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Apple's iBeacon to Track Shoppers, Offer Recommendations

Dec 6, 2013, 8:18 AM by Eric M. Zeman
updated Dec 6, 2013, 8:46 AM

Updated: typo

Apple plans to launch its iBeacon service at 254 of its U.S. stores today, reports the Associated Press. iBeacon uses Bluetooth transmitters inside Apple Stores to track the exact location of shoppers. Customers must download the most recent version of the Apple Store application, and turn their Bluetooth radios on in order for iBeacon to track them. When shoppers move about the Apple Store, iBeacon can sense if they are standing next to a table of iPhones, for example, and will send a message to ask if the customer is interested in an upgrade. The app can also direct shoppers to the check-out counter, or alert them when purchases are ready for pickup. Apple Stores will also be able to send alerts concerning sales or deals to shoppers in the vicinity. iOS device owners need to agree to allow Apple to track them in order for iBeacon to work. Apple has not updated the Apple Store application since early November, and it is unclear exactly when iBeacon will come online.

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Apple iPhone 5 (Americas GSM)

4" display 640 x 1136 pixels
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Apple iPhone 5 (CDMA / global)

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Comments

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This forum is closed.

Hays21

Dec 6, 2013, 12:56 PM

Annoying?

I feel like this would annoy people in the apple store that have it on. Walk by a phone, get a message asking if you want to upgrade. Walk by an ipad, get a message asking if you want to buy an ipad. Walk by a Mac, get a message asking if you want to buy a mac. Usually customers can find a checkout on their own. I'm curious to see if this will be anything that actually improves a shopping experience.

Tofuchong

The Apple store in Yorkdale mall in Toronto has no checkout counter / desk. 100% of transactions are completed by people walking around in blue shirts carring iphones that have a monsterous attachment on them.

...

marufio

They can do away with the employees too now with i-beacon.

Zpike

Dec 6, 2013, 12:40 PM

meh

Meh. Bring it to stores other than your own and then I'll care. As it stands, this is just another manifestation of society's most popular form of self gratification. 😈

Rich Brome

Macy's is deploying this as well.

Slammer

Dec 6, 2013, 3:19 PM

Store's Bathroom.

With the iFlush app, shoppers will receive a notification to flush the toilet and wash their hands before re-entering the showroom.

John B.

Poison Ivy

+1 🤣 🤣 🤣

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