Smart city initiatives vary across different regions based on local needs, available resources, and technological infrastructure. The goal is to create a holistic environment that promotes economic growth, sustainability, improved quality of life, and innovation while also addressing urban challenges.Key characteristics of digital smart cities include:

Technology Integration: Implementing a wide array of digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, data analytics, and AI, to collect and analyze data for improving city services and infrastructure.

Connectivity and IoT: Utilizing interconnected devices and sensors to gather real-time data, allowing for better decision-making and enhanced services in areas like transportation, energy, waste management, and public safety.

Sustainability: Emphasizing eco-friendly solutions and sustainable practices, such as renewable energy, efficient waste management, and green infrastructure, to reduce the city's environmental impact.

Improved Services: Using technology to streamline public services, including smart transportation systems, efficient waste management, smart grids, and enhanced emergency services.

Citizen Engagement: Involving residents in decision-making processes and engaging with them through digital platforms to improve communication, transparency, and overall civic engagement.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Leveraging data analytics to make informed decisions on city planning, resource allocation, and service provision, aiming to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

Security and Privacy: Ensuring that digital advancements prioritize the security and privacy of citizens' data, infrastructure, and communication networks.

the Smart Cities Council (2014) defines "a smart city as one that has digital technology embedded across all city functions". This is also consistent with the findings of some of the literature reviews on smart cities (e.g. Yigitcanlar et al., 2018; Kummitha & Crutzen, 2017; Meijer & Bolívar, 2016.

A Digital Smart City is a urban environment that leverages advanced technologies, including IoT, AI, and data analytics, to enhance quality of life, sustainability, and efficiency for its residents. It incorporates digitalization as a foundational framework, using real-time data and smart infrastructure to optimize services, governance, and resource management. The key features include connectivity, innovation, citizen engagement, and environmental consciousness.

This definition emphasizes the role of technology in improving urban living, while highlighting the integration of digitalization as a fundamental approach. Whether one agrees or disagrees with this definition depends on individual perspectives and priorities. However, it is essential to recognize that a Digital Smart City is a multidimensional concept that evolves as technology and society progress.