Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a business owner, you've probably heard about BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) beacons and their potential to revolutionize the way we interact with our environment. But like any other emerging technology, the news and ideas about BLE beacons are full of misconceptions and myths. From the belief that beacons are only useful for large-scale businesses to the misconception that they are not secure and compromise user privacy, there are various myths and misconceptions that need to be addressed first hand before you decide to invest in BLE beacon technology.
In this blog, we’ll bust 10 common myths and clear misconceptions about BLE beacons that will help you have a clear understanding of BLE beacon technology and how to benefit from BLE beacons in access control, data transmission and advertising, etc.
What are BLE Beacons?
BLE beacons are small, wireless devices that transmit Bluetooth signals to nearby smartphones or other BLE compatible devices. These signals contain unique IDs that trigger specific actions or deliver targeted content to users. BLE beacons are designed to provide location-based information and personalized experiences, mostly in indoor settings while keeping the power consumption to minimum.
BLE beacons are battery-powered and can be used in a variety of locations, including retail stores, museums, airports, and stadiums. They operate by emitting signals periodically that are detectable by devices within range.
A simple BLE beacon set up requires minimal infrastructure and you only need to set up BLE gateways, BLE beacons, and a cloud server to store the data. Users can use their smartphones or tablets to read the data broadcasted or advertised over BLE beacon or to capture data from BLE tags.
10. Common Myths and Misconceptions about BLE Beacons
Myth 1: BLE Beacons are Expensive
Many believe that BLE beacons are expensive to use and implement.
The initial setup cost of BLE technology is indeed expensive, but the overall investment can benefit your business with a significant return on investment. They are gaining popularity worldwide, which results in a reduction in their pricing. BLE beacons are now more affordable than ever, with a wide range of options available on the market. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, there are cost-effective solutions to suit your needs. The fact that BLE beacons are compatible with smartphones, you don’t need to set up large scale infrastructure to implement BLE beacon technology.
Myth 2: BLE Beacons are limited to Retail
Another misconception about BLE beacon technology is that BLE beacons are limited to the retail sector only.
BLE beacons can be used in various industries including healthcare, education, travel and tourism, hospitality, etc.
When it comes to healthcare, they can facilitate patient navigation and provide real-time updates on wait times. For museums and galleries, they can offer interactive exhibits and deliver contextual information. In transportation, they can assist with indoor navigation and provide location-based notifications.
Myth 3: BLE Beacons drain Smartphone Battery
Another common misconception about BLE beacons is the battery drainage issue that it drains smartphone battery life.
This is not true. BLE technology is energy-efficient and consumes less power when transmitting Bluetooth signals. Smartphones are equipped with advanced power management systems to optimize their battery usage, and BLE technology works seamlessly with these systems. As a result, users can enjoy the benefits of BLE beacons without significant battery drain. Since BLE beacons use limited channels for data transmission, they scan fast and consume less power than classic Bluetooth technology.
Myth 4: BLE Beacons are difficult to set up
It is also a common myth is that setting up a BLE beacon is a complex and time-consuming process.
However, advancements in technology have made it easier than ever to deploy and manage BLE beacon networks. Maintenance is also relatively straightforward, with remote monitoring and management capabilities available. Businesses can easily update beacon configurations, monitor battery levels, and track performance through intuitive interfaces.
Since, BLE beacons don’t feature extensive infrastructure set up, the maintenance is relatively low in comparison to other peer technologies.
Myth 5: BLE Beacons are not effective for Small Businesses
BLE beacons are only beneficial for large-scale businesses is another prevalent misconception about BLE.
However, this is far from the truth, as BLE beacons provide various advantages to small businesses, including efficient customer management, which leads to an increase in the number of regular customers.
Beacons are optimized to provide personalized offers and targeted content to customers. It can be easily set up keeping in mind the individual business requirement, irrespective of business scale. Therefore, small businesses can create a unique experience for consumers with BLE beacons.
Myth 6: BLE Beacons have Limited Range
Some people also believe that BLE beacons have limited range and can only operate over short distances.
Though, the range of BLE beacons is generally shorter than that of traditional Bluetooth devices, BLE beacons offer a range of up to 100 meters, which is more than sufficient for most applications like asset tracking, indoor positioning, access control, and blood pressure monitoring.
Myth 7: BLE Beacons invade Privacy
Privacy concerns related to location and other personal data arise when using BLE beacons, more so when you use your smartphone.
The fact is that BLE beacons on their own do not collect personal information or track individual users. They only transmit signals containing unique identifiers that can trigger actions on users' devices. Even to ensure user privacy, BLE beacons require users' permission to access their device's Bluetooth and location services. Users can receive notifications or interact with the material triggered by the beacons.
Apart from that BLE technology uses various modern encryption technologies such as AES to encrypt the data in transit.
Myth 8: BLE Beacons are not secure
It is another misconception about BLE is that BLE is not secure for business.
Concerns about the security of BLE beacons are understandable, given the sensitive nature of the data businesses and individuals transmit. However, to ensure security, businesses should follow best practices, such as encrypting beacon signals and implementing secure protocols. Regularly update beacon firmware to address any potential vulnerability.
Myth 9: BLE Beacons are a Passing Trend
Many people think that BLE technology is just a passing trend.
However, the adoption and advancements in BLE beacon technology is on the rise and indicates that businesses across various industries continue to leverage the benefits and applications of BLE beacons. From enhancing customer experiences to optimizing various business operations, BLE beacons offer several applications streamlining the business processes.
The BLE technology based wearable devices now have a considerable market and it is rapidly growing.
Myth 10: BLE Beacons Require an Internet Connection
Some also believe that BLE beacons need internet connection to work efficiently.
BLE Beacons work on Bluetooth 4.0 protocol and can operate independently without using the Internet. However, being an IOT technology, internet connectivity can enhance its overall functionality, such as by allowing remote management and data analytics. BLE beacons themselves can also function in offline mode without using the Internet.
In conclusion, BLE beacon is a powerful tool for businesses looking to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and boost sales. After busting the common myths surrounding BLE beacons, we now have an idea about the potential of this technology. From eliminating the myth of high costs and battery drain to addressing privacy concerns and highlighting the versatility of BLE beacons, it is clear that this technology offers benefits for businesses all across various industries.
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