The Specifications Of Apple’s Newest iBeacon Are Out

Under a non-disclosure agreement, Apple has released the specifications of its upcoming product, the iBeacon. Available for all members of the MFi (Made For iPhone) program, viewing of the features requires you to sign an NDA first.

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Governed by Apple’s high security and validation algorithms, the snippet of information requires you to follow certain steps to be lucky enough to see it.

Permissions And Registration

To be able to use the iBeacon brand, you need to have prior consent, and also be a free registered MFi user. To register, you simply need to submit a request and wait for approval by Apple.

What Is iBeacon Anyway?

iBeacon is an indoor positioning system focused on Bluetooth Low Energy. It is compatible with iOS as well as Android devices that are integrated with Bluetooth Low Energy. The iBeacon helps you with proximity interactions, and works the same way as the Estimote.

Use By Merchants

When a Smartphone-equipped customer gets close to a specific product, merchants can send push notifications to the user. The iBeacon can also find application in payment systems for recognizing individuals in the store.

How It Works

Using Bluetooth Low Energy, the device broadcasts a Bluetooth LE signal which sends downloadable data to iPhones when they come near the beacon.

The Apple Registered Trademark

Although iBeacon will be compatible with Android-powered devices as well, it will remain a registered trademark of Apple. All developers need to sign up to the MFi program and use an iBeacon name. The devices will be B2B devices for trade show staff, shop owners, etc.

Other Beacons On The Market

A significant product of the same kind available on the tech market is the Estimote. Probably the only difference between this and the iBeacon is that the iBeacon is ‘Made for the iPhone’, but will also work with other platforms.