The compatibility of the SAndroidE framework with the AltBeacon Android library, developed by Radius Networks, has been successfully tested, thus it is possible to develop applications exploiting both libraries simultaneously.
Bluetooth beacons are transmitters based on Bluetooth Low Energy technology (BT 4.0 – 4.1), which broadcast their identity to nearby electronic devices. Proximity applications are the common targets for systems developed using beacons; for example, messages can be sent to signal that a point of interest is nearby (the smartphone can help to find a beacon-labeled object). Another typical application is the indoor localization system, to determine the position of a smartphone in an indoor location.
The main advantage with respect to other positioning systems is the low power consumption with an adequate transmission range (compared to NFC technology), allowing the use of battery-powered devices (life duration is up to years).
The main available beacon protocols are: iBeacon, introduced by Apple; AltBeacon, developed by Radius Networks; Eddystone, the Google’s standard for beacon technology.
Further information about beacons can be found on the following links: Wikipedia, Wikipedia, TI, inthePocket.
