Zebra's Sled Reader Enables UHF RFID Tag Reads Via Smartphone

Zebra Technologies recently announced an RFID sled known as the RFD8500 that will enable users of smartphones and other mobile devices to read EPC ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) RFID tags by connecting their Android or iOS devices to the reader via Bluetooth. Zebra has already tested and approved the RFD8500 for use with Apple's iPhone 6, iPad and iPod Touch, as well as Zebra's Android-based mobile devices, such as the TC55 and MC40. The company also expects to eventually test and approve the RFD8500 for use with Android smartphones and tablets, according to Chris Schaefer, Zebra's market-development senior director, following the RFD8500's anticipated availability in September.