Google recently announced Eddystone -- open source beacons that will provide some competition for Apple's iBeacon.
The bluetooth beacon platform is both open source and cross platform, which means the small battery-powered devices will be compatible with iOS, Android and other devices. The bluetooth low energy (BLE) beacons can trigger actions when a smartphone or tablet device similar to other beacons, similar to the technology that is already in use by many retailers.
However, instead of broadcasting a unique message publicly, Google announced Eddystone has a way of communicating privately to particular individuals. Ephemeral Identifiers (EIDs) enables beacons to send a signal that only "authorized clients" can identify. A possible application of EIDs is secure luggage identification or finding lost keys.
Open Source Beacons
Google's Eddystone is an Open BLE Beacon Format That Can Communicate Privately
Trend Themes
1. Open Source Beacons - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new applications for open source beacons that can communicate privately.
2. Cross Platform Compatibility - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create devices and software that can seamlessly connect and interact across different platforms.
3. Ephemeral Identifiers - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore secure identification and communication systems using ephemeral identifiers.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Implement open source beacon technology to enhance customer experiences and improve in-store navigation.
2. Hospitality - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Utilize open source beacons to personalize guest experiences and provide seamless connectivity throughout hotels and resorts.
3. Transportation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop secure identification and tracking systems using open source beacons for luggage, keys, and other valuable items.