Technology is changing so quickly; it's hard to keep up from day to day. Advertisers have an array of tools at their disposal to help consumers choose the right products for their age, lifestyle, and needs. One of these tools is an iPhone feature called iBeacon. And though Apple developed iBeacon, experts do expect that the feature, which works through a Bluetooth type called LE, will be available for Android as well.
What is iBeacon?
The iBeacon feature is Bluetooth-enabled. It uses GPS sensors to determine where you are, and using this technology, iBeacon can send you specific and personalized consumer alerts pointing you to nearby products, shops, and services. You may even receive coupons and discounts to ensure you step into a certain shop. Not only is this helpful for companies and brands, but it helps shoppers, too.
Does iBeacon Change Consumer Shopping Behavior?
The entire course of a shopping day can be changed with iBeacon. As a consumer, you may use iBeacon to comparison shop and find out a product can be purchased for a cheaper price somewhere else. You may also realize you have a coupon for one item and end up leaving one store to go to another. The data you get through iBeacon will be so specific, that it will be practically customized and directed right towards you, so you'll get the most useful shopping information to make your experience easier and more enjoyable.
Consider walking through the grocery store and wondering what you may make for dinner-iBeacon can help you figure out a meal, locate the ingredients within the store, and pick out a perfect wine pairing!
How Will iBeacon Enhance Customer Service?
Have you ever walked into a store and had a hard time finding a customer service representative to help you? The iBeacon feature can help you alert a salesperson, and even send your approximate location information. It also helps you put together outfits, so if you are browsing jeans, iBeacon may suggest some tops or shoes that go with what you're looking at. The same situation could happen inside a furniture store. The feature could also tell you which items are most popular with other shoppers. Due to these features, iBeacon could minimize shopping hassle, answer your questions when a salesperson isn't around, and help you put together and even pay for your purchases.
Can iBeacon Be Used for More Than Shopping?
Though iBeacon is considered a consumer shopping feature, it's not solely for shopping. Imagine walking into a concert, event, or baseball game and instantly receiving a text that greets you as you walk inside, or offers you a coupon for a snack upon entrance. In some restaurants, bars, and even doctor waiting rooms, iBeacon may deliver digital content to you while you're waiting. You may tour a museum using your iBeacon as a tour guide. The iBeacon feature will change everything for consumers everywhere they go. You may even be able to check into an airport or hotel without even approaching a desk.
Apple and iBeacon
Apple has created a feature that essentially does it all. When you step into an Apple store, you can use your iBeacon to alert clerks that you need assistance, or scan your product for payment right from your phone! You can get shopping suggestions or technical support. Has Apple set the tone for an entirely new purchasing experience? Will we eventually all be checking out through our phones? Experts think that the future of purchasing is easy to glimpse through iBeacon. Using iBeacon will not only change things for buyers but also for companies.
Questions and Final Thoughts
How do you think iBeacon will affect consumer behavior?
