GPS World

Tag: Bluetooth LE

  • Hubble launches global Bluetooth tracking network

    Hubble launches global Bluetooth tracking network

    Bluetooth network enables real-time asset tracking for enterprises worldwide

    The new Hubble BLE Finding Network is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) finding network built specifically for enterprise use. Hubble, based in Seattle, is a satellite startup enabling Bluetooth devices to connect directly to space.

    While consumer platforms like Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device brought BLE discovery to personal devices, Hubble now brings that same reach and simplicity to businesses, offering real-time visibility and full data ownership on a global scale.

    “Consumer networks proved what’s possible, but businesses were left out,” said Alex Haro, co-founder of Hubble. “We’re giving them a powerful alternative with global visibility, zero infrastructure and full ownership of their data.”

    The Hubble BLE Finding Network leverages nearly 100 million passive scanners across gateways, smartphones and partner infrastructure, powered by low-cost BLE chips already embedded in billions of devices. This extensive network covers homes, cities, transit systems and industrial sites, enabling comprehensive global asset tracking for enterprises.

    Key Features

    • Global Reach: Real-time bluetooth discovery via 88+ million scanners worldwide.
    • Data Ownership: Maintain full enterprise control with no closed systems or vendor lock-in.
    • Infrastructure-Free: Activate tracking with existing BLE devices, no hardware required.
    • Robust Security: Protect data with encryption, rotating IDs, and verified endpoints.
    • Developer Friendly: Enable seamless integration with open SDKs and APIs.

    Enterprise Use Cases

    • Asset Tracking: Monitor tools, inventory, and equipment globally.
    • Fleet Management: Track assets in transit, on job sites, or in the field.
    • Temperature Monitoring: Instantly track temperature with BLE sensor tags.
    • Workplace Safety: Locate badges and wearables in hazardous environments.
    • Equipment Sharing: Gain visibility and usage insights across distributed teams.

    The Hubble’s BLE Network is now live and available for commercial deployment, including developer tools and onboarding support. To learn more or apply for access, visit https://hubblenetwork.com.

    In March 2024, Hubble made history with its Bluetooth connection to space. With a 96-satellite constellation planned by 2028, the company aims to connect one billion devices worldwide.

  • Sub-meter tracking coming to campuses with Link Labs’ AirFinder OnSite

    Link Labs soloA new enterprise platform available this summer provides real-time location and asset tracking across a campus with Bluetooth technology.

    Link Labs’ AirFinder OnSite is an internet of things (IoT) asset-tracking platform for campus-based environments. Using a Bluetooth Low Energy (Bluetooth LE) radio to support both Bluetooth LE and phase ranging brings location accuracy with Bluetooth LE tags to the sub-meter level.

    According to Link Labs CEO Bob Proctor, AirFinder OnSite eliminates the need to choose between high-cost/high-accuracy ultra-wideband solutions or low-cost/low-accuracy traditional Bluetooth LE solutions.

    Proctor sees it potentially used in distribution centers and warehouses, as well as IoT applications in manufacturing, healthcare and logistics management. With seven patented or patent-pending Link Labs technologies, AirFinder OnSite was developed on Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF52833, a general-purpose multiprotocol system-on-chip with a Bluetooth LE direction-finding-capable radio.

    Innovations at the firmware level solve an array of technical challenges for an enterprise-grade solution: ranging methodology, interference avoidance, a location algorithm, power efficiency and scalability to high-tag densities.

    These innovations allow asset location to be fine-tuned to the sub-meter level, making it a precise Bluetooth-based location technology.

    AirFinder does not require an internal Wi-Fi system and is capable of operating on its own secure network layer via Link Labs’ Symphony Link or other third-party network layer technology, such as Bluetooth mesh technologies. The AirFinder platform provides remote monitoring and device management, allowing the system to be optimized for different use cases.

    This spring, early adopters will support pilot deployments of AirFinder OnSite.