Predix is the cloud-based software development tool that is central to GE’s move to become a “digital industrial” company. As we've reported before, Predix is used to monitor and analyze the data from industrial machines such as wind turbines and jet engines, taking the massive amounts of data from the machines' sensors and making it available for analysis, so helping predict failures and making the machines run more cost effectively.

 

The new Predix SDK for iOS can be used to create native apps that combine the industrial analytics of Predix with advantages of running on iOS. The apps created using the new SDK will give industrial operators the ability to monitor and analyse the performance of their equipment and operations from their iPhone or iPad. A typical use might be a Predix app that could notify a worker on their iPhone of a potential issue with equipment such as a wind turbine, then be used to collaborate with remote teams when performing inspections and repairs, collecting relevant data instantly. The new SDK will be available to download on Thursday, October 26.

 

GE is also collaborating with Apple on the development of apps for both internal use and its customers, giving workers tools to enhance their jobs and help operations run more efficiently. GE’s Asset Performance Management (APM) Cases app, which is available in the App Store, helps industrial businesses increase machine reliability and availability while reducing maintenance costs and managing operations risks.

 

GE will standardize on iPhone and iPad for mobile devices and also promote Mac as a choice for its global workforce of more than 330,000 employees. Apple will promote GE’s Predix as the industrial IoT analytics platform of choice to its customers and developers. GE expects the partnership to result in its digital arm making $12 billion in revenue by 2020.