Apple has implemented an indoor proximity system known as iBeacon into the newer generations of their devices. These tiny, inexpensive, Bluetooth transmitters will provide device users with better location-based information and services; FourSquare and Groupon being examples of benefactors. Since iBeacon must be activated with the downloading of an app, the potential consumers opt in to viewing this content. So, what does this mean for advertisers? Everything.
In addition to making these services better, iBeacon transmitters will (upon app installation) stay alert for transmissions within range pertaining to sales and specials by local vendors. So if a device user were to pass by a beacon in a shop, after 20 seconds of remaining within range the retailer’s app would send the passerby’s device a transmission displaying an ad.
This is incredibly useful technology for advertisers. Those who choose to download the app have voluntarily made themselves susceptible to receiving advertising content. This allows a vendor to attain better engagement. First, the passerby is open to receiving content; second, they have been within a reasonable range of your store for 20 seconds or more. This leads to strategic targeting of people most likely to perform a transaction in your store. Coca Cola is one of the premier brands already strategizing on how to use this technology effectively.
(courtesy of zdnet.com)
