Indoor location-based services are slowly becoming more sophisticated now that beacon technology is becoming more diverse. Instead of relying solely on Apple's iBeacon system, retailers can now implement next-generation LED lighting, which is being pioneered by GE Lighting and ByteLight. Currently rolling out in Walmart, the "ByteLight-enabled GE LED fixtures 'communicate' a unique light pattern using Visible Light Communication and Bluetooth Low Energy," shares both companies.
This example of indoor location-based services "will be capable of beaming coupons, promotions, product info, store maps and just about any experience developers can think up via the store’s mobile app," reports 9 to 5 Mac. It is better than standalone beacons in an energy savings capacity as well, saving $34,000 per year per store.
Indoor Location-Based Services
GE Lighting and ByteLight Roll Out Next-Generation LED Lighting
Trend Themes
1. Next-generation LED Lighting - There is an opportunity for companies to pioneer in the development of next-generation LED lighting for indoor location-based services.
2. Visible Light Communication - Visible Light Communication presents an opportunity for innovators to develop solutions for indoor location-based services, such as transmitting coupons, product info, and store maps.
3. Store Mobile Apps - There is a potential for developers to explore creative opportunities that come with store mobile apps and indoor location-based services, such as providing custom shopping experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Industry - The retail industry is set to benefit immensely from the adoption of indoor location-based services, as it allows for more personalized shopping experiences for customers.
2. Lighting Industry - The lighting industry can capitalize on indoor location-based services by developing innovative products that use visible light communication to support product promotion, coupons, and store mapping.
3. Mobile App Industry - The booming mobile app industry can develop solutions that creatively leverage the potential provided by indoor location-based services.