M&A, Strategies, Alliances Itron has joined the Wi-SUN Alliance, as a promoter member, aiming to push the 802.15.4g standard in the utility and smart grid ecosystem. American Express has joined the Linux Foundation’s Hyperledger blockchain project. Telit has acquired GainSpan, a specialist in low-power WiFi hardware and software. No price was given, but Telit is looking to grow in short-range connectivity offerings. HPE has acquired Niara, planning to integrate Niara’s cybersecurity expertise HPE’s Aruba division, which is expanding to serve IoT devices. Samsung has acquired Perch, a smart home software company that centered on turning old phones into interactive cameras. Forecasts, Reports, and Blue Sky Thinking InterDigital has published a whitepaper, discussing the implications of data exchange on the connected…