Volume 10 - Issue 1
An Analytical Approach to Using and Implementing Beacons: Opportunities and Challenges
- Hassan Khader Almathami
Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia, Al-Qunfudah Computer of Science College, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
hasshssn@hotmail.com
- Majed A. Alrafiee
Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia, Information Technology Department, Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Saudi Arabia
- Elena Vlahu-Gjorgievska
Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- Khin Than Win
Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
Keywords: Beacon, iBeacon, Eddystone, iOS, Android, Applications
Abstract
Beacon technology has great opportunities that offer a broad potential to enhance consumers’ experience.
In this paper, we explore the advantages, disadvantages and challenges of using and implementing
beacon technology. The qualitative research materials were gathered by reviewing reliable
articles, reports and applications. The number of software applications (“Apps”) that are being analysed
is limited to 50 applications that operate on iOS and Android platforms. The aim of the research
is to provide a clear insight into beacon technology and the opportunities it offers to improve user
experiences on mobile devices. The findings indicate that beacons’ interaction with mobile applications
(implementing beacon protocols) enhances users’ experience and satisfaction by enabling
indoor navigation and proximity navigation. However, there are several challenges, such as privacy,
security and applications’ usability that have caused users’ dissatisfaction.