French IoT startup files for bankruptcy protection

Sigfox, a high-profile IoT startup that had ambitions to build a global communications network using a new approach to wireless networking, has filed for bankruptcy protection in France, citing slow sales of its products and challenging conditions due to COVID-19.

The company says it will be using the process, which will initially last six months, to seek a buyer to support Sigfox’s long-term development and propose to maintain jobs.

It will continue operations in the meantime: Sixfox says says its network spans 75 countries.

Nitches Launches Verification Technology to Protect Clothing from Counterfeiting and Prove Authenticity

Nitches announced the launch of it its Owner Verification System (OVS), which is in the patent application process. Nitches developed the OVS to prove the authenticity of its high-end, exclusive capsule collections that are created with celebrities and influencers. Nitches plans to make its OVS available to other businesses that want to protect their merchandise from counterfeiting in the near future.

Nitches sews a unique QR code into every item it manufactures. Buyers can scan these codes to register their products with a phone number and/or email address on Nitches' proprietary mobile app to verify ownership and originality. The easy-to-use mobile app was designed to work on both iOS and Android devices.

After a QR code is scanned, Nitches' OVS stores the information on a blockchain to ensure the transaction is completely safe and secure. Blockchain, used by cryptocurrency systems like Bitcoin, is a distributed, decentralized database that stores data in blocks that are then linked together. Blockchain-based metaverse environments will also allow Nitches to protect its NFTs (non-fungible tokens) of its clothing items in the digital world, leading to increased interactivity and more secure ownership.

Zebra will attach RFID tags to players’ shoulder pads to transmit real-time location data to gather metrics.

The East-West Shrine Bowl will introduce on-field player tracking data driven by Zebra Technologies. Zebra will provide its RFID tracking technology to deliver important player performance insights for the practices leading up to the 2022 East-West Shrine Bowl and the game itself.

Zebra will attach RFID tags to players’ shoulder pads to transmit real-time location data to gather metrics such as speed, distance traveled, orientation and acceleration.

The 97th East-West Shrine Bowl will kick off at 5 p.m. Pacific on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. It will air live on NFL Network.

iPhones to accept NFC payments with tap-to-pay

Apple is developing a new feature that would allow iPhone users to accept credit card payments via contactless technology without any extra hardware.

Apple would be able to leapfrog Square’s hardware by integrating tap-to-pay terminal technology directly into the iPhone using its built-in NFC chip.

This means small businesses would be able to accept tap-to-pay payments without any external hardware.

Worldwide Embedded Antenna Systems Industry is Expected to Reach $8.4 Billion by 2027

The global embedded antenna systems market was valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 8.4 billion by 2027; it is anticipated to register a CAGR of 14.9% during the forecast period from 2021 to 2027.

The key factors driving the growth of the embedded antenna systems market include increasing adoption of embedded antenna in Internet of Things devices, increasing demand for low-power wide area (LPWA) networks in IoT applications, and others.

On the basis of antenna type, the embedded antenna systems market has been segmented into PCB trace antenna, chip antenna, patch antenna, FPC antenna and others. The chip antenna segment of the embedded antenna systems market is projected to hold the largest market share than all other antenna types owing to the heavy consumption of chip antennas by consumer electronics manufacturers globally.

Based on end user, the embedded antenna systems market has been segmented into consumer electronics, automotive & transportation, industrial, communication (datacom & telecom), healthcare, aerospace & defense, and others. The consumer electronics segment holds the largest share of the embedded antenna systems market from 2021 to 2027, as these antennas are used extensively in smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, wearables, gaming consoles, and other peripheral devices for wireless applications such Bluetooth, WLAN, Wi-Fi, GPS, and others.

gDi Implements FaceTec's Leading 3D Face Authentication Software for Largest Bank in the UAE

Gulf Data International (gDi) has been a trusted MENA tech integrator and solutions provider for nearly 40 years, and now in partnership with biometrics technology leader FaceTec, announces the launch of Liveness Detection and 3D Face Authentication software at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), after a successful rollout for the class-leading solution.

FAB has chosen gDi to integrate their digital security solution, which is powered by FaceTec's 3D Liveness Detection and 3D Face Matching software. The system provides unparalleled security during user onboarding while providing an interface that is fast and intuitive for everyone, regardless of their device.

Based in Abu Dhabi, FAB is the UAE's largest bank and one of the world's largest and most trusted financial institutions, offering an extensive range of personal solutions, products, and services that provide a tailored customer experience. The addition of 3D Liveness Detection and 3D Face Matching now provides unprecedented security while onboarding new users and verifying existing customers from any smart device. A two-second video selfie proves the user's Liveness, matches the user's 3D FaceMap to their official photo ID, and sets up their new account. Every time the user returns, the ongoing authentication checks again for Liveness and then compares their new 3D FaceMap to the one acquired during enrollment. If the correct user is present, they get instant access. All onboarding transactions are processed via the FAB platform "Payit," which has now expanded to many other applications within the Bank's portfolio.

The implementation of 3D Liveness Detection and 3D Face Matching has enabled higher levels of security for Payit, the UAE's first all-in-one digital wallet. Created by FAB, Payit was built with a vision to help the UAE evolve into a cashless society.

Under Armour Expands RFID Capabilities For Greater Inventory Visibility

Using Nedap ID Cloud, the performance athletic brand aims to unlock a powerful omni-channel strategy. Under Armour, which is hoping to drive operational efficiencies across 400 of its global locations, chose the provider because of the ability to quickly scale the inventory visibility program.

With the new initiative, the athletic apparel retailer will lay an operational and technological foundation to provide both its management and associates with a real-time view of inventory across each of the brand’s stores.

Using innovative tools like RFID tags to increase retailer agility and responsiveness is just one of the ways organizations are deploying in-store technology to offer customers a better omnichannel shopping experience and increase sales.

More than half of hospitals’ connected medical devices and IoT platforms operate with a known critical vulnerability

More than half of hospitals’ connected medical devices and IoT platforms operate with a known critical vulnerability, with the greatest risks found in IV pumps, according to a recent report from Cynerio.

Cynerio researchers analyzed more than 10 million IoT and IoMT devices from current Cynerio implementations at over 300 hospitals and healthcare facilities globally and in the U.S.

The report found one-third of bedside healthcare IoT devices have an identified critical list. It’s a serious patient safety risk, as they’re directly connected to patient care.

Elo Introduces M60 Pay Android-Powered Mobile Computer With Built-in Payment Capabilities

Elo announced a major addition to their mobile computer lineup – the Elo M60 Pay handheld computer. The new device brings payment centerstage to empower retail, hospitality, and entertainment businesses to accept payments in store or on the go – wherever customers are located.

Built to accept today's popular payment and loyalty cards, the new M60 Pay has a built-in EMV, magnetic stripe reader and NFC for cards with chips, stripes and digital contactless payments.

The M60 Pay features a large 6-inch HD touch display, a fast Qualcomm 660 octa-core processor and Android 10 OS with Google Mobile Services. The M60 Pay device is designed to last a full shift with its 12-hour battery life, and its rugged design is purpose-built to endure commercial use.

The M60 Pay computer can transform from a mobile to a fixed POS solution. The optional docking station, expansion module and touchscreen monitor allow your M60 Pay computer to become a fixed counter-based point-of-sale terminal.

For L1 and L2 certified applications, the Elo Payment SDK makes it easy to integrate the M60 Pay computer into the payment process flow. Elo's own L3 certification via Elo Pay, a SaaS-based payment gateway solution, will allow businesses to set up the M60 Pay to accept payments without any coding or certification.

Vubiq Networks Awarded New RFID Patent

Vubiq Networks has been awarded a new radio frequency identification (RFID) patent by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Patent number 11216625 is entitled High Bit Density Millimeter Wave RFID Systems, Devices, and Methods Thereof.

Vubiq Networks’ technology lowers costs by enabling the use of low electrical conductivity metals for the antenna elements, avoiding costly silver-based inks. Vubiq Networks has been able to achieve this breakthrough because the technology does not rely on spectral resonance response, but instead relies on radar cross-section and antenna reradiation mechanisms.

Vubiq Networks has a long history of innovation in millimeter wave RFID technology.

Apple Pay to launch in Argentina and Peru

Apple Pay is due to roll out in Argentina and Peru soon, according to the payments service’s Latin American website.

The move comes after Peru’s Interbank announced support for Apple Pay, before removing the announcement from its website.

Apple Pay published a Chilean support page in October 2021 following similar reports that customers of Banco di Chile were temporarily able to add their credit card to Apple Pay before the bank cancelled the option.

Real-time Location Systems Market (RTLS) worth $12.7 billion by 2026

 

According to the new research report the Real-time Location Systems Market (RTLS), the RTLS market is estimated to be valued at USD 3.9 billion in 2021 and reach USD 12.7 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 26.5%.

The increasing regulations in various industries to improve safety, workflow, and security and increasing popularity of ultra-wideband technology-based RTLS solutions are the key factors that will accelerate the growth of the RTLS market during the forecast period.

Likewise, growing need for contact-tracing solutions due to COVID-19 pandemic and growing trend of hybrid RTLS solution are expected to create lucrative opportunities for the players in the RTLS market. However, high cost of installation and maintenance and stringent government rules and regulation are expected to restraint market growth.

The healthcare vertical is expected to continue to account for the largest market size during the forecast period. The growth of the healthcare vertical can be attributed to the early adoption of RTLS-based solutions for a wide range of applications in healthcare, especially in the US. The growing usage of IoT devices in the healthcare sector is also expected to contribute to the growth of the RTLS market in the healthcare vertical. Concerns over the safety of patients and security of electronic health records and valuable assets have also encouraged the adoption of RTLS solutions in healthcare.

The market for UWB-based RTLS solutions is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 33% during the forecast period. UWB technology-based RTLS solutions provide more accurate data than RTLS solutions based on other technologies. UWB technology can support locating objects down to the range of a few centimeters. This is highly beneficial in high-intensity operations in the healthcare and manufacturing verticals. The rapid decline in the prices of UWB tags has also resulted in the increased implementation of these tags in RTLS solutions. The manufacturing and logistics industries are likely to be the major contributors to the growth of the market for UWB-based RTLS solutions in the coming years.

Software solution helps New Zealand cherry grower reward and retain quality workers

RFID technology is helping New Zealand cherry producer Tarras Cherry Corp attract and reward productive seasonal workers.

Developed by Auckland-based software company Dataphyll, the technology removes any discrepancy around volumes harvested by pickers.

The software has been integrated with Tarras Cherry Corp's existing orchard and people management solution, known internally as Horthub.

Produced by Prolorus Solutions on the Prolorus platform, Horthub captures hours worked, combines the productivity data captured by Dataphyll and calculates transactions required for payroll.

Brother UK partners with barcode software vendor, Teklynx

Brother UK has signed a new partnership deal with barcode software vendor, TEKLYNX. Rhe new agreement has enabled TEKLYNX’ software to become fully-native with Brother’s entire suite of thermal labelling solutions.

The partnership covers the rugged, mobile RJ range through to the industrial-grade TJ models.

The collaboration with TEKLYNX follows new agreements with barcode software providers NiceLabel and BarTender, as well as Datalogic, a vendor of barcode scanning devices.

Researchers develop highly flexible NFC circuits using transparent film based on calligraphy paper

 Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China in Hefei have developed a pliable high-strength transparent film and demonstrated how it can be used to create NFC circuits that can still be read even after being folded or bent and could be integrated into flexible electronic and optical devices.

The researchers used the multiscale film as a substrate to fabricate a near field communication (NFC) circuit. The film integrated with the NFC circuit not only exhibited high transparency and high haze, but also had excellent flexibility.

Even if the film was severely bent, the information written in the film could still be read quickly and accurately by the smartphone, according to the researchers.

ICP DAS Partners with IoT Software Provider Exosite to Introduce ExoWISE Solution

ICP DAS, a manufacturer of industrial automation equipment, announced the new ExoWISE solution. The creation of ExoWISE is the result of a new partnership with Exosite, an enterprise software company and a leading provider in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform market.

The new solution leverages Exosite's ExoSense remote condition monitoring application and Murano IIoT platform running on AWS infrastructure with a native device connection from the ICP DAS WISE-5231 gateway. Exosite's Murano platform provides excellent management over cloud security for encryption and authorization.

As long as customers use the standard Modbus protocol, ICP DAS's IIoT edge gateway WISE-5231 can connect with the ExoWISE solution. Once connected, WISE-5231 can immediately begin sending data to the cloud platform for remote control and monitoring in various industrial applications, enabling users to view dashboards with real-time data and equipment status, as well as receive notifications, manage user access, and generate reports. The primary function of WISE-5231 is to connect edge devices with the Internet and act as a bridge between devices and the cloud. These features are a big differentiator when compared with standard SCADA systems.

Remote monitoring is an effective system for optimizing production in various industries. It also helps reduce equipment downtime and improve quality. However, developing such a system can be challenging. Because of this, ICP DAS has leveraged Exosite's technologies to provide customers with an end-to-end IoT solution: ExoWISE. ICP DAS has chosen to partner with Exosite because of its  established and trusted brand in the IIoT market, providing end-to-end solutions, an enterprise software platform, and an extensive range of tools to make it easier to configure and deploy IoT applications.

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Worldwide Industrial Sensors Industry is Expected to Reach $31.9 Billion by 2026

The Global Industrial sensors market is expected to grow from USD 20.6 billion in 2021 to USD 31.9 billion by 2026; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% during 2021-2026, according to new research.

Key factors fuelling this market's growth include rising adoption of Industrial 4.0 and IIoT in manufacturing; surging demand for smart sensor-enabled wearable devices; and technological advancements in the industrial sensor. Predictive maintenance to offer lucrative opportunities to market players; and increasing demand from automobile manufacturers to deliver improved safety and comfort for smart sensors create a strong demand for industrial sensors for efficient industrial operations in the midst of COVID-19.

The market for level sensors accounted for the largest size in 2020. A level sensor is used to detect and measure the level of liquids, bulk solids, and other fluids. The level measurement is either continuous or in the form of point values. The need for level sensor arises due to various factors, such as the need for accuracy, appearance, response rate; ease of calibration of instruments; size of the instrument; monitoring and/or controlling of continuous or point level.

The market for contact type sensors is estimated to account for a larger share of the overall Industrial Sensors market, in 2020. Contact level sensors involve physical contact between the device (comprising contact type industrial sensor) and media. The technologies used in contact type level sensors are magneto resistive, vibratory probe, hydrostatic, magnetic and mechanical float, pneumatic, rotating paddle, resistive chain, and weight and chain. Some of the most common types of contact type sensors are temperature sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, flow sensors, etc.

The Market Momentum in RFID

RFID proves itself to be a resilient industry during COVID-19. According to the IDTechEx market research report "RFID Forecasts, Players and Opportunities 2022-2032", COVID-19 has impacted the whole RFID business in 2020 – especially those that require physical on-site work. However, the market rebounds very well since 2021.

For UHF RFID business in retail apparel and footwear tagging – the largest UHF RFID market by tag volume as well as market value, the market rebounded since the second half of 2020 and it continues to grow strongly since. Several leading UHF RFID tag suppliers told IDTechEx that they expect this trend to continue for the foreseeable future, as more businesses will be in need to improve their inventory accuracy and business processes. UHF RFID in the retail apparel and footwear tagging business proves itself to be very successful, leading players are looking into bringing this success to other business sectors. Retail beyond apparel and footwear, food (ex: quick-service restaurant business), and supply chain & logistics are the three industries named most frequently by the companies IDTechEx interviewed.

IDTechEx expects to see the retail sector in the UHF market continue to grow and dominate, with the retail apparel and footwear sector being the most dominant growth driver. Other industries, such as supply chain and logistics, are expected to expand in the coming years.

For HF/NFC business, contactless payment is still the dominant sector and will continue to be so in the mid-long term. In the long run, the largest market in the HF/NFC sector identified by IDTechEx is the NFC applications beyond payments using flexible ICs. Currently, even though the HF/NFC beyond the payments sector is expanding, most applications in this sector are still relatively low volume deployments across numerous projects, such as Bluetooth pairing, gaming, information posters, and so on. Smart packaging is thought to be the application with the highest volume opportunity in this sector. However, the high cost of rigid ICs and lack of unique business cases are the two bottlenecks that hinder the strong growth. New technologies, such as flexible integrated circuits may help to drive the price down in the longer term. IDTechEx continues to monitor the R&D development as well as the scaling opportunities of the company (PragmatIC) that is developing this technology (PragmatIC full detailed company profile is included in IDTechEx's RFID market research report).

Despite the RFID industry is returning to growth since 2021, IDTechEx forecasts that the worldwide chip shortage challenge will persist into 2022 and possibly 2023. Initially, Initially, the chip shortage crisis had little effect on the RFID industry. Many companies had stockpiled in anticipation of this crisis, which has aided larger RFID companies in meeting consumer demands. However, as of Q4 2021, what the companies have experienced in some cases is that supply can fall short, and they have had to adjust their pricing to reflect this.

RFID Tags Manufacturing Companies Form Strategic Acquisitions To Capture Synergies

The global radio-frequency identification tags market size is expected to grow from $10.53 billion in 2020 to $12.21 billion in 2021 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16%. The change in growth trend in the RFID tags market is mainly due to the companies stabilizing their output after catering to the demand that grew exponentially during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The RFID tags market size is expected to reach $18.94 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 11.6%.

The radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags market is fragmented with a large number of players. The key players in the market are focusing on expanding their business and geographical presence in the market through strategic acquisition, new product launches and new manufacturing facility establishments.

The top ten competitors in the market made up to 14.7% of the total market in 2020. Major players in the radiofrequency identification tags market are Avery Dennison, Zebra Technologies, Honeywell, NXP Semiconductors, Impinj Inc., Invengo Technology Pte. Ltd., ams AG, Atmel Corp, Alien Technology, Smartrac N.V., GAO RFID Inc., The Tag Factory, and MOJIX.

NIST Seeks Members For New IoT Advisory Board

The National Institute of Standards and Technology issued a notice of intent looking for nominations to join its first Internet of Things Advisory Board.

Consisting of 16 members, the inaugural group will focus on policies that impact the Internet of Things, the digital networks that comprise countless connections and devices. Working group members will research, analyze, and advise on federal policy that might influence IoT.

The advisory board and working group will act as separate but symbiotic entities, with the advisory board set to counsel the working group on designated IoT topics. Its formation is part of the federal government’s response to strengthening cybersecurity protocols in both the public and private sectors.

Barcode Readers Market to Value US$ 10.1 Bn by 2030; Notes TMR Study

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the use of the barcode technology and associated devices in healthcare institutions for use of various applications from patient information to medication record and testing patient samples.

The prospect of development of mobile apps to scan barcodes of COVID-19 test samples using any smart device will fuel the growth of the barcode readers market, finds a TMR study.

The use of the barcode technology has gained considerable traction to track the inventory of medical devices over the past year. The use of the barcode technology that employs barcode readers helps in structuring data to manage the inventory of medical devices. Due to the efficacy of the barcode technology for inventory management of medical devices during the pandemic, it has received recommendation of the National Health Service in the U.K. for patient safety in the current situation.

The development of hands-free barcode readers combined with digital eyewear is creating new frontiers in the barcode readers market. This product variant has received overwhelming response from retail and logistics sectors for efficient operations.

Nonetheless, 2D image-based barcode readers continue to witness substantial demand for sorting applications. Manufacturers in the barcode readers market are engaged in product innovation to overcome the shortcomings of predecessor products. The launch of AV500 imager from Datalogic Group for high-speed sorting applications is a case in point.

Near Field Communication (NFC) Market Worth USD 30 Billion by 2026

 

According to a comprehensive research report by Market Research Future (MRFR), the Near Field Communication Market size is to reach USD 30 billion, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 17% by 2026.

Near field communications (NFCs) are communication protocols used in helping devices communicate with each other within a distance of 4 cm. The contactless nature of the technology and its scope during the COVID-19 pandemic can drive its demand over the forecast period (2020-2027). The report on the global near field communications market by Market Research Future (MRFR) reveals various insights and trends for the industry.

Mobile commerce is expanding owing to convenience provided to users to make payments through mobile phones as well as adequate support given to banks. Large number of smartphone users as well as number of businesses supporting point-of-sale (POS) machines can drive market demand significantly. In addition, use of retail stores in malls to dole out alerts through NFC to interested users can lead to high footfall.

NFC does have not possess adequate security protocols for safeguarding user information. Transfer of malware applications via contactless payment methods can be a major cause for hesitancy among users. In addition, the need to be within a distance of 4cm or less is another issue for users. Alternatives such as Wi-Fi can pose to be a huge threat to market growth.

NHS app launches barcode scanner to help make healthier food choices

An newly introduced NHS app will enable families to make healthier food choices by scanning barcodes and suggesting more health-conscious alternatives.

The app will scan barcodes of selected shopping items and show alternatives with less saturated fat, sugar or salt.

Statistics from the National Child Measurement Programme showed that one in four (approximately 28 per cent) children of reception school age are overweight or obese, with this figure rising to four in 10 (41 per cent) among 10 to 11-year-olds.

Ports in US and Hong Kong add contactless ‘self-service immigration’ channels

Passengers disembarking from international cruise ships at the US port of New Orleans can now verify their identity on entry to the country using biometric face recognition technology rather than by presenting physical documents to immigration officers.

Hong Kong also expands its face recognition non-touch e-channel service for residents re-entering the territory to entry control points at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

The New Orleans service has been introduced by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Carnival Cruise Line and uses facial biometric technology that verifies the traveller’s identity within two seconds and is more than 98% accurate.

IoT Connectivity Picks Up Steam with NXP’s Tri-radio Solution

NXP has released its IW612, a secure tri-radio device offering simultaneous support for Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and 802.15.4.

The goal of the IW612 is to improve interoperability in IoT devices by allowing designers to support the protocols on a single piece of hardware.

To achieve this versatility, the IW612 leverages a highly integrated radio frequency (RF) front end consisting of subsystems for each of the three protocols.

The Wi-Fi subsystem consists of a Wi-Fi MAC (media access control), baseband, a dedicated Wi-Fi CPU (central processing unit), and a direct-conversion radio featuring an integrated power amplifier, low noise amplifier, and transmit/receive switch.

Panthronics' PTX100W enables reliable NFC charging of impact-sensing mouthguard

Panthronics AG, a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high performance wireless technology, revealed that wearable device manufacturer Prevent Biometrics has adopted Panthronics' NFC wireless charging solution in the next generation of its innovative head impact monitoring product.

The solution, based on Panthronics' PTX100W NFC Charger IC, offers the market's best charging performance when the coil in the charger (or 'poller') and in the charged device (or 'listener') are imperfectly aligned.

Minneapolis, US-based Prevent Biometrics manufactures the Prevent Impact Monitoring Mouthguard (IMM). Prevent's head impact monitoring system is the market leading solution for accurately tracking head impacts in sports and the military. Worn by athletes in contact sports such as rugby, hockey, lacrosse and football, and by soldiers in training activities, the mouthguard measures the intensity, frequency, location and angle of impacts to the head. This enables organizations to monitor the level of head impacts which take place, and to identify individuals who have sustained a large impact or a high number of impacts to better manage their risk of concussion.

The mouthguard includes the sensor system, Bluetooth connectivity and the wireless charging system on a PCB embedded in the mouthguard.

By using the Panthronics PTX100W in the charging case, Prevent Biometrics is able to maintain optimal charging performance when the coils are misaligned, even if they are as much as 13mm apart. Mike Shogren, Chief Executive Officer at Prevent Biometrics, said: 'Rigorous evaluation of the PTX100W in pre-development indicated that it offered better out-of-alignment performance than any other commercial NFC charger IC. Final production samples validate our promise that customers will get reliable wireless charging with the new Prevent IMM, thanks to the PTX100W.

Huawei launches NFC and Bluetooth digital keys for electric smart car

Drivers of Huawei’s new AITO M5 electric smart car will be able to lock, unlock and start their vehicle using NFC and Bluetooth-enabled digital car keys.

As of today, the digital car keys are only available on HarmonyOS 2.0 Huawei smartphones.

Huawei is planning to add this functionality to its Huawei Watch 3 series too as it would be more convenient for drivers to unlock their cars with a twist of a wrist compared to taking your smartphone out and clicking a button.

Identiv Partners with collectID to Authenticate Collectible Atlético Mineiro Football Jerseys

Identiv, Inc. announced its expanded partnership with collectID to enable product authentication, verification, and a connected consumer experience to collectible football jerseys via embeddable near field communication (NFC) life-of-garment tags.

2021 Copa Do Brasil winning football team Atlético Mineiro now equips 120,000 collectible jerseys with Identiv NFC tags. The tags verify jersey authenticity and also enable an engaging experience for fans via the IoT, allowing them to digitally interact with the team.
Atlético Mineiro is the first of many professional teams Identiv and collectID will partner with to integrate embeddable NFC life-of-garment tags.

Identiv selected NFC tags featuring the highest security level based on NXP NTAG 424 DNA chips. The unique antenna design and tag conversion allows easy integration into jerseys, and other clothing, and can withstand rigorous wash and dry cycles. NTAG 424 DNA NFC tags are also ideal for anti-counterfeiting and verifying proof of ownership, providing a personalized experience within each interaction and drawing the brand and consumer closer through each unique digital experience.

According to OECD data, 2022 worldwide annual sales of counterfeit goods is expected to total a staggering $4.2 trillion. Fear of fake products undermines consumer confidence in brands and makes it difficult to sell items on the secondary market. collectID solves this problem by combining blockchain with Identiv NFC technologies and providing a complete product authentication ecosystem.

USD 2.29 bn growth in Automatic Identification and Data Capture Market

 

The US is the key market for automatic identification and data capture market in North America. Market growth in this region will be faster than the growth of the market in other regions.

The rising adoption of concepts such as smart factories, which are embracing the adoption of automatic identification and data capture systems will facilitate the automatic identification and data capture market growth in North America over the forecast period.

The automatic identification and data capture market size is expected to increase by USD 2.29 billion from 2021 to 2026, registering a CAGR of 8.60%, according to the latest research report from Technavio.

In end-user segments such as industrial and retail, data entry and the database of the equipment or product are managed manually, which is a time-consuming process and leads to an increase in errors and inaccuracy. However, with the help of RFID, users can record and recognize the database of the product with better precision. Industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing require an accurate database of products, which aids in better decision-making. End-users can also rectify errors in entering data with the help of RFID tags, which is increasing their application across industries. For instance, currently, many hospitals use barcodes to create unique IDs. This helps in maintaining a record of a patient's medical history.

Banks to pilot biometric payment cards in India, Poland, Lebanon and Egypt

Banks in India, Poland, Iraq, Mexico, Lebanon and Egypt are among those set to trial biometric payment cards, according to NFCW.

Iraq’s International Network for Cards and Digital Payment Services (INC) is to trial a biometric-enabled version of its Neo Visa card as well as offer biometric payments cards to client banks in the Iraqi market.

The trials in India, Iraq, Mexico, Lebanon and Egypt follow a series of deals signed by the service providers in these territories with Norway-based biometric card technology provider Zwipe.

Fagron Sterile Services provides automated data access to help hospitals adopt RFID for visibility

Pharmaceutical compounding company Fagron Sterile Services (FSS) is preparing to build radio frequency identification technology into some of its single-use drugs, beginning in February 2022.

Hospitals employing Kit Check RFID systems can then automatically capture data regarding those products and track inventory, expirations dates and recalls.

Fagron Sterile Services entered the U.S. market for compounding in 2010. It sells products directly to hospitals or physicians, Olsheim explains, and it provides medications to millions of patients around the world annually. Recently, some of its customers have requested that FSS build passive UHF RFID tags into the labels of its products so they can be automatically read via Kit Check's RFID-enabled Scanning Stations when the goods are received at hospitals.

Revenues for Third Party IoT Platforms to Grow at a CAGR of 25.2 Percent from $3.75 Billion in 2020 to $11.56 Billion in 2025

 

IoT platforms provide developers with tools to connect and manage devices and integrate collected data into various applications and services. These platforms are intended to reduce the cost and development time for IoT solutions by providing standardised components that enterprises can build upon. Broadly speaking, most IoT platforms fall into one of the following three categories: connectivity management platforms, device management platforms and application enablement platforms.

Connectivity management platforms (CMPs) allow mobile operators to support their enterprise customers by providing functionality for provisioning, subscription management, cost monitoring and event management.

About 67 percent of the global installed base of 1.74 billion IoT SIMs were managed using commercial connectivity management platforms (CMPs) at the end of 2020. Huawei is the leading IoT CMP vendor in terms of volume with close ties to the domestic operator's China Mobile and China Telecom and managed over 900 million IoT SIMs in Q2-2021. Whale Cloud, formerly known as ZTEsoft and partly owned by Alibaba Group since 2018, is the runner up on the Chinese market. Cisco is the dominant IoT CMP vendor outside of China with about 180 million connections in mid-2021, followed by Vodafone and Ericsson.

Several players have entered the IoT CMP market in recent years. Mavoco delivers the IoT CMP of Nokia's WING offering, a managed service leveraging a global core network. Similarly, EMnify's and floLIVE's product concepts encompass IoT CMPs and distributed core networks deployed in key countries and regions. 1NCE provides an IoT CMP offering since mid-2019 for third-party service providers that want to address high-volume, low bandwidth use cases.

Addressing enterprise pain points related to multi-platform SIM deployments, IoTM provides a bring-your-own MNO platform, enabling the management of large-scale SIM deployments through integrations with third-party CMPs. IoT CMPs are also a key component in the value proposition from IoT managed service providers such as Aeris, KORE, Wireless Logic, Cubic Telecom and Sierra Wireless.

Illinois Offering SMART Health Cards To Prove Vaccination Status

Illinois residents have a new option to show they’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19 as proof of vaccination mandates are about to go into effect in Chicago and most of suburban Cook County next week.

The Illinois Department of Public Health offers a SMART Health Card through the Vax Verify portal, which allows users to create a QR code on their smartphone, which can be scanned at restaurants, bars, gyms, and other indoor businesses requiring proof of vaccination.

To access the SMART Health Card, you just need to create an account at idphportal.illinois.gov, and register with your personal information to access your full immunization records, and create a QR code you can save on your phone.

Businesses that use SMART Health Card apps can then scan that code to confirm your vaccination status.

USD 2.97 Billion Growth in Self-service Kiosk Market Size

According to the recent market study by Technavio, the Self-service Kiosk Market Share in Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals Industry is expected to increase by USD 2.97 billion from 2020 to 2025, with an accelerated CAGR of 6%. The report provides a detailed analysis of drivers & opportunities, top winning strategies, competitive scenario, future market trends, market size & estimations, and major investment pockets.

North America will register the highest growth rate of 41% among the other regions. US and Canada are the key markets for self-service kiosk. Moreover, market growth in North America will be faster than the growth of the market in other regions.

One of the key factors driving growth in the self-service kiosk market is the increasing adoption of contactless payment. Contactless payment is a payment method through which customers can purchase products via credit cards, debit cards, or NFC-enabled devices such as smartphones and smartwatches. Contactless payment provides customers with a fast, convenient, and secure way to complete transactions. It also helps merchants improve the in-store payment experience by reducing the time taken to make payments and, eventually, the waiting time. The rise in the use of contactless payments, contactless cards, and mobile payments is expected to drive the demand for self-service kiosks.

Mumbai Gets Chalo Mobile App

Chalo, an India-based bus transport technology company, recently launched its eponymous app in Mumbai in collaboration with Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST) Undertaking.

The  ‘Chalo mobile app’ and ‘BEST Chalo’ tap-to-pay digital smart card (in compliance with National Common Mobility Card  or NCMC) was recently launched by Maharashtra Tourism and Environment Minister Aditya Thackeray.

Facilitating effortless and convenient bus travel, the smart card will allow BEST passengers to recharge, purchase and renew BEST bus tickets and passes, respectively, through an e-wallet. Passengers can also get details like real-time tracking of buses, how congested it is, along with expected time of arrival.

UnionPay, VNPAY, ECPay Bringing Contactless QR Code Payments to Vietnam

Global payment network UnionPay announces partnerships with leading innovative payments acquirers VNPAY and ECPay to deploy UnionPay Quick Response (QR) Code at close to 15K merchants all over Vietnam. These collaborations will significantly enhance the existing 45K merchant network that already accepts UnionPay QR Code for payment. The small, medium and big merchants enabled with UnionPay QR Code payment spans across a wide range of industry verticals ranging from convenient store, electricity service, F&B, healthcare, mini-mart, provision shop, retail, supermarket, telco and more.

UnionPay kickstarted the nationwide deployment of the EMV-compliant QR Code for payments at merchants in Vietnam in 2018 to pave way for its foray into innovative payment products and services. In late 2020, UnionPay collaborated with Military Bank (MB) to issue its first Virtual Debit Card to 600K customers in Vietnam, its largest issuance in the market.

To encourage more UnionPay QR Code transactions at merchants, UPI launched a 10% instant discount campaign at VNPAY's merchants for everyday spend categories, including familiar names like Luôn Tươi Sạch, Medicare, Sói Biển, Sữa Tươi, TH True Mart and more.

According to statistics from Vietnam's Department of Telecommunications, the country had 132.5 million active mobile subscriber accounts at end 2020, even though total population is less than 100 million. So mobile and innovative payments like QR Code for payment are expected to be readily adopted by Vietnamese consumers and businesses across Vietnam, even in the rural, remote and isolated areas.