# Digital Yacht Apps The Boat Beacon App is Reliable and Effective By Farida Helmy | Published 2014-06-04 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boat-beacon References: [digitalyacht.net](http://digitalyacht.net/2014/03/18/connecting-an-ais-receiver-to-an-android-tablet-with-boat-beacon/) & [pocketmariner](http://pocketmariner.com/boatbeacon/) If you're looking to connect your AIS receivers to a smartphone or tablet then you're in luck because Boat Beacon recently updated to a new version making the possibility a whole lot faster and easier. The AIS App for [Apple](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wireless-android-auto-device) and Android devices is super popular because it lets you do everything you need to do via AIS data without actually needing a AIS receiver on your boat. All you need is a smartphone or tablet and the Internet. The Boat Beacon App also connects you to [websites like Marine Traffic](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/realtime-beach-review), Ship Finder and AIS Hub without a transponder -- which you would have definitely needed to buy for your boat before. Yes, there is a risk of sometimes losing an Internet connection on the open water, but now with the Android USB 'On the Go' you'll always have a backup. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.9/10 - Popularity: 20% | Activity: 60% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Connected AIS Devices:** Opportunity for businesses to develop and improve smartphone and tablet apps that connect to AIS receivers, allowing users to access AIS data without the need for a physical receiver. - **Online Marine Tracking:** Opportunity to create online platforms and apps that provide real-time tracking and information on marine traffic, such as Marine Traffic, Ship Finder, and AIS Hub. - **Mobile Internet Connectivity:** Opportunity for businesses to create reliable and efficient mobile Internet solutions for boaters, ensuring continuous connectivity even in areas with limited coverage. ### Who This Affects Most - **Marine Technology:** Companies specializing in marine technology can leverage connected AIS devices to enhance their product offerings and improve boating experiences. - **Technology and App Development:** Opportunity for app developers and tech companies to create innovative and user-friendly applications that provide access to AIS data and online marine tracking services. - **Telecommunications:** Telecommunications companies can seize the opportunity to develop and offer specialized mobile Internet solutions for boaters, catering to their unique connectivity needs while on the open water. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Boat Mechanic Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boat-mechanic-app.md) - [Maintenance-Focused Maritime Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/maritime-app.md) - [Compact Smart Buoys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-buoy.md) - [Touchscreen Satellite Communicators](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/iridium-go-exec-satellite-communicator.md) - [Satellite Connectivity GPS Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/handheld-navigation-device.md) - [Immersive Rowing Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aviron-app.md) - [Emergency Distress Signals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sos-light-app.md) - [Weather Forecasting Softwares](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/predictwind.md) - [Recreational Diver Smartwatch Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oceanic-app.md)