You might recall the mystery device Apple had submitted to the FCC a few times over the last six months or so. What was it? What great thing would it do? It turns out it’s pretty mundane and boring… Unless you’re REALLY into electronic badge readers.
In September of last year, Bloomberg told of a wireless device, codenamed A1844, that had been submitted to the FCC for testing. It was believed even then that the mystery device wasn’t one intended for the consumer market, due to a wiring diagram that was included on the device.
The regulatory information is etched directly on the back plate of the device, along with a wiring guide, so the device is likely not intended for the consumer market, but instead may be destined for use in commercial settings, such as a product display unit, or some iBeacon-based device.
It turns out the device is likely an electronic badge reader that will be used by Apple to control entry into various areas of the new Apple Park office campus. Business Insider reports it will work this way:
Apple’s new Apple Park campus will officially open next month, when Apple employees begin moving their boxes into offices. Construction will continue on the project into September.