EITI

EiTi is a standardized framework and ecosystem for interoperable digital interfaces among devices, sensors, and services, proposed by a cross-sector consortium in the early 2020s. The goal is to enable energy-efficient, real-time interactions in edge computing and Internet of Things environments. EiTi specifies open interfaces, data models, and runtime primitives that allow devices from different manufacturers to communicate and coordinate.

Key components include the EiTi Core Runtime, which provides execution and scheduling for event-driven tasks; the EiTi Protocol, a lightweight transport for messaging; and a set of data schemas for common domain models. The design emphasizes low-power operation, privacy, and security. It supports multiple transport layers such as IP, Bluetooth Low Energy, and Low Power Wide Area Networks, with a focus on late binding and modular deployment. Identity and security are addressed through device attestation, mutual authentication, and a public-key infrastructure.

History and governance: The concept emerged from research and industry collaboration in 2023, with a first open-source reference implementation released in 2024. A nonprofit foundation coordinates standards, certification, and ecosystem programs. Adoption has grown in academic pilots, smart-city demonstrations, and select industrial sensor networks, especially where interoperability across heterogeneous hardware is desired.

Impact and outlook: Proponents say EiTi reduces vendor lock-in and speeds edge AI deployments; critics point to potential governance fragmentation, security concerns, and the burden of certification. The project continues to evolve with new profiles for privacy-preserving data sharing.