This document discusses how internet of things (IoT) technologies and cloud computing can help make cities smarter. It explores what characteristics define a smart city, including political leadership, efficient resource planning, integrated systems, ICT readiness, and citizen engagement. The document also examines smart city aspirations like engagement, quality of life, jobs, and sustainability. It argues that achieving these goals requires data-driven services, real-time optimization, gradual integration of systems and data flows, and long-term coordinated policymaking. The role of connectivity like cellular networks, Wi-Fi networks, and non-cellular networks in powering IoT devices is also assessed.