strong encryption method for your home Wi-Fi: One way that hackers attempt to infiltrate devices is through a home router. Be sure that you set your router up with strong security measures, including the best encryption method possible.

  • Check device settings: If you’re introducing a new device into your home, it’s a good idea that you check the settings before connecting it to your Wi-Fi network. Make sure you understand what kind of data requires to function and that you know where that data is being stored.

  • Update your devices: Many device manufacturers release updates that are designed to patch security flaws and bugs. Be sure that you check for these updates regularly and download them as soon as they become available.

So, can the IoT help you cook chicken? Absolutely. Just make sure you fully understand what information it needs to help you complete this task and who else has access to your data. A streamlined life might be nice, but not at the cost of your personal privacy.


Author Bio: Bridget Black is a writer and editor, currently living in Melbourne. She is a copywriter for Newpath Web and loves working with words of all shapes and sizes. When not playing around with punctuation and grammar, she enjoys travelling and curating her Spotify playlists.

Keeping Lone and Remote Workers Safe: Employer Duties and Practical Solutions

In Australia, thousands of employees work alone, in remote locations, or in direct contact with the public every day. While these roles are critical...

How Your General Dentist Supports Your Smile Over a Lifetime

A healthy grin is more than just a desirable feature; it reflects overall health, well-being, and self-esteem. Our oral health needs evolve from chi...

A Brighter Smile in Sydney: Expert Cosmetic Dentists and Veneers Solutions

A confident smile can open doors, boost your self-esteem, and leave a lasting impression. In Sydney, more people than ever are turning to cosmetic den...

How To Keep Vase Flowers Fresh Through Australia’s Coldest Months

Winter flowers develop slowly, which gives them stronger structure and longer vase life Heat from indoor environments is the biggest threat to th...

Artificial Intelligence is Powering the Growth of Australian Telehealth Services

Many Australians have traditionally experienced difficulties in accessing timely and quality healthcare, especially those who live in rural or remot...

VR Training in Australia – Customer Service Risk Management

In today’s rapidly evolving workplaces, Australian organisations are turning to immersive learning tools like VR to handle specialised needs such ...

Powering Shepparton’s Businesses: Expert Commercial Electrical Services You Can Count On

When it comes to running a successful business, having reliable, compliant, and efficient electrical systems is non-negotiable. From small retail ou...

Maximise Efficiency: Cleaner Solar Panels for Optimal Performance

Solar panels are a smart investment in energy efficiency, sustainability, and long-term savings—especially here in Cairns, where the tropical sun ...

7 Common Air Conditioner Issues in Melbourne – And How to Fix Them

Image by freepik Living in Melbourne, we all know how unpredictable the weather can be. One moment it’s cold and windy, the next it’s a scorchin...

Powering Palm QLD with Reliable Electrical Solutions

Image by pvproductions on Freepik When it comes to finding a trustworthy electrician Palm QLD locals can count on, the team at East Coast Sparkies s...

The Smart Way to Grow Online: SEO Management Sydney Businesses Can Rely On

If you’re a Sydney-based business owner, you already know the digital space is crowded. But with the right strategy, you don’t need to shout the...

What Your Car Says About You: The Personality Behind the Vehicle

You can tell a lot about someone by the car they drive—or at least, that’s what people think. True Blue Mobile Mechanics reckon the car says a l...

The Confidence Curve: Why Boudoir Photography Is the Empowerment Trend You Didn’t Know You Needed

Boudoir photography has been quietly taking over social feeds, Pinterest boards, and personal milestones—and for good reason. It’s not just abou...

Understanding Level 2 Electricians: Why Sydney Residents Need Licenced Experts for Complex Electrical Work

When it comes to electrical work around the home or business, not all electricians are created equal. In Sydney, particularly when you're dealing wi...

Retirement Anchored in Model Boat Building for Waterford’s Doug Unsold

WATERFORD — When Doug Unsold sees his ship come in, it’s usually one he’s crafted with his own hands. The 67-year-old retiree from Waterford ...

The Science Behind Alarm Clocks and Your Circadian Rhythm

Waking up on time isn’t just about setting an alarm—it’s about working with your body, not against it. At the heart of every restful night and...

How to Use Plants to Create a Calming Atmosphere in Your Home

In today’s fast-paced world, cultivating a calm, soothing environment at home has never been more important. Whether you live in a busy urban apar...

How Maths Tutoring Can Help Students Master Maths

Mathematics can be a daunting subject for many students, often causing stress and frustration. However, maths tutoring has proven to be an effective...