Nearables

Nearables, also known as proximity beacons or beacon devices, are small, typically battery-powered hardware transmitters that broadcast unique identifiers via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. These identifiers can be detected by nearby smartphones, tablets, and other BLE-enabled devices. Upon detection, a connected device can trigger a variety of actions, such as displaying a notification, providing location-specific information, or initiating a transaction.

The term "nearable" distinguishes these devices from traditional GPS-based location services. Unlike GPS, nearables work indoors where GPS signals are often unreliable. They offer a more granular and localized positioning system.

Nearables function by broadcasting a signal at regular intervals. This signal includes a universally unique identifier (UUID), a major identifier, and a minor identifier. These identifiers can be customized to represent specific locations or objects. Receiving devices with the appropriate software or applications can interpret these identifiers and perform predefined actions based on the configured logic.

Common use cases for nearables include retail marketing (e.g., sending promotional offers to customers near specific products), indoor navigation (e.g., guiding visitors through a museum or hospital), asset tracking (e.g., locating equipment in a warehouse), and proximity-based authentication (e.g., unlocking a door when a user is within range).

The technology relies on the receiver device having Bluetooth enabled and an application or system configured to recognize and respond to the specific nearable identifier. Security considerations involve controlling access to the identifiers and preventing spoofing or unauthorized use.