New data showcases how Bluetooth® technology is powering building-wide networks of sensors and beacons that enable indoor positioning and location-based services like wayfinding, asset management, and point-of-interest solutions. These advanced services enhance the occupant and visitor experience and extend the long-term return of smart building investments.
ABI Research predicts 10x growth in annual volume of Bluetooth Location Services by 2022. Already retail stores and airports around the globe are deploying indoor navigation and wayfinding solutions to improve the customer experience.
Mall of America
According to Proximity Directory, 75 percent of the top 20 retailers have already deployed location services. Mall of America relies on the power of Bluetooth beacons to empower customer navigation and improve their overall guest experience. With a Bluetooth beacon infrastructure in place, guests can easily find their way around the mall while gaining access to additional information, such as store hours and estimated time of arrival.
Target
Using Bluetooth® chips embedded in Acuity LED ceiling lights, Target’s network of beacons helps customers find their way around any Target location, all via the Target app. “Guests simply need to click on an item from their shopping list and the app will indicate on a store map the precise isle where the item can be found. It will even tell you if the product is on sale,” said Mike McNamara, Target chief information and digital officer.
Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport installed around 2,000 beacons in two terminals, creating an indoor navigation system more reliable than traditional GPS. This beacon-based positioning system is built on Bluetooth technology. The system uses Pointr Labs’ blue-dot positioning service to provide an augmented reality tool that guides passengers through the airport.
Beyond the benefits to passengers, Gatwick Airport’s beacon-based system is a low-cost option for indoor navigation. By using battery-powered beacons, Gatwick minimized logistical complexity while keeping installation and maintenance costs low. Unacast Proxbook predicts that 84 percent of global airports will be using beacons by the end of the year.
For new data on how Bluetooth technology is impacting the smart building market, check out the Bluetooth smart building infographic.
