Guest Editorial: Smart cities 2.0: How Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things are transforming urban living

The evolution of smart cities marks a profound shift in urban life globally, where new technologies enhance efficiency, sustainability, and the quality of life for residents. At the forefront of this transformation are Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), driving cities into a new era of innovation. AI and IoT connect devices and infrastructure, enabling cities to process vast amounts of data efficiently. These technologies have already revolutionised various aspects of daily life. IoT, for example, powers intelligent systems in logistics, healthcare, and automotive technology.

In line with the trend of advancing urban technologies, this Special Issue aims to present the latest advancements and explore the opportunities and challenges of integrating these technologies into city infrastructure. It provides policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders with critical insights into how these innovations shape the future of our cities. By sharing best practices, we highlight the potential of AI and IoT to foster smarter, sustainable, and more liveable cities. This issue underscores the importance of integrating these technologies into city planning and development, empowering stakeholders to drive positive change and build resilient urban communities.

The issue contains a curated selection of five papers, each offering groundbreaking insights into how AI and IoT are revolutionising urban living. From air quality prediction to cybersecurity and digital twin cities, these studies showcase diverse applications that are shaping the future of smart cities worldwide.

All of the papers selected for this Special Issue showcase the diverse and transformative potential of AI and IoT technologies in shaping the future of smart cities. From optimising air quality prediction using advanced hybrid models to enhancing cybersecurity through machine learning-driven approaches, each study contributes unique insights and practical solutions. Additionally, research on digital twin cities, ICT acceptance models, and art-based interventions underscores the interdisciplinary nature of smart city development, emphasising community engagement and sustainable urban planning. These findings collectively highlight the pivotal role of technological innovation in fostering resilience, efficiency, and inclusivity within urban environments. As smart cities continue to evolve, the lessons and advancements presented in this issue provide valuable guidance for policymakers, urban planners, and researchers striving to build more intelligent and liveable cities worldwide.