Beacons: Small Bluetooth Devices for Location-Based Features
Beacons are small Bluetooth low energy devices that broadcast signals which can be detected by mobile apps and devices in close proximity, enabling location-based features and micro-interactions.
What is Beacons?
Beacons are small, inexpensive Bluetooth low energy devices that broadcast identifiable signals up to about 50 meters. Mobile apps and devices with Bluetooth capability can detect these signals when in close proximity to a beacon and trigger location-based actions and features.
For example, a retailer may place beacons throughout a store. As customers with the retailer's app walk around, their app detects the beacons' signals. The app can then send customers location-based notifications, coupons or product information. Or an airport may use beacons to provide location-specific flight updates to travelers.
Compared to GPS or WiFi triangulation for location services, beacons provide more precise micro-location accuracy down to 1-3 meters. They also work indoors where GPS typically fails. This enables a variety of micro-interaction and contextual computing use cases based on precise proximity to a specific point.
Beacons help enable the Internet of Things by allowing devices and environments to respond contextually to nearby users and devices. Setup is easy, with battery-powered beacons simple to deploy and maintain for years at a time.
Beacons Features
Features
- Broadcast Bluetooth low energy signals
- Detectable by mobile apps and devices in close proximity
- Enable location-based features and micro-interactions
- Can trigger actions on devices based on proximity
- Provide contextual notifications and information to users
Pricing
- Free
- Freemium
- Subscription-Based
Pros
Highly targeted location-based marketing
Increased customer engagement
Detailed analytics and insights on customer behavior
Cost-effective compared to other location tech like GPS
Easy to set up and maintain
Cons
Limited signal range
Requires app integration to detect signals
Battery powered so requires maintenance
Potential privacy concerns around location tracking
Can be costly to deploy at scale
Official Links
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