A Media Introduction to Smart Cities

Smart Cities: Big Data, Civic Hackers, and the Quest for a New Utopia

This informative book by Anthony M. Townsend shows how smart cities evolved and what and who is at work in shaping their future. He looks particularly at entrepreneurs, mayors, philanthropists, and software developers to identify their motivations, aspirations, and their shortcomings. Townsend is a technology forecaster who spans the globe, examining smart city trends and pros and cons.

City of the Future from Sidewalk Labs

If you’re into podcasts, go to your podcast player of choice and search for “City of the Future.” This is Sidewalk Labs’ podcast that delves deep into ideas and innovations that will transform smart cities. The podcast hosts talk to experts around the world as well as Sidewalk staff to bring you the latest in the future of smart cities.

Smart Cities, Smart Future: Showcasing Tomorrow

Authors Mike Barlow and Cornelia Levy-Benchteton explore the fascinating world of connected cities and communities around the globe. They describe current smart city projects in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and they detail the impact these cities have on people in towns, cities, and nations.

Final thoughts

Each of these media is easy to consume in a few minutes at a time. The podcasts are around 20 minutes long, perfect for commutes, and the books are easy to read while waiting in line. Whenever you can carve out 10–20 minutes, turn to one of these books or cue up a podcast. Fill your downtime with learning more about the smart city movement that’s sweeping the globe.

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