Bluetooth Beacons – The Future of Tracking

Beacons are better referred to as transmitters, which are connected to smart phones that are Bluetooth enabled. These send messages to a specific app, which is based on proximity to a beacon, and are beneficial in indoor navigation, asset tracking and other areas.

These are low-cost transmitters that are equipped with Bluetooth low energy and can be efficiently used in delivering proximity-based messages. Bluetooth beacons make use of small chip batteries of lithium and run through connected power such as USB plugs. 

How does beacon technology work?

Beacons make use of proximity technology in order to detect human presence in the surrounding arena while trigger actions in order to deliver customized experiences. With a user passing an area that comprises of indoor positioning system, a code is sent by beacon that comprises of a message, reflecting in the form of a notification to be viewed from a mobile app. Beacons transmit a unique ID number that conveys to a listening device which beacon lies next to. 

Users receive these coded messages from beacons through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), a power-efficient technology, essentially developed for IoT applications along with other devices. In order to use beacons, you would need the following:

·         A beacon device

·         A mobile app

·         The permission of the user

Beacon technology makes way for a private user experience and works well when paired with mobile app. Users now stay in full control while have the option to opt out. 

Types of beacons:

There are diverse kind of beacons, which are defined by its size, battery life and its resistance to multiple exogenous factors:

1.       Standard beacons

2.       Small beacons

3.       USB beacons

4.       Parent beacons

5.       Special beacons

Bluetooth technology is ever evolving and continues to develop with the growing time and coming forward with increasingly diverse options.