While Apple’s iBeacons aren’t the only Bluetooth LE beacons on the market, they have been the only option with the backing of a large, well-known company. Now Qualcomm is looking to change that, as they introduce their own $5 take on the devices.
Gimbal proximity beacons, available in two models, are accurate down to one foot and work indoors and outdoors […]
Depending on volume, Series 10 beacons [for indoor use] are available for as little as $5 each and Series 20 beacons [weatherproof version] are available for as little as $10 each.
Since the Qualcomm Gimbal proximity beacons are compatible with iOS, via a Software Development Kit that is available for retailers to create their own location-aware iOS apps, users won’t know when an app is using an official iBeacon or a Gimbal.
From the Gimbal Website:
You can use a combination of Gimbal Geofencing and Proximity with Gimbal Bluetooth® Smart beacons to provide users relevant content as they enter both macro locations and micro locations. Two types of beacons are available. The Series 10 are small form factor beacons with approximately 2-3 months of battery life depending on configuration and other factors. The Series 20 is an industrial design for indoor/outdoor use with approximately 1 year of battery life depending on configuration and other factors. To cover large locations both radial and polygonal geofences are supported.
