What is iBeacon?
iBeacon is a protocol developed by Apple that allows iOS devices to detect and communicate with beacons in order to provide location-based information and services. iBeacons use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to broadcast a small amount of data to nearby devices.
Here’s how iBeacon works:
- A beacon device is placed in a physical location and configured to broadcast a unique identifier.
- An iOS device with the necessary software installed (such as an app) scans for nearby BLE signals.
- When the iOS device detects a signal from an iBeacon, it can determine the proximity of the beacon based on the strength of the signal.
- The iOS device can then use the identifier broadcast by the iBeacon to determine its location and trigger a specific action or display specific information, such as a push notification or a discount coupon for a nearby store.
iBeacon is just one example of a BLE-based proximity solution, but it has been widely adopted due to its support on the iOS platform. BLE beacons can be used for a wide range of applications, including indoor navigation, proximity marketing, and location-based services.