Avassa Unveils Unique Application Management Solution for Industrial IoT Vendors

Industrial IoT is transforming. Software operations are moving from proprietary operating systems to Linux and fully containerized, future-proof IIoT applications. Meanwhile, there is increased market demand for both online and offline non-stop operations, as well as fast and remote support and maintenance. This requires new and high standards for delivering next-generation software-lead industrial IoT solutions.

The new Avassa for Industrial IoT solution harnesses the power of container technology to bring ease of use, and scalability to industrial machinery vendors. The solution builds off of the Avassa Edge Platform and is expertly crafted to meet the demands of next-generation industrial IoT launches, offering a suite of features that include:           

Full Application Lifecycle Management: Enables vendors to adopt a true as-a-service delivery model, managing the entire lifecycle of industrial IoT applications.           
Competitive Advantage and Innovation Boost: Fully remote deployments, versioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting, allowing frequent feature roll-outs and increased speed of innovation.           
Cost-efficient and Robust Application Operations: Full application autonomy makes operations resilient to unstable connectivity and significantly mitigates the business impact of cloud delivery disruptions.           
Seamless Linux and Hardware Integration: Enhances capabilities at the IoT edge, supporting OS upgrades and aligning with diverse vendor hardware solutions.           
Advanced Data Protection: Ensures the security of sensitive data in-flight and at rest, addressing critical Edge IoT system challenges.           
Expertise in Distributed Edge Computing: Offers a platform ideal for diverse industrial host deployment, backed by 24/7 expert support.

Avassa for Industrial IoT is tailored for industrial machinery vendors who offer a combination of hardware and software in their integrated solutions and seek a sophisticated tool for managing containerized applications across their customer base.

PETLIBRO Introduces the One RFID Pet Feeder for Personalized Pet Meals

PETLIBRO, a smart pet supply brand, has unveiled the latest addition to its innovative product line – the One RFID Pet Feeder. The state-of-the-art pet feeder, equipped with radio frequency identification (RFID) pet recognition technology, sets a new standard for managing individual needs in multi-pet households.

The One RFID Pet Feeder confirms a pet's identity through an RFID tag that's placed on their collar, before opening the food bowl lid for food to be served. This ensures individual pets receive the right nutrition at the right time, and addresses prevalent challenges common in multi-pet households, including food theft, food aggression, weight management, and the need to separate prescription food.

With a lifetime log that records the time and frequency of meals, pet parents have full visibility of how much food their pets consume. In the dedicated PETLIBRO app, this mealtime data can be filtered by days, weeks, or months, and generate useful insights for a better understanding of a pet's eating habits. This may also raise awareness towards abnormal pet eating patterns for earlier intervention.

With the ability to schedule up to 10 meals per day, pet owners can easily adjust feeding schedules according to their pets' needs. Each meal can be adjusted according to the number of portions pet owners choose (1/8 cup per meal), ensuring precise and tailored feeding for each pet.

With the PETLIBRO app, pet parents can sync their pet's name to the One RFID Pet Feeder's LED display, illuminating the room with their pet's presence. In addition, the dedicated collar also features a QR code with the pet's information and owner's contact information, making it easier for pets to reunite with their owners if they get lost.

Priced at $149.99 with the inclusion of one collar tag, the One RFID Feeder is available at PETLIBRO's official website and Amazon.

Allbirds enhances inventory accuracy with RFID

Allbirds, a San Francisco-based footwear brand, is using RFID technology to improve item-level inventory tracking between warehouses and stores. The company is utilizing the RFID-based inventory intelligence solution from Sensormatic Solutions, a Johnson Controls company.

Since implementing the Sensormatic Solutions Supply Chain Visibility RFID cloud-based inventory management system in 2022, Allbirds has achieved up to 99% inventory accuracy in the U.S. retail stores where it has been launched. The retailer is also reducing overall in-store inventory through just-in-time supply chain management.

Allbirds is tracking enterprise-wide product movement from warehouse to store to streamline merchandising programs, coordinate short-range deliveries, and support associates on the floor.

The retailer also intends to enable future omnichannel execution utilizing Sensoramatic Solutions RFID technology, which uses support from solutions such as Google Cloud BigQuery to provide item-level inventory visibility and operational insights.

Interactive Kiosk Market worth $48.8 billion by 2029

The global interactive kiosk market was valued at USD 31.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 48.8 billion by 2029; it is expected to register a CAGR of 8.9% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets.

The rise in demand for interactive kiosk systems is attributed to the rising demand for self-service in banking and financial services, enhanced applications over conventional services, and enhanced shopping experience for customers.

The software & services segment accounted for the larger share of ~64% of the interactive kiosk market in 2029. The software enables the user to interact with hardware and perform tasks. In interactive kiosks, software solutions allow customers to access required information through a user interface; different software solutions can be deployed to design customized interactive kiosks for meeting the specific requirements of the customers with improved security. Also, interactive kiosks need timely maintenance. Services offered in the interactive kiosk market include planning, deployment, installation, training, maintenance, system/program upgrade, and technical support.

Indoor segment accounted for the larger share of ~65% of the interactive kiosk market in 2029. Indoor kiosks are designed to enhance user convenience, streamline processes, and provide information efficiently. These kiosks are designed to provide information, services, or transactions to users without the need for direct human assistance. When a business is short on space, an indoor interactive kiosk can be a viable alternative. Desktop kiosks are perfect for environments with limited floor and wall space and for locations that need flexibility.

By Panel size: The 17" to 32" segment to account for the larger market share in the forecasted year.

The 17" to 32" segment accounted for the largest market share of ~36% in 2029. These kiosks are widely used in various verticals and currently holds a larger market share. In restaurants, these kiosks are used as menu boards to display prices, ingredients, and waiting time for customers' orders. In the healthcare sector, many interactive healthcare smart displays are specially designed for the hospital environment. Companies offering interactive kiosks with 17" to 32" panel sizes include KIOSK Information Systems (US); Source Technologies (US); Olea Kiosks (US); Frank Mayer & Associates, Inc. (US); and Embross (Canada).

The vending kiosk accounted for the largest market share of ~64% in 2029. The growth is attributes to vending kiosk as they offer instant gratification, eliminating the need to wait in line at traditional stores. This is particularly appealing to busy individuals with hectic schedules. Fast-paced lifestyles and increased urbanization drive the demand for convenient and readily available food and beverage options. As these factors continue to evolve, we can expect the demand for vending machines to rise even further in the years to come.

Global RFID Market Growth Projection to 203

As the industry navigates through increasing demands, the surge in hybrid RFID solutions is anticipated to address the limitations typically faced with single-technology systems. This evolution is poised to bolster the RFID market growth, backed by the integration of RFID technology with existing networks like Wi-Fi or GPS, thus minimizing the need for additional infrastructural investments. Such innovations underscore the transition towards RFID-enabled IoT solutions, further propelled by the diminishing costs of RFID tags, the ubiquitous utilisation of IP networks, and the broadening scope of commercial opportunities.

In 2022, the 8-inch wafer size segment demonstrated a significant market share, accredited to the wide-scale production of 8-inch (or 200 mm) wafers by leading manufacturers. With the expected reduction in costs of 12-inch wafers, the market could witness a paradigm shift, easing the transition for industry players to adapt to larger wafer sizes, fundamentally impacting chip manufacturing processes.

The market segment for ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID tags is poised to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period. Supported by advanced passive and active tag technologies, these tags serve key applications ranging from asset tracking to inventory management and supply chain enhancements.

The versatility and heightened efficiency of UHF tags ensure their prominence across diverse industry verticals, attributing to the segment's rapid growth and substantial contribution to the overall market prognosis.

Asset Tracking Market Projected to Reach USD 54.3 Billion by 2030 with Evolving Cloud-Based Solutions

The Asset Tracking Market is currently undergoing transformative changes with the integration of innovative technologies that optimize asset management across diverse industries. Real-time data gathering, provided through precise tracking tools such as GPS and RFID, has significantly improved decision-making efficiency, risk mitigation, and process optimization. The result is an industry that contributes to enhanced productivity, resource allocation, and compliance with regulations.

An important aspect of this growth is the surge in demand for cloud-based deployment. Modern asset tracking systems leverage cloud computing for its scalability, security, and efficiency. Organizations are particularly drawn to the reduced overhead costs as cloud-based solutions eliminate the need for large-scale hardware investments.

Geographically, North America is a vital hub for the asset tracking ecosystem. The region's advanced manufacturing, paired with dynamic transportation and logistics, supports the sophisticated application of asset management technologies. In particular, the United States is at the forefront of adopting such innovations, with the Federal Highway Association (FHWA) and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) being key players.

Industrial Sensors Market worth $42.1 billion by 2029

The Industrial sensor market is projected to grow from USD 27.9 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 42.1 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2024 to 2029 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™.

Many industries are subject to stringent regulations and safety standards that necessitate the use of high-performance industrial sensors. These sensors help ensure compliance with environmental regulations, monitor hazardous materials, prevent accidents, and protect worker safety.

The increasing focus on environmental sustainability and worker safety further drives the demand for reliable and accurate sensor technologies eventually driving the market for industrial sensors.

Contact type industrial sensors are a traditional technology and are, therefore, a mature market. Increasing demand for contact type sensors for a wide range of applications like manufacturing, chemical, oil & gas, and pharmaceutical. Contact sensors are crucial for precise monitoring and control of various pharmaceutical processes, such as mixing, blending, and packaging. This ensures product quality, consistency, and compliance with strict regulatory standards. Factors such as these are likely to further boost the growth of the segment.

Image sensors are used in industries for two main applications, i.e., machine vision and industrial surveillance. This increases the demand for high-resolution imaging, image sensors consist of microlenses which are placed on top of each pixel to focus light onto the sensor, reducing image distortion and improving sharpness. Advanced microlens designs can further optimize light gathering and improve image quality. Hence factors such as these are driving the market for image sensors in the market.

Industrial sensors provide real-time data on various parameters like temperature, pressure, flow, and level, enabling precise control and optimization of production processes. This data-driven approach helps manufacturers, reduce waste by optimizing resource utilization and preventing overproduction, minimize downtime with predictive maintenance, identify potential equipment failures before they occur, optimize energy consumption by monitoring and adjusting energy usage patterns, improve overall plant performance by identifying and eliminating bottlenecks in production processes. The ability of industrial sensors to significantly improve efficiency, productivity, and product quality is driving their adoption in the manufacturing industries.

CGI's Machine Vision solution delivers a powerful source of IoT business intelligence

CGI announces the launch of new computer vision solution, CGI Machine Vision, which uses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform asset and infrastructure monitoring. The solution enables organizations across industries to improve processes, increase efficiencies and reduce costs by generating business intelligence not previously possible through traditional monitoring solutions or human-only inspection.

CGI Machine Vision, developed by CGI AI experts in Australia, uses deep neural network AI and edge-computing technologies to extract data from Internet of Things (IoT) sensors. Data captured by cameras, drones, and other IoT devices is processed by AI at the site of its collection and only relevant data is pushed to data operations. Edge-computing eliminates transmission delays and bandwidth concerns. With this real-time and relevant data, organizations benefit from deeper levels of data analysis, enabling the adoption of predictive and proactive operational models.

With CGI Machine Vision, industries such as utilities, transportation, and telecommunications can continuously monitor remote infrastructure, identifying foliage incursion, deterioration through wear and tear, and other issues more effectively. Further, enabling computer vision on moving platforms, such as trains and trucks, improves citizen safety. In addition, CGI Machine Vision increases worker safety by monitoring safety compliance and threats.

The Australian launch of CGI Machine Vision follows several successful pilots, including in the United Kingdom where it has been used by water treatment operators to enhance existing alert systems and provide real-time monitoring of remote and unattended sites.

CGI Machine Vision can be deployed on a range of vision capture devices and other sensors, and its AI-processed output can be tailored to integrate with a variety of client applications. The flexibility of the solution addresses a broad range of computer vision-oriented business challenges.

A system designed at MIT could allow sensors to operate in remote settings, without batteries

Credit: Christine Daniloff, MIT

MIT researchers have developed a battery-free, self-powered sensor that can harvest energy from its environment. The sensor can be embedded in hard-to-reach places, like inside the inner workings of a ship’s engine, to gather data on the machine’s power consumption and operations for long periods of time.

The temperature-sensing device harvests energy from the magnetic field generated in the open air around a wire. One could simply clip the sensor around a wire that carries electricity and it will automatically harvest and store energy which it uses to monitor the motor’s temperature.

According to Steve Leeb, the Emanuel E. Landsman Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and professor of mechanical engineering, the sensor is easy to install because it requires no special wiring.

In the paper, which appeared as the featured article in the January issue of the IEEE Sensors Journal, the researchers offer a design guide for an energy-harvesting sensor that lets an engineer balance the available energy in the environment with their sensing needs.

The versatile design framework is not limited to sensors that harvest magnetic field energy, and can be applied to those that use other power sources, like vibrations or sunlight. It could be used to build networks of sensors for factories, warehouses, and commercial spaces that cost less to install and maintain.

EU calls for feedback on proposed settlement with Apple over NFC chip access

Apple has proposed to settle the European Commission’s Case AT.40452 - Mobile Payments by providing a new set of APIs that approved developers will be able to use to provide a host card emulation-based alternative to Apple Pay — free of charge. The company has offered the following commitments to address the Commission’s competition concerns 1:

To allow third-party mobile wallet and payment service providers to access and interoperate through a set of Application Programming Interfaces (‘APIs’) with the NFC functionality on iOS devices free of charge, without having to use Apple Pay or Apple Wallet. Apple would create the necessary APIs to allow equivalent access to the NFC components in the so-called Host Card Emulation (‘HCE’) mode, a technology issued to securely store payment credentials and complete transactions using NFC, without relying on an in-device secure element.

To apply the commitments to all third-party mobile wallet app developers established in the European Economic Area (‘EEA’) and all iOS users with an Apple ID registered in the EEA. Apple will not prevent the use of these apps for payments in stores outside the EEA.

To provide additional features and functionalities, including defaulting of preferred payment apps, access to authentication features such as FaceID and a suppression mechanism.

To apply fair, objective, transparent, and non-discriminatory eligibility criteria to grant NFC access to third-party mobile wallet app developers, who will have to conclude an ADP license agreement to have access.

To establish a dispute settlement mechanism under which Apple’s decisions denying access to NFC input will be reviewed by independent experts.

The commitments offered by Apple would remain in force for ten years. Their implementation would be monitored by a monitoring trustee, who will report regularly to the Commission.

Hydrific Unveils First Product, Droplet - A Cutting-Edge Smart Home Water Usage Sensor

Hydrific, part of LIXIL, announced the launch of its first product, Droplet, a water usage sensor designed to make water conservation both simple and smart. This powerful tool monitors water consumption in homes from a single point, providing real-time data and actionable insights. It empowers homeowners, renters, and property managers to use water efficiently, reduce utility bills, and proactively prevent water damage.

Droplet, which comes to market following the launch of Hydrific in December 2023, is an affordable, non-invasive smart home water monitor that captures high-precision data at a rate of 50 times per second. Its user-friendly app provides comprehensive dashboards and AI-powered analysis for easy interpretation and action. Its patent-pending algorithms detect unusual patterns, alerting users to potential leaks, inefficient water usage, or unexpected high consumption, enabling immediate action to prevent water waste and serious damage.

In the U.S., water costs are rising three times faster than inflation, and 17% of Americans struggle to afford basic water services, underscoring the urgency of tools like Droplet. Additionally, a recent survey by LIXIL brand GROHE revealed that 40% of Americans don't think they know enough about how to save water in their everyday lives – a gap Droplet aims to address by educating users and promoting sustainable practices.

Machine Condition Monitoring Market to grow by USD 1.14 billion from 2022 to 2027

The machine condition monitoring market is to grow by USD 1.14 billion between 2023 and 2027 and register a CAGR of 7.17%, according to Technavio's latest market research report estimates. Wireless communication gaining momentum in industries is a key factor driving the market growth.

This spurred the creation of wireless devices for extracting and swiftly transmitting data from machinery, particularly in situations where installing cables is impractical or expensive. Suppliers promote wireless communication adoption through advancements and cost-effectiveness.

The on-premises segment will account for a major share of the market's growth during the forecast period. With on-premise solutions, organizations gain greater control over their data and ensure that it remains within physical boundaries. Furthermore, local data processing is possible with On-premises solutions without the need to depend on outside connections.

Warehouse Automation Market Opportunities worth $44 Billion by 2028

According to LogisticsIQ latest market research and analysis, the warehouse automation market is expected to touch the mark of $44 Billion by 2028, at a CAGR of almost 15% between 2023 and 2028.

The growth of this market can be attributed to the growth in the e-commerce industry, multichannel distribution channels, digital services, e-grocery penetration with dark stores & ultrafast delivery services, globalization of supply chain networks, emergence of autonomous mobile robots and rising need for same day / same hour delivery.

The boom in e-commerce is compounding the major labour challenges faced by the $5T global logistics industry. Not only are shipment volumes growing rapidly, but online retail also typically requires more logistical work per item than brick & mortar retail. Indeed, online purchases require individual picking, packing and shipping, as opposed to the bulk transportation models of traditional brick & mortar retail.

The past 5-10 years have seen an increase in consolidation amongst material handling equipment providers as traditional players see acquisition of new technology leaders as an increasingly attractive way of positioning themselves in response to changing market trends. Acquisitions like Rockwell Automation (Clearpath Robotics, OTTO Motors), Jungheinrich (Magazino), SSI Schafer (DS Automotion), Zebra (Fetch Robotics, Matrox), ABB (ASTI Mobile Robotics, Sevensense), Toyota (Vanderlande, Bastian Solutions, ViaStore), Murata Machinery (Cimcorp), Locus Robotics (Waypoint), Hitachi (JR Automation), KPI Solutions (Kuecker Logistics Group, Pulse Integration, QC Software), Ocado (6 River Systems, Kindred, Haddington Dynamics), Element Logic (SDI), Honeywell (Intelligrated, Transnorm), Körber (Cohesio Group, Siemens Logistics, HighJump), Teradyne (MiR, Energid, AutoGuide Mobile Robots), Jungheinrich (Arculus), KION (Dematic), KUKA (Swisslog) are just some of the examples of this consolidation.

NFC Forum to develop Digital Product Passport standard

The NFC Forum is developing a Digital Product Passport (DPP) standard that would enable electronic goods manufacturers to use NFC tags and chips to provide merchants and consumers with reliable and robust access to information on how a product can be reused, remanufactured, or recycled throughout its lifecycle1.

The proposed NFC DPP standard will allow manufacturers to use NFC tags and chips to create a link between their products and in-depth DPP data stored online and is designed to support emerging regulatory requirements, beginning with the European Commission’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Product Regulations (ESPR).

The NFC Forum expects that these features will give regulators higher confidence in these systems1. The initial focus of the proposed standard will be on the electronics, battery, and textile sectors.

Apple offers to open iPhone NFC payments to third-party providers

Apple has offered concessions to address a European Commission antitrust investigation. The regulator announced that Apple will let third-party mobile wallet and payment providers access the iPhone’s NFC capabilities. The commitments would end Apple Pay and Apple Wallet’s exclusive access to the iPhone’s NFC payment features.

The Commission is now seeking feedback on the commitments, which come a little over one and a half years after the Commission formally accused Apple of using its iOS policies to restrict competition in the mobile payments market in violation of EU law.

Apple has offered to provide third-party developers in the European Economic Area with an option that will enable their users to make NFC contactless payments from within their iOS apps, separate from Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.

Although Apple does let third-party app developers access the iPhone’s NFC features to read electronic tags, it restricts making payments over NFC to its own software.

Covid-era contactless payment limit rises drove consumer usage

According to a recent study by the Swiss National Bank, the increase in contactless transaction limits during the Covid pandemic led to a significant increase in the use of contactless payments. However, the study also found that the increase in the use of contactless payments did not lead to a significant increase in the adoption of the technology.

The researchers based their analysis on anonymized, transaction-level data for a large sample of point-of-sale debit card payments made in Switzerland between 2019 and 2021. In Switzerland, the tap-and-go limit was doubled from CHF40 to CHF80 in April 2020, which resulted in the share of card payments eligible for tap-and-go suddenly increasing from approximately 60% to 80%.

The study found that the share of contactless transactions increased by 17 percentage points from 44% to 61% following the onset of the pandemic. However, the researchers concluded that the increased tap-and-go limit had only a small effect on first-time adoption of contactless payments.

The authors of the study also found that financial intermediaries, such as card schemes and card-issuing banks, play an important role in consumer adoption and use of payment technology. They suggest that policy-makers should consider the role of intermediaries and verification rules when evaluating payment innovations, such as instant payment systems or central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).

Global QR Code Payment Market Shows Robust Growth with CAGR of 17.03% Through 2028

The latest industry research reveals a significant upward trajectory in the Global QR Code Payment Market, with projected robust growth at a CAGR of 17.03% throughout the forecast period until 2028. Valued at USD 10.28 Billion in 2022, the market is responding to an increasing demand for convenient and secure digital payment solutions.

Analysts note that one of the market's key drivers is the rising demand for contactless transactions, propelled by technological advancements and shifts in consumer behavior. The QR code payment technology is especially gaining traction due to its user-friendly nature, allowing for quick and secure transactions with just a smartphone scan.

The industry's shift towards these convenient and hygienic payment solutions gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic and is expected to continue its upward trend. QR code payments have been integrated into a diverse range of services—including retail, e-commerce, hospitality—and offer a promising outlook for both consumers and businesses seeking efficiency and enhanced security features.

The Asia Pacific region is leading the market, driven by factors such as high smartphone penetration, rising levels of urbanization, and government initiatives promoting digital payments. China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam are recognized as key contributors to the region's QR code payment adoption rates. Analysts assert that while the Asia Pacific is at the forefront, North America and Europe are also exhibiting steady growth. Innovations in QR code payment solutions are expected to further galvanize the market across these regions.

With convenience, security, and cost-effectiveness at the core, the Global QR Code Payment Market is primed to reach new heights, reshaping the landscape of financial transactions and consumer behaviors for the coming decade. As digital payment solutions continue to evolve, QR code payments are distinguished as pivotal in crafting seamless and secure payment experiences. The wide-spanning research offers deep dives into the market's offerings, payment types, end-users, and regional segments, promising comprehensive insights into this dynamic industry.

    The appeal of streamlined, contactless transactions for consumers and businesses alike.
    Cost-effective solutions afforded by QR code payment technology for various business sizes.
    Security enhancements, creating a trustworthy payment environment for users.
    A marked surge in QR code adoption amidst the pandemic, which is set to continue post-pandemic.
    Integration of QR code payment methods into e-commerce and mobile applications.
    Cross-border transactions facilitated by QR code payment standardization and interoperability.

Global level sensor market size is anticipated to reach USD 8.37 billion by 2030

The global level sensor market size is anticipated to reach USD 8.37 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 7.3% over the forecast period. The food industry has traditionally lagged behind other industries in adopting new technologies. However, growing advancements in computer technology, coupled with stringent regulations for improved food quality and safety, have resulted in the rising need to automate manufacturing processes, thereby leading to an increased demand for level sensors in the food processing industry.

The production and processing of food and beverages are governed by networks of law codes, practices, regulations, and guidance to reduce the risk of delivering potentially harmful products to consumers. In food processing industries, the pressure and level measurement are required in the filter, tanks, and piping. Pressure instruments include numerous applications, such as maintaining the balance of silos, storage tanks, flavor systems, filling machines, mixing processes, and pasteurization, among others.

Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), a part of non-contact type sensors, is expected to witness considerable growth over the projected period. MEMS sensors are expected to play a key role in the automotive safety and infotainment applications. The need for higher accuracy, rapid data transmission, and self-test capabilities are the key factors driving the demand for MEMS in automotive applications.

Nanotechnology-enabled sensors are offering physical, chemical, and biological sensing features that enable an increased level of detection specificity, portability, and sensitivity for a wide range of safety and environmental measurements. The U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) recognizes the considerable potential for nanotechnology, which has triggered the development of portable devices that can rapidly detect, quantify, and identify chemical and biological substances.

NNI has launched Nanotechnology Signature Initiatives (NSI) that is integrated with NNI to explore the use of nanotechnology for the following:

    To overcome technical barriers associated with conventional sensors, nanotechnology and nanoscale materials are used to build more accurate, sensitive, and adaptable sensors.
    New sensors are being developed to detect engineered nanomaterials across their lifecycles to assess their potential impact on health, environment, and safety.

Compliance with regulations and standards in the food & beverage industry is the most demanding challenge for measuring instruments and sensors. Product design must comply with industry guidelines issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Programmable measuring instruments and specialized accessories are likely to drive the level sensor market demand over the forecast period.

Pacsun implements RFID across all stores

Pacsun is rolling out a solution to improve inventory accuracy and make better replenishment decisions at the store level.

The teen apparel and accessories retailer is deploying the iD Cloud Store RFID solution from Nedap in all of its stores, with plans to complete rollout by the end of the first quarter of 2024.

New York-based athletic footwear and apparel retailer Foot Locker Inc. is also deploying the Nedap iD Cloud RFID solution. Foot Locker is implementing iD Cloud across more than 650 stores in Eastern Europe.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) a $47.63 Billion Market by 2030

The global radio frequency identification technology market size is expected to reach USD 47.63 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 15.1% from 2023 to 2030. Various benefits provided by RFID technology, including asset tracking, automation, better control over production, enhanced traceability, increased revenues, and higher operational efficiency, are anticipated to drive the market's growth over the forecast period. RFID technology has been in use for the past several years. However, the recent digitization and overall growth in technological adoption from various industries have propelled RFID technology even further. The retail industry is at the forefront and has witnessed its technological reconnaissance with RFID tags.

The retail industry is leveraging RFID technology in supply chain management for inventory management, tracking, and shortening overall processes. The growing adoption of RFID technology from the retail industry significantly contributes to the market's growth. An essential aspect of the market is the varying nature of manufacturing and related costs. The past decade has seen a considerable reduction in production costs with the advent of many new technologies, such as printing and ink-jet. As the vendors benefit from these trends in the market, the high penetration of cost-to-volume benefits is expected to perpetuate to the end-users, thereby contributing to the market's growth. RFID devices are anticipated to witness a surge in demand as technological proliferation has led to extensive use of smart cards, access control, and other wireless communication applications.

In addition, the proliferation of 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) across industries is creating significant demand for wireless communication and smart devices, subsequently creating market demand for RFID devices. To sum up the trends in the market, RFID technology is anticipated to witness significant growth in the coming years in terms of size, cost, and technology, fueling its rapid deployment. Asia Pacific is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growing e-commerce industry in the region is creating higher demand for reliable supply chain management solutions, which RFID technology can provide. Moreover, favorable government initiatives from countries, such as India and Japan, are driving the infrastructure development of the RFID market in the region, thus contributing to its growth.

Logistics Automation Market size to grow by USD 20.27 billion from 2023 to 2028

The logistics automation market is expected to grow by USD 20.27 billion between 2023 and 2028. However, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 9.41% during the forecast period. The market is segmented by component (hardware, software, and services), end-user (retail and e-commerce, automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and others), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa).

The rising adoption of big data in automated logistics technologies is the key factor driving market growth. This adoption, encompassing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management (SCM), and Transportation Management Systems (TMS), serves as a significant growth driver. The synergy of autonomous vehicles, Inventory Management, Fleet Management, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), and Collaborative Robots (Cobots) within this framework further boost market expansion.

High penetration of robotics in warehouse management is a major trend in the market. This trend intertwines Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning, RFID Technology, Smart Packaging, Augmented Reality (AR), Data Analytics, Real-time Tracking, E-commerce Logistics, Smart Sensors, and Warehouse Automation. The high penetration of robotics reshapes operational efficiency, paving the way for advanced logistics solutions and redefining the landscape of the industry.

The requirement of high initial capital investment is a significant challenge restricting market growth. This challenge reverberates across Predictive Analytics, Order Fulfillment, Blockchain, Drones, Cloud Computing, Last-Mile Delivery, Predictive Maintenance, Route Optimization, Reverse Logistics, and Smart Contracts. The demand for significant financial resources poses a hurdle, hindering the seamless adoption of cutting-edge technologies and impeding the market's overall progression.

Gridserve opens contactless electric vehicle forecourt at Gatwick Airport

Sustainable energy provider Gridserve has opened an electric vehicle charging station at London’s Gatwick Airport that combines 30 vehicle charging bays with a convenience store that uses Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology and a Costa Coffee outlet that allows drivers to pre-order and pay for a coffee that can then be delivered to their charging bay.

The London Gatwick Electric Forecourt is the first EV charging facility of its kind at an international airport 21. The facility is equipped with 22 high power chargers with up to 350kW of power - some of the fastest chargers publicly available today, capable of adding 100 miles of range in only five minutes 1. The chargers are powered by net zero carbon energy.

To make it as easy as possible for customers to charge their EVs, all Gridserve locations feature both CCS and CHAdeMO connectors, accept contactless payment and provide real-time status updates to a myriad of popular EV charging maps.

The convenience store at the London Gatwick Electric Forecourt is a Little Fresh convenience store, Simply Fresh’s small-store format. This latest Electric Forecourt is the first time a Little Fresh convenience store has implemented Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, speeding up the customer journey and giving guests more time to recharge as their vehicles do the same.

Printed Electronics Market to Reach $55.7 Billion Globally by 2032

According to a new report, the global printed electronics market generated $9.4 billion in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $55.7 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 20.1% from 2023 to 2032.

The increasing demand for innovative, flexible electronics and the rising emphasis on touchless technologies in response to health and safety concerns are key factors boosting the growth of the printed electronics market. However, the challenges of limited printing resolution, adaptation difficulties for traditional industries, and the necessity for uniformity in production processes are anticipated to hinder market growth during the forecast period. On the other hand, continuous advancements in material science and printing technology are anticipated to unlock lucrative opportunities, boosting the performance and capabilities of printed electronic devices and driving future market growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the growth trajectory of the global printed electronics market. The increased emphasis on health and safety standards during the pandemic drove a surge in demand for touchless technologies, such as touchless sensors, displays, and flexible electronics.

This increased the demand for printed electronics, particularly in healthcare, retail, and public settings, boosting the innovation and widespread acceptance of printed electronic products.

As remote work became the new norm, the demand for technological equipment, including smart home systems, wearable electronics, and e-learning tools, significantly increased, thus fueling the market growth. The pandemic, although disruptive, ultimately played a role in driving innovation and growth within the printed electronics industry.

The screen-printing sub-segment dominated the global printed electronics market share in 2022, holding a major share of 37.9%. The sub-segment is expected to witness substantial growth in the forecast period mainly due to the increasing integration of screen-printing technologies into vehicle dashboards, mirrors, and windows, enhancing the driving experience and boosting the demand for visually appealing and technologically advanced interior designs.

Photo Bystrikt

Wiliot Showcases the Future of Retail, Running on Ambient IoT, at NRF 2024

Wiliot, the Internet of Things pioneer whose IoT platform is enabling trillions of "things" to gain intelligence, is bringing its industry-changing visibility technology to NRF 2024.

Attendees can see first-hand that retail running on ambient IoT is possible today and experience the real-time supply chain visibility it enables for retailers, manufacturers, distributors — even consumers. Wiliot will showcase real-world applications of its ambient IoT Visibility Platform at NRF booth 6757.

Wiliot's ambient IoT Visibility Platform, recently named one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2023 and Fast Company's 2023 Next Big Things in Tech, connects the digital and physical worlds through the company's IoT Pixels, which are stamp-sized, self-powered compute devices that cost pennies.

These IoT Pixels can attach to any "thing" and connect it to the internet. Not just expensive things like cars, appliances, and shipping containers, but also the things like fruits, veggies, vaccine vials, clothes, crates, and just about everything else.

Once connected, products transmit real-time, item and case-level information about their location, temperature, humidity, and even carbon footprint, giving retailers the data they need to improve supply chain performance, ensure product safety, and optimize staff time.

During NRF 2024, Wiliot will demonstrate ambient IoT in action, tracking products in transit, throughout a warehouse, and within a retail store, showing in each scenario how the data generated yields a host of important benefits. Wiliot's NRF demonstrations will showcase three critical uses that are now scalable thanks to ambient IoT:

Through truck-based IoT gateways and an integrated telematics system, attendees will see how the Wiliot Visibility Platform senses products at a case level as they move through the supply chain. The capability is currently being rolled out by a major U.S. retailer, eliminating misloads, mistaken deliveries, and pervasive handling issues caused by case-level temperature fluctuations. Telematics solution provider: IoT services company Montage Connect.

Real-time location of items in a store. Wiliot's item-level location tracking unlocks a wealth of retail intelligence. NRF 2024 attendees will see how the Wiliot Visibility Platform is reinventing inventory management and store design because staff know exactly what's in-store and where, freeing them to engage with customers in new ways. Avery Dennison's atma.io connected product cloud platform unlocks the power of connected products by assigning unique digital IDs to every item, providing end-to-end traceability.

No-labor compliance with food safety regulations. Wiliot's Visibility Platform automatically generates the traceability data required to meet reporting requirements of Rule 204 of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which goes into effect January 2026. At NRF 2024, Wiliot will demonstrate the platform's ability to capture Critical Tracking Event data (such as accurate receiving events) and support total supply chain and cold chain visibility through digital product passports (DPP) and the company's AI-based Living Web browser, developed in conjunction with iFoodDS and IBM Food Trust.
No-labor inventory sensing enabled by ambient IoT represents a paradigm shift away from current RFID scanning processes. Although it's not a replacement for retail labor, its automation enables vastly superior efficiency and accuracy, allowing retailers and supply chain partners to redeploy valuable workers in business-enhancing roles.

Citizen Announces NEW Barcode and POS Products at NRF 2024

Citizen Systems America Corporation, a manufacturer of world-class printing technology, announces the newest additions to its industrial barcode and POS printer lineup with the release of the CL-S700III, CT-S801III, and CT-S851III at NRF 2024 in New York City.

These newest additions to Citizen's full line of printers will be on display at the company's tradeshow booth #6156 during the show beginning January 14th, 2024.

The CL-S700III, an enhanced version of the well-known CL-S700 series, excels in manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing environments. Improved usability is achieved through a new color LCD touch screen featuring added features like print previewing, shortcuts, and the innovative Live Forms feature. Live Forms enable users to print formatted labels with variable data without a desktop, utilizing the USB host connector to upload data or connect an input device. The CL-S700III range offers various models with 203 or 300dpi, catering to diverse business needs, boasting impressive printing speeds of up to 300mm per second for 203dpi versions and 250mm per second for the 300dpi version.

The new CT-S801III and CT-S851III POS printers set a new industry standard, redefining the optimal mix of speed, affordability, and durability. Matching top competitors, the CT-S801III and CT-S851III now clock in with a maximum print speed of 500mm/sec while retaining the performance and value expected from Citizen products. Equipped with other advanced capabilities such as remote monitoring and maintenance, businesses can efficiently manage their printing infrastructure, minimizing downtime. The inclusion of a standard USB Type B port ensures easy integration with various devices, simplifying the printing process for users. Both of these printers are also disinfectant ready to provide a barrier against the transmission of germs, particularly important in restaurant, hospitality, and healthcare markets.

DENSO ADC, the sales division of DENSO WAVE INC. in the Americas and part of the global DENSO network, has partnered with Citizen Systems America to present the latest in QR Code development, the rectangular Miro QR (rmQR). Made specifically for small and oblong spaces, these Codes are natively produced with the newest Citizen firmware. Citizen Systems is currently the only printer manufacturer to support this format.

DENSO is also showing an evolution in location position recognition, down to as little as a few inches, Server Rack EdgeCooling for reducing energy use & costs, KYC Solutions for compliance, a revolutionary "clean scanner" in AIM's Food Innovation booth, and advanced RFID systems for Inventory & Asset Management.

The CL-S700III, CT-S801III, CT-S851III and other technology partner products will be on display at the company's booth (#6156) and feature various other partnering products to compliment Citizen printers during the NRF tradeshow beginning January 14th, 2024.

McDonald’s China and Cainiao partner on RFID chips

McDonald’s China has partnered with Cainiao, Alibaba Group Holding’s logistics business, to enhance supply chain efficiency using radio frequency identification (RFID) chips and other technologies.

The RFID technology will be deployed in McDonald’s China’s supply chain with built-in tags on food packages, enabling the company to track products from factories to restaurants . According to a statement by Cainiao, a trial project of the RFID technology helped reduce the time needed for stocktaking each day from 1 hour to 15 minutes for restaurants while improving the accuracy of inventory data by 30%.

RFID is a third-generation identification technology, after bar codes and QR codes, and has been widely adopted in supply chain tracking . With a built-in microchip, data is transmitted through radio frequency signals.

Cainiao also mentioned that apart from deploying RFID technology to improve efficiency in inventory and logistics, McDonald’s and Cainiao will also explore digitisation and automation technologies in the supply chain.

BANF, Smart Tire Sensor Company, Wins 2024 CES Innovation Award

BANF proudly unveiled its latest triumph at the esteemed 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) by securing the prestigious Innovation Awards in the Vehicle Tech and Advanced Mobility category. This accomplishment stands as a significant milestone, accentuated by the exclusive recognition granted to only a handful of multinational companies in the fiercely competitive Vehicle Tech and Advanced Mobility sector.

The accolade further illuminates BANF's technological prowess, with industry heavyweights like Continental, FORVIA, Garmin, Hesai Technology, Honda, Magna International, and Valeo sharing the limelight as distinguished awardees. BANF's Smart tire iSensor takes center stage, assuring cost-effective trucking and safer roads through its innovative real-time tire and road analysis. This groundbreaking technology utilizes wireless charging and communication, a 3-axis accelerometer sensor, and an AI adaptive algorithm to provide crucial real-time tire data, tire tread measurement, road condition insights, wheel alignment optimization, and detection of loosen lug nuts conditions.

At CES 2024, held annually in Las Vegas, BANF captured global attention by presenting its revolutionary next-generation smart tire technology. The event serves as the world's largest electronics expo, attracting IT companies worldwide to showcase cutting-edge products and technologies.

BANF is strategically poised to strengthen its global presence, aspiring to take the lead in the next-generation mobility sector through diverse partnerships on both domestic and international fronts. Noteworthy past recognitions, including the 'K-Digital Grand' and triumphs at Seoul Metropolitan City's 'Try Everything 2023,' underline BANF's consistent commitment to innovation and excellence.

Witness BANF's groundbreaking innovations at the CES 2024 Venetian Expo, Eureka Park Booth number 63301, as they continue to shape the future of smart mobility.

Murata Expands Matter-Compliant IoT Connectivity Portfolio

Murata introduced the Type 2FR connectivity module. The solution is driven by NXP Semiconductor's RW612 Wireless MCU with integrated Tri-radio and measures just 12mm x 11mm. Its class-leading integration, efficiency, and tri-radio capabilities represent a breakthrough in IoT connectivity. Target applications include smart home devices, smart appliances, enterprise and industrial automation, and smart city and smart energy solutions.

The Type 2FR supports various communication protocols, including dual-band WiFi 6, Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE) 5.3, 802.15.4, and ethernet. This versatility ensures seamless connectivity and operational efficiency. Additionally, Type 2FR is primed for Matter, enabling compatibility with Matter over WiFi, Matter over Thread, and Matter over Ethernet, simplifying device interoperability and management.

With its built-in 260 MHz Arm® Cortex-M33 core, 1.2 MB of RAM, 16 MB of flash memory, and fortified by NXP EdgeLock® security technology, the Type 2FR establishes a secure environment for a broad spectrum of IoT applications. The module offers the flexibility to operate in co-processor mode. The RW612 is supported by the NXP MCUXpresso ecosystem of software and tools to accelerate development and reduce time-to-market. The solution also boasts full regulatory certification and provides numerous external antenna options, ensuring compliance and reliability.

This announcement represents an expansion of Murata's new class of IoT offerings announced in March. The Type 2EL is a small and high-performance module based on NXP's IW612 combo chipset and supports IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax + Bluetooth 5.3 BR/EDR/LE + 802.15.4. The Type 2DL is based on NXP's IW611 combo chipset and supports IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax + Bluetooth 5.3 BR/EDR/LE.

SparkFun's LTE Stick Packs a u-blox LARA-R6 for Voice and IoT Data

SparkFun has announced a new board which aims to provide connectivity — for both voice and data traffic — in areas where Wi-Fi networks simply don't reach, anywhere across North America: the SparkFun LTE Stick. The stick includes a USB Type-C connector at one end and a pair of antenna connectors at the other, plus 0.1" plated through-hole (PTH) pin headers for UART serial and I2S signals — the latter supporting voice calls through the cellular modem, as well as data messaging.

Smart Card Aims to Improve Efficiency Regarding Patient Care and Medical Records

Brian C. of Middletown, DE is the creator of the MD Patient Registry, a smart card containing a patient's full medical history, including medicines, procedures, and power of attorney information. The card is scanned by a reader at a doctor’s office, hospital, or other medical care facility, and the information would be easily attained and stored by them, rather than filling out paperwork by hand.

Patients can update information on the card with ease to quickly change information regarding their medical history or insurance information. The card works in conjunction with a software program usable by any healthcare provider to receive and upload the information to a secure registry and/or database system. Both patients and medical practitioners will be able to expedite medical care check in processes with a digital registry.

Digital patient registries leverage technology to streamline data collection, management, and analysis, offering several advantages over traditional paper-based registries. Online databases and registries benefit both patients and healthcare providers by saving time and effort during singular and repeat visits. Digital healthcare solutions provide tools for identifying high-risk patients, tracking interventions, and evaluating population health trends. The medical care and insurance industries are multi-billion-dollar industries that are constantly looking for innovations on current tools and products.

Brian filed his Utility Patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and is working closely with InventionHome, a leading invention licensing firm, to sell or license the patent rights to his MD Patient Registry product. Ideal licensing candidates would be U.S. based product manufacturers or distributors looking to further develop and distribute this product innovation.

Total value of digital wallets transactions will rise from $9 trillion in 2023 to surpass $16 trillion in 2028

The total value of digital wallets transactions will rise from $9 trillion in 2023 to surpass $16 trillion in 2028, a rise of 77%. This trend is driven by growth across both developed and developing markets, as the increased adoption of advanced services such as BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later), microloans, and personal financial management drive end-user engagement. In a highly congested wallets landscape, diversifying digital wallets appeal to users is vital.

These advanced services are a key source of revenue growth for digital wallets. BNPL and microloans are allowing digital wallet providers to diversify their revenue. The popularity of BNPL, especially among younger consumers, will draw greater numbers of users, and generate additional revenue. This approach can be seen with Apple's roll-out of numerous add-on services, including Apple Pay Later.

These advanced services give digital wallet providers an opportunity to differentiate themselves in a congested market and generate additional revenue. Super app strategies, which many digital wallets are pursuing, will rely on the effective deployment of advanced services at scale.

Security benefits are a key driver of digital wallet use in eCommerce in developed markets. Many consumers do not wish to enter card information online. With digital wallets, this issue is reduced, as tokenisation enables card and other payment information to be used in a highly secure way. As digital wallets become broader, including elements of digital identity, convenience will play a greater role; enabling wallet services to act as more of an all-inclusive app for financial wellbeing.

Calterah Indoor Human Point Cloud SDK Unlocks Potential of mmWave Radar Indoor Sensing

mmWave radar technology is rapidly gaining traction as the preferred option for indoor human detection applications. It is empowering many aspects of smart life, owing to its remarkable advantages, including strong privacy protection, contactless sensing, and precise detection capabilities, as well as its rich functions of vital sign monitoring, human tracking, posture recognition, etc.

To facilitate customers to utilize the Rhine mmWave radar SoCs to expand the market of indoor mmWave radar applications such as smart home, elderly care, and smart office, the Calterah Indoor Human Point Cloud SDK based on Rhine SoCs has been released. This SDK uses the Rhine SDK architecture and integrates an indoor human detection module. Thanks to the radar signal processing baseband integrated in Rhine SoCs and Calterah's proprietary indoor radar signal processing algorithms, the indoor human detection module can yield rich and high-quality point clouds with powerful sensing.

These point clouds feature strong cohesion for upper-level applications to better differentiate human targets, as well as the ability to depict postures and body movements, facilitating upper-level applications to achieve more advanced indoor radar functions, including fall detection and gesture recognition.

With the Calterah Indoor Human Point Cloud SDK, customers can utilize Rhine mmWave radar SoCs to develop competitive indoor radar products for diverse application scenarios:

Smart Hotel: For hotel scenarios, the Calterah Indoor Human Point Cloud SDK can provide point cloud data to help customers use Rhine SoCs to enable human presence detection, people counting, and human positioning. This technology can empower hotels to achieve precise energy conservation, intelligent management, and intelligent security systems, delivering a smarter and more secure guest experience.

Smart Office: In office scenarios, users can combine the human sensing capability of Calterah Indoor Human Point Cloud SDK with other smart devices, to enable functionalities such as intelligent lighting control, auto power-on/off and smart air direction control of air conditioning, etc. Such intelligent systems can help achieve efficient energy management, assisting enterprises to save energy, reduce costs and carbon emissions, and improve efficiency.

Elderly Care: For home- and community-based elderly care, using the point cloud data output by the Calterah Indoor Human Point Cloud SDK, mmWave radar devices based on Rhine SoCs can provide real-time depiction of human postures and movements, enabling fall detection and helping to ensure the health and safety of the elderly.

International Commuters To Embrace RFID Tags For Seamless Crossings Between Michigan And Ontario

International commuters traveling between Michigan and Ontario will witness a technological leap as the International Bridge and Blue Water Bridge transition from card-based commuter systems to radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags by December 31st.

The International Bridge Association’s CFO, Emily Jacques, assures that this upgrade will streamline the toll process, reducing customer wait times.

In contrast to the previous method of displaying cards to electronic readers, the RFID tags promise a smoother crossing experience.

Global smart locker market estimated to reach USD 3.6 billion by 2028

The global smart locker market was valued at USD 2.1 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 3.6 billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 11.6% during the forecast period.

The growth of the smart lockers market is propelled by the surge in e-commerce activities, increasing urbanization and population density, demand for contactless solutions, and advancements in technology such as IoT and RFID integration. These factors collectively drive the adoption of smart lockers, offering secure and efficient parcel delivery solutions in response to last-mile delivery challenges and the need for streamlined package management.

The rapid growth of e-commerce and online shopping requires constant update in the smart infrastructure. Cloud technology allows for easy scalability. As the demand for smart lockers grows, cloud-based systems can scale up or down seamlessly without the need for significant infrastructure changes. This flexibility supports businesses as they expand or adapt to changing requirements.Furthermore, cloud-based systems typically offer robust security features, such as encryption and secure authentication, to protect user and system data. Integration with other cloud services and remote updates and maintenance further enhances the functionality and efficiency of smart locker systems, ensuring they remain up to date and secure. Cloud-based technology plays a central role in making smart lockers highly adaptable, efficient, and user-friendly for diverse applications in various industries.

Smart lockers have become indispensable in office sectors, encompassing both corporate environments and government settings as well as the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector. These lockers serve critical functions in these workplaces by providing secure solutions for the storage of sensitive documents, confidential information, and personal valuables, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Employees benefit from designated spaces within smart lockers to securely store personal belongings, including bags, coats, and electronic devices during working hours, promoting organizational cleanliness. The advanced access control methods integrated into many smart lockers, such as RFID cards, biometric scanners, or mobile apps, offer a contactless and secure means for employees to access their assigned lockers.

The Next Generation iOS Sled Scanner for Enhanced Industrial Productivity

Unitech announced the launch of the SL220, an advanced iOS sled scanner designed to seamlessly integrate iPhones and iPads into a high-performance scanning tool. Tailored for industries such as warehousing, retail, inventory, and asset tracking, the SL220 is set to transform how businesses interact with mobile technology.

The SL220 features a user-friendly interface with a slide-rail design for easy installation, instantly upgrading any iPhone into a robust industrial-level barcode scanner. This enhancement is crucial in high-speed operational environments where quick and precise barcode scanning is essential.

The SL220's design is a game changer, offering compatibility with various iPhone and iPad models. It is designed to work seamlessly with OtterBox uniVERSE cases, providing flexibility and durability for different device requirements. The SL220's robust design is complemented by its IP65 rating, making it dustproof, waterproof, and resistant to falls of up to 1.2 meters.

ScanBridge provides outstanding scanner management support for the SL220, making barcode operations more efficient and precise. This application not only offers seamless device pairing but also includes data wedge and advanced data editing rules, and barcode checking tools. Key features of ScanBridge include easy connectivity through a Lightning adapter, auto sync scanner configuration, diverse data transmission options, and customizable data editing functions. Moreover, its accurate scan checking tool ensures the precision of barcode data. The integration of ScanBridge with the SL220 brings an unprecedented level of convenience in barcode management to users.

Australia POS Market Sees Prominent Growth

 

The Australia POS market has witnessed a tremendous growth trajectory, with enterprise valuations reaching USD 515.71 million.

Experts anticipate a continued upsurge, projecting a brisk CAGR of 12.48% during the forecast period through to 2028.

Technological strides and a shift in consumer conduct are largely to thank for the robust health of this industry sector. Additionally, niche areas such as contactless payment solutions have experienced surges in demand, largely accredited to the COVID-19 pandemic which fostered the need for safer transaction methods.

Broadly speaking, the Australian POS market is indicative of a significant shift towards cloud-based system adoption, which brings with it a plethora of benefits for different sized businesses. From scalability and flexibility to more efficient and real-time data analytics, cloud-based POS platforms facilitate enhanced inventory management and effortlessly sync with e-commerce operations. This turns into actionable insights for businesses to streamline and amplify efficiency.

Key Drivers and Innovations

    Digital Transformation and Cloud-Based Solutions: The evolution towards cloud-based POS continues to stand as a market driver, pushing businesses towards digital modernization to garner real-time analytics and optimize functionalities.
    Contactless Payments and NFC Technology: A move towards NFC-enabled terminals highlights a response to consumer preference for hygienic payment methods, thus driving demand for such technology in the POS sphere.
    Integration with E-Commerce and Omni-Channel: As e-commerce flourishes, the need for integrated POS solutions that manage sales channels and inventory in unison grows increasingly crucial.
    Data Security and Regulatory Compliance: Elevated data security and adherence to compliance frameworks like PCI DSS is a priority, underlining the role of POS systems that ensure secure transactions.