What term describes internet-connected devices like thermostats and cameras?

The term that describes internet-connected devices such as thermostats and cameras is the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT refers to a network of physical objects—often embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies—that enables these devices to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet. This connectivity allows for remote monitoring and control, making everyday objects "smart."

For instance, a smart thermostat can learn your heating preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, while an internet-connected camera can send you alerts when it detects movement. This interconnectivity enhances functionality and user convenience, which is a hallmark of IoT devices.

In contrast, while smart devices is a term that can apply to the same objects, it is somewhat broader and less specific than IoT, as it may refer to any device with smart capabilities, not necessarily limited to internet connectivity. Cloud computing pertains to using remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data, and networked applications involve software programs that connect to a network to function, which do not specifically denote devices. Therefore, IoT is the most appropriate term for describing the class of internet-connected devices mentioned in the question.