BayCare's St. Joseph's Hospital Opens Season's Café with Amazon's Just Walk Out Technology

St. Joseph's Hospital announced that it becomes the first health care facility to use checkout-free technology in a hospital cafeteria, demonstrating BayCare and St. Joseph's Hospital's commitment to innovation, patient care and team member experience.

Located inside the hospital, Season's Café uses Amazon's Just Walk Out technology to eliminate checkout lines and allow guests access to the full range of cafeteria items 24 hours a day, Monday through Saturday. The cafeteria is only closed from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Sundays. Employees will also be able to use their badge to pay through an integration between Just Walk Out technology and Quickcharge, a division of Transact Campus.

Amazon's Just Walk Out technology is designed to be an effortless shopping experience. Guests enter the cafeteria by using their credit card, mobile wallet, or team member badge at the entry gate. The technology detects what each shopper takes from or returns to the shelves and creates a virtual shopping cart. When guests have completed their shopping experience, they can leave the store without having to wait in a checkout line, and their chosen payment method will be charged for the items they took with them.

Amazon's Just Walk Out technology is made possible by artificial intelligence, computer vision and deep learning techniques, including generative AI, which enables the technology to accurately determine who took what in any retail environment. Amazon built synthetic datasets to mimic millions of realistic shopping scenarios — including variations in store format, lighting conditions, and even crowds of shoppers — to ensure accuracy in any environment.

The cafeteria offers a variety of items, from baked goods, premade sandwiches and a salad bar, to fresh pizza and hot meals that change daily. Menu items from guest restaurants are often available.

Aqara presence sensor FP2

The Aqara FP2 goes beyond being a simple motion or light sensor. This intelligent home sensor can detect a wide range of factors, including movement, light levels, and even sleep data such as heart rate and breathing rates. Unlike traditional motion or light sensors, which operate in a one-way manner, the Aqara FP2 is dynamic and versatile.

Users can set up various automations based on the detected movement. For example:Turn on smart home devices at night when you’re nearby. Automatically turn off devices when you walk away (either immediately or after a timer). Activate lights only in nearby areas to avoid disturbing others.

Within each zone, the Aqara FP2 can identify up to five individual humans. It also distinguishes between people, pets, and robot vacuums. For instance, it won’t trigger kitchen lights unnecessarily when the vacuum is cleaning at night.

As a presence sensor, the FP2 can monitor sleep patterns in detail. When placed in your bedroom, it detects variations in heart rate and respiratory rates. Combined with sleep cycle identification, the Aqara FP2 provides valuable sleep insights through an app, without the need for additional wearables or charging.

ADR opts for Softech IoT system

Aeroporti Di Roma has selected Softech’s IoT monitoring system for benchmarking trolley collection areas at Fiumicino International Airport.

Softech’s G-Smart GSE tracking system combines RFID, Bluetooth, ADS-B, and GPS technologies to create a customized solution for this application. Specifically, the system utilizes RFID technology to identify and count baggage trolleys at storage stations (bays) in Terminals T1 and T3. The goal is to reduce operational inefficiencies.

Operators can monitor a large number of assets simultaneously, thanks to this efficient system. Softech’s IoT infrastructure includes readers, antennas, and over 5,000 RFID tags directly applied to the trolleys (mounted to avoid signal interference from ferrous material). Real-time data is displayed on a georeferenced map, and a warning system alerts operators if the trolley count in a bay falls below the minimum threshold. Additionally, the web-based software allows users to view and export trolley movement history between areas, facilitating benchmarking and performance analysis.

Softech plans to enhance G-Smart by estimating the required number of trolleys based on passenger and baggage flow, connecting the tracking system to ADR management systems.

Avery Dennison Increases Quarterly Dividend

Avery Dennison Corporation announced that its Board of Directors has increased the company’s quarterly dividend. The board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.88 per share, representing an increase of approximately 9% over the previous dividend rate. The dividend for the second quarter is payable on June 20, 2024 to shareholders of record as of June 5, 2024.

Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science and digital identification solutions company that provides a wide range of branding and information solutions that optimize labor and supply chain efficiency, reduce waste, advance sustainability, circularity and transparency, and better connect brands and consumers.

Its products and solutions include labeling and functional materials, radio frequency identification (RFID) inlays and tags, software applications that connect the physical and digital, and a variety of products and solutions that enhance branded packaging and carry or display information that improves the customer experience.

Virtual Cards Market Projected to Reach $89.93 billion by 2030

A new report titled "Virtual Cards Market by Card (Credit Card, Debit Card), Product (B2B Virtual Cards, B2C Remote Payment Virtual Cards, C2B POS Virtual Cards), Issuer Type, Application - Global Forecast 2024-2030" is now available on 360iResearch.com's offering, presents an analysis indicating that the market projected to grow from a size of $28.54 billion in 2023 to reach $89.93 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 17.81% over the forecast period.

Virtual cards, the digital equivalents of traditional physical cards, are transforming the way online transactions are conducted with their unique blend of convenience and security. Virtual cards are created and utilized solely online, furnished with all essential details such as a card number, CVV, and an expiration date for immediate use upon issuance.

This innovation in digital payment is emerging as a popular choice across the globe, from individual consumers to large corporations, owing to its ability to offer heightened security against fraud, streamline payment processes, and significantly improve financial management and oversight. In the Americas, particularly the USA and Canada, the surge in virtual card adoption is mainly attributed to the demand for safer online transaction methods.

Similar growth trends are observed in South America, Europe, the MEA region, and Africa, primarily driven by digital transformation initiatives, regulatory support for secure payments, and the increasing desire for financial inclusion. The Asia-Pacific region exhibits rapid advancements in virtual card usage, powered by widespread smartphone usage, eCommerce growth, and fintech innovations. As the world continues to shift toward digital payment methods, virtual cards represent a significant step forward in ensuring transactional security and convenience on a global scale.

The rapid transition to online shopping, digital services, and the need for secure, streamlined financial transactions have highlighted the significance of virtual cards in today's digital economy. As eCommerce and online marketplaces expand, making purchases more accessible, the necessity for payment solutions that are both secure and tailored becomes paramount. Virtual cards have emerged as a pivotal solution, offering enhanced security through unique card numbers for each transaction or merchant, effectively minimizing the risk of fraud and unauthorized access. This innovation is particularly vital in an era where cyber threats to personal and financial information are escalating.

Moreover, the shift toward remote work and the digital consumption of services have highlighted the importance of having varied and secure online payment options. Virtual cards stand out for their convenience and ease of use, being readily generated, easily managed, and seamlessly integrated with mobile wallets and online payment platforms. Their ability to offer a safer, more efficient payment experience makes them a preferred choice for consumers and businesses, aligning with the demands for more secure and user-friendly payment methods in the digital transformation.

E-Wallet Market size is set to grow by USD 163.43 billion from 2023-2027

The global E-wallet market size is estimated to grow by USD 163.43 bn from 2023 to 2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 26.41% during the forecast period. APAC held the largest share of the global market in 2022, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 39%.

Numerous companies are capitalizing on this growing trend by implementing strategic measures such as alliances, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. Among the notable players in the cheese based snacks market are:

The E-Wallet Market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with contactless payments becoming increasingly popular. Traditional cash transactions are being replaced by digital transactions using mobile wallets and credit/debit cards linked to bank accounts. E-Wallets support various services such as mobile recharges, bill payments, movie/travel bookings, and money transfers. The market is driven by proximity and remote technology, including NFC technology, which enables seamless transactions. However, concerns over data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized access remain, as these digital platforms store sensitive financial information.

The global e-wallet market has experienced significant growth, driven by the increasing number of Internet users and the surge in digital transactions. In 2021, over 59% of the world's population uses the Internet, leading to a rise in e-commerce, bill payments, and peer-to-peer transfers. For instance, India recorded 91.92 billion digital payment transactions in December 2020-21, a 103% increase from the previous year. In contrast, the US e-commerce sales grew by 44% in 2020, totaling USD861 billion. E-wallets offer convenience, replacing physical cash with digital alternatives. CPMI's Red Book Statistics report that e-wallets include mobile wallets, credit/debit cards, and bank accounts. However, concerns over data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized access persist. Alipay and WeChat Pay, leading e-wallets, employ biometric authentication methods like fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, and iris scanning for security. Dfns, Delegated Signing, and WebAuthn protocols also enhance security. PIN codes, in-app payments, and e-commerce platforms are other e-wallet features. NFC technology and proximity/remote technology facilitate retail and e-commerce transactions. The banking segment and vending businesses also leverage e-wallets, with Brazil's Pix being a recent addition.

The E-Wallet Market continues to expand with the rise of contactless payments, challenging traditional cash transactions. MRFR Database projects significant growth, driven by mobile recharge, bill payments, movie/travel bookings, money transfers, and retail sales in the Retail and E-Commerce industry. E-Wallets integrate with credit/debit cards, bank accounts, and various payment networks, necessitating substantial infrastructure and execution costs. Smaller players may struggle to enter due to these expenses, particularly in regions with limited resources. Ongoing costs include maintaining competitiveness and adapting to changing consumer demands. Key players like Alibaba, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Square, and Alipay dominate the market, leveraging advanced technologies such as Near Field Communication, QR Code, Text-based service, and biometric authentication methods (fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, iris scanning) to secure transactions and enhance user experience. However, challenges persist, including data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized access, necessitating robust security measures like Dfns, Delegated Signing, and WebAuthn protocol.

The E-Wallet Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the integration of advanced technologies such as blockchain and biometrics. Traditional methods like PIN codes are being replaced with more secure options, including facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. In-app payments on e-commerce platforms and digital content providers are increasingly common, facilitated by the Internet and the E-commerce sector. Mobile wallets enable digital transactions, offering convenience for credit/debit card and bank account users. Mobile recharges and bill payments are simplified, as are movie/travel bookings and money transfers. Retailers and businesses benefit from technology's integration, with proximity and remote solutions like NFC technology and contactless payments. The Banking segment and vending businesses also profit from this shift, with cash transactions becoming less prevalent. The MRFR Database forecasts continued expansion for the E-Wallet Market.

Plant sensors could act as an early warning system for farmers

Researchers from MIT and the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) have developed a novel way to monitor plant stress using a pair of sensors made from carbon nanotubes. These sensors detect signaling molecules that plants use to coordinate their response to stress, such as hydrogen peroxide and salicylic acid (similar to aspirin). By analyzing the production of these molecules at different time points, the system creates distinctive patterns that serve as an early warning system for farmers.

Here’s how it works: When plants experience stress due to factors like heat, light, or attack from insects or bacteria, they produce specific chemical signals. The two sensors, one for hydrogen peroxide and the other for salicylic acid, work together to identify the type of stress the plant is undergoing. These chemical changes serve as unique fingerprints for different stressors, allowing farmers to intervene before crops are lost.

The research, published in Nature Communications, involved collaboration with Sarojam Rajani, a senior principal investigator at the Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory in Singapore. The lead authors of the paper are Mervin Chun-Yi Ang, associate scientific director at SMART, and Jolly Madathiparambil Saju, a research officer at Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory1.

This innovative approach could revolutionize crop management by providing real-time information on plant health and stress levels, allowing farmers to take timely actions to protect their crops2. The ability to detect stress signals early could significantly improve agricultural productivity and reduce losses due to environmental challenges.

Payment Gateways Market, 30% of Growth to Originate from APAC

The global payment gateways market size is estimated to grow by USD 8551.26 million from 2023 to 2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of almost 11.72% during the forecast period. APAC held the largest share of the global market in 2022, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 30%.

The Payment Gateways Market in APAC is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing adoption of digital payments. Consumers in sectors such as e-commerce and BFSI are utilizing payment gateway solutions integrated with online platforms and hardware devices like smartphones and PoS systems for secure online transactions. India and Japan lead the market, particularly in the UPI industry. Amidst the pandemic, the shift towards a cashless economy has accelerated, with platforms like Flipkart-owned PhonePe and Worldline facilitating digital payments through bank apps, mobile-based apps, and internet banking. However, security concerns persist, including phishing, denial of services, and cyberattacks, which could result in financial losses and business interruptions. Merchants, both large and small, require cost-effective and secure hosted payment solutions to meet consumer inclination towards digital channels. Despite these challenges, the coronavirus outbreak has further fueled the growth of online money transfers and online services.

In today's cashless economy, the use of payment gateways for online transactions has become increasingly prevalent. With the coronavirus outbreak driving consumer inclination towards contactless payments and record highs in e-commerce sector growth, the market for payment gateways is experiencing significant expansion. Merchants, including micro merchants, are turning to digital payment solutions to offer consumers a more cost-effective and convenient shopping experience. Worldline, a leading merchant acquiring and digital payment services provider, plays a crucial role in this digital infrastructure. However, with the rise of online services comes the risk of cyberattacks, leading to financial losses and business interruptions. Payment gateways must prioritize security to mitigate these risks and maintain consumer trust. Bulk transactions require robust and efficient payment gateway systems to ensure seamless processing and minimize potential delays.

The payment gateways market has experienced record highs due to the increasing preference for online money transfers and mobile-based apps. With the advent of Internet banking and digital wallets, consumers are increasingly opting for contactless services and faster transactions. Big players, including Paystack and Worldline, offer NFC-based mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, for onsite payments and bulk transactions. Security concerns, including phishing, denial of services, and cyberattacks, have been mitigated through hosted payment solutions and the use of secure PoS terminals. The coronavirus outbreak has further accelerated the shift towards digitalization and online services, with the e-commerce sector experiencing significant growth. Despite these benefits, financial losses and business interruptions due to cyberattacks remain a concern. As consumers continue to incline towards online payments, payment processing companies must prioritize security and customer relationships to maintain trust and build a cashless economy.

Quectel showcases IoT offering at Japan IT Week Spring in Tokyo

Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, is participating in Japan IT Week Spring, taking place in Tokyo from April 24th to 26th, 2024.

During the event, Quectel will present its extensive range of innovative IoT solutions, featuring 5G, Short Range, Smart, GNSS and LPWA modules, alongside a wide array of complementary antennas and services. Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with Quectel's team of experts, discover its latest products and technologies, and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

Additionally, Soracom, widely recognized as one of Japan's leading IoT technology providers, recently announced official support for iSIM, the next generation SIM technology, in its IoT data communication service "SORACOM Air for Cellular”. As part of this, the company will be offering the Quectel BG773A-GL module at the SORACOM IoT Store and user console.

Attendees will have the opportunity to find out more about the Quectel BG773A-GL module while at the show. This innovative ultra-compact LTE Cat M1, NB1, and NB2 module features integrated SIM (iSIM) support. The iSIM functionality of this cutting-edge module offers significant flexibility and simplicity for integrators and IoT service providers. Essentially, it allows a device with a single stock-keeping unit (SKU) number to seamlessly access the appropriate connectivity required to support its operations worldwide.

Self-adhesive Label Market size to record USD 15.79 billion growth from 2023-2027

The global self-adhesive label market size is estimated to grow by USD 15790.71 mn from 2023 to 2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.71% during the forecast period. Self-adhesive labels with 2D barcodes offer significant benefits in product identification and tracking.

These labels use patterns of squares and rectangles to encode data, including serial numbers, product info, and instructions. With high data capacity in a small space, they're ideal for labeling, inventory management, and logistics. In supply chains, they minimize errors and streamline processes. Keywords: self-adhesive labels, 2D barcodes, product identification, inventory management, logistics, supply chains, data capacity, product info, instructions, error minimization.

In the self-adhesive label market, 2D barcodes have revolutionized product identification and tracking. These advanced labels, with their adhesive side adhering to various surfaces, offer significant advantages. With high reel capacity, they minimize transportation costs, making them cost-effective for industries using BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) or polymer films. Wraparound labels for bottles and package labeling benefit from 2D barcodes' ability to store vast data, including date of manufacture and net content, ensuring product safety and minimizing paper waste. In the ecommerce market and cosmetics industry, where aesthetic characteristics are crucial, 2D barcodes provide essential information, such as ingredient lists and product identification. Supply chains have seen production halts and growth trajectory shifts, making sustainable practices, like linerless labels, increasingly important. As consumers and marketers demand transparency, 2D barcodes play an essential role in providing ingredient information and product identification, ultimately attracting potential consumers.

The self-adhesive label market faces challenges in supply chains due to production halts, yet maintains a growth trajectory driven by consumer demand for convenience and product identification. Substitutes like wet glue labels, with their sustainable practices and superior adhesive strength, pose competition. Larger players in Packaging and labeling, such as Hindustan Unilever and Britannia, invest in capacity expansions and adhesive technology to cater to the abovementioned factors' largest base. Electronics production and personal devices fuel domestic demand, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a growing middleclass population. Labels serve essential roles in providing ingredient information, product identification, and cautionary notifications, adhering to legal requirements. Marketers target potential consumers through ecommerce platforms like Flipkart, while the growth of artisans and weavers sparks innovation with RFID-based and linerless labels. Pressuresensitive labels, release liners, and film release liners continue to evolve, addressing the needs of healthcare products and medical equipment in the economic growth and demographic dividend era. Tiny particles of adhesive technology ensure a strong bond, enabling labels to withstand various applications and pressures.

Geospace Technologies Releases Lightweight, Long Lasting Land Seismic Data Acquisition Node

Geospace Technologies announces the new product release of an all-in-one, ultralight weight, land-based, wireless seismic data acquisition solution called the Pioneer.

Weighing less than 0.5kg, the Pioneer features a 5Hz geophone, specially designed by Geospace with a small form factor and reduced weight. The Pioneer is able to record continuously 24 hours a day for 50 days and offers rapid recharging and data download times. The carefully designed node provides inductive charging and data transfer as well as improved sensor coupling to dramatically improve the signal to noise ratio delivered.

Each node features one GS-5 vertical geophone, battery, 24-bit digitizer, and GPS receiver enclosed in its sealed case. The Pioneer aims to reduce overall operating and ownership costs by lowering the deployment footprint. The benefits of Pioneer’s lower power consumption, smaller size, and less weight result in reduced logistics and lower fuel costs, enabling crews to deploy much faster with greater efficiency.

Pioneer is fully compatible with the company’s proprietary software package of GeoUtilities, GeoReaper and GeoMerge. By incorporating the power of distributive computing, a single operator interface controls the scalable data collection and delivery needs of any sized crew.

Self-service Kiosk Market size is set to grow by USD 8.26 billion from 2023-2027

The global self-service kiosk market  size is estimated to grow by USD 8,262.72 mn from 2023-2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  12.61%  during the forecast period.  Self-service kiosks are gaining popularity due to customer preference for contactless payment, using NFC-enabled devices or contactless cards. Equipped with contactless payment terminals, these kiosks offer personalized recommendations, improved customer experience, and operational efficiency. Key features include AI, speech recognition, touchscreens, and barcode scanners. Industries like restaurants, petrol pumps, and casinos benefit from reduced customer turnaround time and increased accessibility.

The Self-service Kiosk Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for contactless solutions in various sectors. The hardware component, including touchscreen displays, durable kiosk units, and external devices, forms the backbone of this market. Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality enhance the customer experience by providing personalized recommendations and AI-driven analytics based on user data and customer behaviour. Self-service kiosks offer contactless payment processing, self-check-ins, and self-orders in banking, travel, restaurants, gaming, and other industries. Key features include barcode scanners, card readers, printers, trackballs, video cameras, and touch screens. The integration of AI, speech recognition, and voice commands improves accessibility and operational efficiency, reducing customer turnaround time and enhancing overall service delivery.

The Self-Service Kiosk Market in North America continues to lead globally, driven by customer preference for improved experience and reduced turnaround time. Vendors collaborate with platform and technology providers to expand market reach. Self-service kiosks facilitate transactions in various sectors, including retail, healthcare, transportation, and entertainment. AI technologies such as speech recognition, voice commands, and AI-driven analytics enhance user experience and operational efficiency. Self-checkouts, contactless payments, and facial recognition kiosks are key trends. Personalized recommendations and touchless self-service equipment cater to consumer behaviour. Hardware and software advancements include virtual and augmented reality, barcode scanners, card readers, and contactless payment processing. Banking services, check-ins, self-orders, and ticketing are major applications. Citizens benefit from increased accessibility and convenience in sectors like healthcare, transportation, and smart city initiatives.

EU to approve Apple’s iPhone NFC chip policy changes

The European Commission is poised to approve Apple’s previously-announced policy adjustments concerning access to the NFC chip on the iPhone. The primary goal is to foster competition in the contactless payments market. The official announcement of the commission’s decision is expected in the upcoming weeks, as reported by Reuters1.

Under these new changes, apps will gain the ability to serve as the default wallet app when users double-click the side button or hold their phone near a payment terminal. However, it’s important to note that this policy relaxation applies exclusively to apps within the European Union, not globally.

Until now, Apple has maintained strict control over access to the NFC contactless chip on iPhones, citing reasons related to user experience, privacy, and security. Consequently, Apple Pay has dominated as the de facto contactless payment solution on iPhones, effectively leaving no room for competition.

From the user’s perspective, this means they can now download alternative apps and designate them as their preferred contactless payment app. These apps will be able to replace system features typically associated with Apple Pay, such as near-field activation and double-click functionality.

However, it won’t be a completely unrestricted environment. App developers seeking these privileges must request an entitlement from Apple, adhering to industry standards and holding appropriate licenses for consumer payments1. This measured approach aims to strike a balance between openness and security.

POS Terminals Market size is set to grow by USD 46.07 billion from 2023-2027

The global POS terminals market  size is estimated to grow by USD 46.07 bn from 2023-2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of about 8.23%  during the forecast period.  The global POS terminals market is driven by the increasing need for advanced payment solutions in retail, healthcare, hospitality, and warehouse industries.

Consumers' preference for credit and debit card transactions fuels adoption. Small retailers in developing countries, like China and India, are adopting secure and convenient POS terminals. Mobile POS terminals, using wireless devices, are popular among SMEs. Demands include e-wallet facilities, mobile payments, and data safety. Key sectors include retail, healthcare, and hospitality. Strategic partnerships with vendors, payment service providers, and governments promote digital payments and cashless transactions.

This pos terminals market report extensively covers market segmentation by End-user (Entertainment, Hospitality, Healthcare, Retail, Others) Component (Hardware, Software, Services) Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, Middle East and Africa)

The Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal market encompasses advanced hardware components of POS systems, including monitors, card readers, cash drawers, and receipt printers. Peripherals may include barcode scanners, customer displays, and kitchen printers. Newer hardware offers contactless payment options and integration with inventory management and CRM systems. Consumers benefit from various payment modes, such as cards, e-wallets, and mobile payments. Governments promote digital payments and cashless transactions, driving demand for POS terminals in retail outlets, healthcare sector, and more. Cloud-based and integrated POS terminals ensure data safety and prevent fraudulent transactions. Strategic partnerships between vendors, payment service providers, and small-scale companies, startups, and industries like retail, hospitality, and healthcare, fuel market growth. Wireless communication technologies enable mobile POS terminals and drive-thru applications.

The Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal market in APAC is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing adoption in various sectors such as hospitals, pharmacies, resorts, restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and retail stores. The penetration of organized retail, including supermarkets and hypermarkets, is driving this trend. Wireless communication technologies, including contactless payment methods, are becoming increasingly popular in China, Australia, India, and Indonesia, further fueling the market. Major vendors like PAX Global Technology, VeriFone Inc., BBPOS International Ltd., and Castles Technology Co. Ltd. provide POS terminal solutions. Collaborations and partnerships, such as the launch of Android-based smart payment terminals by Revenue Group Berhad and Public Bank Berhad, continue to improve cashless payment methods. POS terminals come with hardware components like cash registers, barcode scanners, and computers, and offer software integration, cloud deployment, and on-premises deployment. Consumers can use various payment modes, including cards, e-wallet facilities, and mobile payments. Governments are promoting digital payments and cashless transactions, making retail outlets increasingly reliant on integrated POS terminals for inventory management, Business Intelligence, and customer satisfaction. Despite the benefits, concerns around data breaches and identity threats persist, with some solutions turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital menu boards for enhanced security.

Smart Card Market To Reach USD 26.2 Billion By 2032

The surge in popularity of contactless payments has emerged as a significant driver in the smart card market. According to a report by the European Central Bank, the number of contactless card payments initiated at physical electronic points of sale rose by 24.3% compared to the first half of 2022, reaching 20.9 billion transactions, with a corresponding total value increase of 25.9% to €0.5 trillion.

Moreover, governments and financial institutions worldwide actively promote contactless payments, further boosting the demand for smart cards in the coming years. For instance, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has endorsed the use of contactless payments as a means to curb the spread of viruses.

The Internet of Things (IoT) rapid expansion has brought new avenues for the smart card market. Smart cards play a vital role in enhancing the security of IoT devices and networks through robust authentication and encryption features. With the global IoT market projected to reach USD 1.1 trillion by 2024, encompassing over 55 billion connected devices, the demand for secure smart card solutions is anticipated to rise. As IoT applications proliferate across diverse sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation, smart cards can be employed for secure device provisioning, firmware updates, and data protection, ensuring IoT ecosystems' integrity and confidentiality.

In 2023, the contactless smart card sub-segment held the largest market share. The widespread adoption of contactless payment solutions, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing popularity of touch-free transactions, has significantly contributed to the dominance of contactless smart card.

The banking segment is expected to hold the largest market share. The increasing adoption of smart card for secure financial transactions, such as credit and debit card, has significantly driven the growth of the sub-segment.

Mastercard and Leading Canadian Fintech VoPay Enter Strategic Partnership

Mastercard and VoPay announced a strategic partnership that will offer choice, simplicity and efficiency for near-real-time money movement in Canada and internationally for businesses and consumers.

Leveraging Mastercard Move, Mastercard’s newly combined portfolio of domestic and international money transfer solutions, the companies will offer a choice of payment rails and capabilities for reliable, fast and secure fund transfers to their customers. The partnership expands Mastercard’s commitment to working with the fintech community around the world to simplify and speed up money movement.

This strategic partnership combines VoPay and Mastercard’s shared vision to eliminate payment inefficiencies, which means innovating using fast-paced technology and building cutting-edge end-to-end solutions for consumers and businesses that are scalable.

With the launch of the joint solution in 2024, Canadian businesses and financial institutions will be able to make domestic payouts or disbursements to any enabled debit card or reloadable prepaid card, regardless of the payments network. Additionally, these payments could also be sent directly to the recipient’s bank account leveraging other existing Canadian payment rails. As a single platform offering access to multiple rails, the partnership will transform the way businesses and consumers pay and get paid and support a plethora of use cases.

CONTROLTEK welcomes Dan Davies as Director of Technical Operations

CONTROLTEK, which delivers retail asset protection, RFID inventory and asset tracking solutions, and tamper-evident packaging, has announced the appointment of Dan Davies, CFI as its new Director of Technical Operations.

In his new role at CONTROLTEK, Dan will be responsible for driving customer advocacy, refining the Project Management process, and maximizing efficiencies across the organization's technical operations.

Prior to joining CONTROLTEK, Dan has served as the corporate Director of Asset Protection Solutions at Rite Aid, overseeing the Physical Security and Analytics teams as well as leading special projects initiatives. Throughout his extensive career, Dan has held various leadership roles in both Corporate and Field environments, with previous experience at retail giants like Target and Sears.

Comtech Partners with Eutelsat OneWeb to Deliver LEO Connectivity Services to Antarctica

Comtech, in partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, GEO-LEO connectivity provider in satellite communications, announces trial services to deliver Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity services to multiple regions of Antarctica.

Launched in January 2024, the service provides connectivity to customers in Antarctica. Through this trial, Comtech’s market-leading ELEVATE VSAT ground system supported Eutelsat OneWeb’s ability to deliver groundbreaking LEO connectivity services, with data rates reaching up to 120 Mbps, to one of the most challenging geographic regions in the world. Comtech worked with Eutelsat OneWeb to configure and install the company’s ELEVATE ground system to simultaneously route robust and resilient connectivity services over multiple OneWeb LEO satellites.

This trial showcased the importance of high-speed, low latency connectivity for the scientific community and wider Antarctic region. Through satellite-based LEO connectivity services, like those provided by Comtech and Eutelsat OneWeb, scientists in Antarctica can better conduct day-to-day activities by facilitating real-time support from scientific, technical or health teams around the world. LEO connectivity services also have the potential to improve the welfare of the scientists, outside of working hours, as they are often deployed for 18 months at a time in one of the most remote and geographically challenging areas of the world.

Comtech’s ELEVATE ground system is a transportable, software defined VSAT system, which is proven to provide commercial and government customers with access to high-speed connectivity across diverse satellite constellations in multiple orbits. ELEVATE is designed to identify, collect and route data from multiple satellite constellations and orbits as well as deliver next generation capabilities like 4K video streaming and voice services.

Wireless Connectivity Market to Reach $294 billion, Globally, by 2032

According to a new report, the wireless connectivity market was valued at $80.4 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $294 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.89% from 2023 to 2032.

The wireless connectivity market is expected to witness notable growth owing to the rising popularity of smartphones, tablets, wearables, smart home devices, and IoT solutions. Moreover, the widespread adoption of 5G technology is expected to provide lucrative opportunities for the growth of the market during the forecast period. On the contrary, security remains a significant concern in wireless connectivity, particularly with the increasing number of connected devices and the potential vulnerabilities they introduce. Security breaches, data leaks, and unauthorized access presents integration challenges and limits the growth of the wireless connectivity market.

Based on technology, the Wi-fi segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one-fourth of the global wireless connectivity market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period due its ubiquitous adoption, offering high-speed internet access for various devices. Its dominance stems from widespread use in homes, businesses, and public spaces, driving demand for Wi-Fi-enabled products and infrastructure.

Based on application, the consumer electronics segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than one-fourth of the global wireless connectivity market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Consumer electronics held the highest market share in the wireless connectivity market due to the widespread integration of wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and wearables. The surge in demand for connected devices, coupled with advancements in wireless connectivity, propelled consumer electronics to dominate the market, driving innovation and expanding the ecosystem of wireless-enabled products.

Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly one-third of the global wireless connectivity industry revenue owing to rapid technological adoption, urbanization, and the expanding consumer electronics market. With increasing demand for smartphones, IoT devices, and smart home solutions, the region witnessed substantial growth in wireless connectivity. Moreover, initiatives to improve digital infrastructure and connectivity further bolstered Asia-Pacific's position as a leading market for wireless technologies.

Juniper forecasts 25% increase in POS terminal transaction values

Global POS terminal transaction values will total US$17 trillion this year and grow by 25% to $21.1tn a year by 2028, Juniper Research has forecast.

This growth comes despite the recent POS outages in some retail store chains across the globe; forcing a number of temporary store closures. Significant financial and security risks were exposed during these faults; continuing the demand for smart POS terminals to replace outdated legacy systems.

Smart POS solutions, which offer enhanced functions over traditional POS such as staff management, loyalty card processing, inventory management and shop synchronization with other outlets in the same chain, are identified as the key to mitigating the problem.

Portland introduces QR code sidewalk clings

The City of Portland is turning to technology to help enhance the experience of walking around downtown Portland.

Portland’s Public Environment Management Office has announced the first phase of installing Travel Portland ‘Near Me Now’ app-branded sidewalk cling graphics around the Central City.

The sidewalk cling has a scannable QR code that will take users to a web app, and give users a chance to download the app if they want.

The project is led by PEMO in collaboration with Mayor Ted Wheeler’s Office, Travel Portland, Portland Metro Chamber, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, Downtown Retail Council, Pioneer Place, and Old Town Community Association, among other groups.

STMicroelectronics launches NFC tag chip

STMicroelectronics’ ST25TA-E NFC tag IC strengthens the security of digital product passports and blockchain-based applications by implementing state-of-the-art on-chip digital signature mechanism, TruST25 Edge.

Based on elliptic curve cryptography (ECC), running on an advanced asymmetric cryptographic engine embedded in the ST25TA-E, the new on-chip signature ensures the authenticity of an attached physical object. Combining both on-chip and off-chip digital-signature mechanisms, the new ST25TA-E NFC tag comprehensively protects against counterfeit and gray market activities and enhances opportunities for consumer engagement.

The ST25TA-E meets the high standards expected by luxury brands in particular and is ideal for protecting high-value products such as designer clothes and accessories, art, or other items that need a digital certificate. Tapping with an NFC-enabled smartphone can track the attached product’s entire journey through the supply chain to verify the provenance of individual products and assist security auditing.

The combination of strengthened authentication and on-chip user memory also lets brand owners deliver tailored consumer experiences. Customers can interact easily using a smartphone to access content stored on the tag and engage with the brand online, including securely registering and transferring ownership.

In blockchain-based applications, the TruST25 Edge ECC-based signature is natively supported by blockchain technology, ensuring immutability and transparency of data.

Further features of the ST25TA-E tag IC include partial and whole-memory protection by password in both read and write modes, permanent file locking to prevent rewriting, and anonymous mode to protect consumer privacy. In addition, support for Augmented NFC data exchange format (NDEF) enables simultaneous and native data transfer, initiated conveniently using a smartphone without needing to install an app.

Delivering the enhanced security of on-chip digital signatures, enabled by advanced ECC-based asymmetric cryptography, the ST25TA-E is convenient, secure, easy to use, and competitively priced from $0.325 for orders of 1000 pieces. Samples are available now and volume production is scheduled to start in August 2024.

Bank of China lets taxi drivers accept central bank digital currency payments on NFC mobile phones

The Bank of China is currently conducting a pilot program in Shenzhen to enable merchants to accept contactless digital currency payments using standard NFC mobile phones.

Taxi drivers participating in the pilot use the bank’s e-yuan central bank digital currency (CBDC) app to enter the fare amount for their passengers.

Passengers can then simply tap a contactless card, known as an e-yuan hardware wallet, against the driver’s NFC-enabled phone to make the payment. No additional hardware or traditional point-of-sale (POS) terminals are required.

Obtaining and activating an e-yuan hardware wallet is straightforward and can be done anonymously. These wallets have gained popularity among foreigners in China, especially during the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing in 2022, as they offer an efficient payment option for short-term stays in the country.

The solution aims to expand the use of e-yuan wallets, making it convenient for both foreigners and elderly individuals in China to make payments.

3D Sensors Market size is set to grow by USD 5148.49 mn from 2024-2028

The global 3d sensors market size is estimated to grow by USD 5148.49 mn from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 18.69% during the forecast period. The 3D sensors market is driven by the security and surveillance sector, with growing adoption in security cameras and CCTV. Providing real-time 3D imaging, position tracking, and gesture recognition.

Major OEMs focus on developing 3D sensors for automotive, healthcare, image sensors, and LiDAR driver monitoring. Key players include ON Semiconductor, CMOS sensor platform, and ToF 3D sensors. Applications include night vision, automobiles, and biometric scanning. Other sectors include automotive in-cabin sensing, machine vision, and IoT platform.

The 3D sensor market encompasses various image processing sensors, including Time-of-Flight sensors and structured light systems, used in applications such as security cameras, smartphones, and tablets. These sensors employ technologies like LiDAR, ultrasound, stereo vision, and gesture analysis for 3D mapping, object recognition, facial recognition, and gesture-based control. The automotive sector integrates 3D sensing hardware, such as LiDAR drones and LiDAR driver monitoring systems, for real-time mapping, object detection, and collision avoidance. The consumer electronics sector, including gaming, virtual reality, and human-computer interaction, also benefits from these advanced sensors. Companies like ON Semiconductor provide 3D sensing solutions through their CMOS sensor platform, offering low-megapixel and high-megapixel cameras with varying chip sizes and pixel pitches. Applications extend to robotics, assembly problems, aerospace & defense, retail (e-gcommerce), and AI-enabled products, enhancing safety, efficiency, and innovation.

The 3D Sensors Market experienced significant growth in North America in 2023, driven by the high adoption of 3D sensors in consumer electronic devices and sectors such as gaming, virtual reality, and human-computer interaction. In the consumer electronics sector, high-resolution cameras and chip size are crucial factors for companies like ON Semiconductor using CMOS sensor platforms to develop low-megapixel and high-megapixel cameras. The automotive sector also saw growth with the integration of 3D sensors in LiDAR driver monitoring, side mirror replacement, night vision, and dash cameras. The healthcare sector utilized 3D image sensors for biometric scanning and AI-enabled products. The use of 3D depth-sensing technology extended to LiDAR drones, aerospace & defense, and retail (e-commerce) applications such as 3D selfies, customized clothing, and power consumption optimization. Additionally, 3D sensors were integrated into automobiles for automotive in-cabin sensing, gesture recognition systems, and ToF 3D sensors for applications like fingerprint sensors and high-end smartphones. Overall, the market's growth was fueled by advancements in 3D depth-sensing technology, AI, and human-computer interaction. 

RFID Market For Industrial Applications Market size is set to grow by USD 2677.78 million from 2023-2027

The global rfid market for industrial applications market  size is estimated to grow by USD 2677.78 million from 2023-2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  10.63%  during the forecast period.  The RFID market for industrial applications is experiencing significant growth, driven by Industry 4.0's transformation. This technology enables asset tracking with real-time data, improving operations in organizations through automation and efficiency.

With a CAGR of X%, the market is expanding in regions like Europe and Asia, leveraging IoT sensors, AI, and identification systems for inventory management and supply chain optimization. RFID's long range and self-diagnosis capabilities contribute to increased productivity and monitoring in industrial processes.

RFID technology, specifically HF RFID operating at 13.56 MHz, is widely used in various industries for applications that demand higher data transfer rates and enhanced security. Industries utilize RFID for storage solutions, enabling contactless and seamless interaction between devices in close proximity. HF RFID finds extensive use in access control, secure authentication, and identification processes. Notably, it powers near-field communication (NFC) systems, such as contactless payment systems, where users can make transactions by simply tapping their NFC-enabled cards or devices.

The RFID market for industrial applications in the Americas is driven by sectors such as automotive, consumer electronics, and aerospace and defense. Factors fueling adoption include the integration of digitalized processes and IoT. RFID solutions provide valuable data for industries, enhancing operational efficiency. Key players like Zebra and Honeywell have a significant market share due to their long-term presence. The US, with its automotive production growth due to declining oil prices, contributes to the market's trends and demand. Overall, the RFID market for industrial applications in the Americas is experiencing robust growth.

RFID technology, an advanced identification system, is revolutionizing industrial asset tracking and inventory management. With a CAGR expected during the forecast period, RFID tags are replacing barcodes in organizations due to their extended range, automation capabilities, and superior efficiency in supply chain operations. RFID tags, utilizing sensors for real-time identification, offer significant benefits in management and tracking applications across various regions.

The RFID market for industrial applications has experienced significant growth, expanding beyond supply chain and inventory management. Notable industries benefiting from RFID technology include construction and data centers. RFID enables asset tracking, identification, and automation in organizations, enhancing efficiency and management of expensive assets such as servers and equipment. With a CAGR of X%, the technology's range extends to regions like Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America, revolutionizing operations through sensors and real-time data.

MSA Safety Launches New Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet

MSA Safety, Inc. launches the new MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet. In the North American fire service market, the Cairns 1836 is one of the lightest weight traditional-style fire helmets available that meets National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

The Cairns 1836 features a reduced ride height, enhancing comfort, fit and balance for the wearer. Additionally, the new helmet includes a patent-pending slide-lock system, which eliminates the need for any special tools to disassemble the helmet, ultimately enabling quicker and easier maintenance. Coupled with the slide-lock system, the Cairns 1836 also features removeable soft goods, making the ear covering, interior liner and ratchet pad easier to clean. Finally, the helmet is adaptable to a wide range of head sizes fitting 95 percent of firefighters, based on National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) head size test data.

Each Cairns 1836 helmet comes with embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, making it easier to track and manage the helmets through MSA FireGrid Inventory Management software.

NFC Technology Driving Shift From Contactless Card to Device First Approach – ABI Research

NFC Forum has announced the publication of its bi-annual Near Field Communication (NFC) Usage and Adoption Study. The study, conducted by ABI Research highlights the accelerating migration from physical to digital wallets, with more that 80% of those surveyed confirming that they have used a smartphone or smartwatch to make contactless payments. Security, convenience and future digital wallet innovations cement the growing trend towards device first approaches.

For the first time ever, the study found that the majority of consumers prefer to use their mobile phone or wearable to pay over a contactless card. Additionally, when compared to other payment options including contactless cards, QR Codes, and cash, consumers rated NFC contactless as the most secure, most convenient, most reliable, and easiest way to pay in-person.

The study provides a renewed understanding of consumer adoption, familiarity, and experience with NFC technology at both a global and regional level, with 55% of respondents saying they would prefer to use their smartphone or smartwatch to make a payment rather than their card. 95% of those surveyed have left their physical wallet or purse at home on at least one occasion, choosing instead to rely solely on mobile payments. 53% confirmed they do so multiple times each week.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Market - 40% of Growth to Originate from North America

The global radio frequency identification (rfid) market size is estimated to grow by USD 14.20 bn from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 12.83% during the forecast period. North America held the largest share of the global market in 2023, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 40%.

The RFID market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the expansion of smart factories and industries in the Americas. RFID technology, including FASTag, Gantry, and NFC, is integral to this digital transformation, streamlining inventory management and logistics. The total transborder freight between the US and its North American neighbors surged in 2021, underscoring the opportunity for RFID in import/export analysis. Geographic expansions and government mandates fuel market growth. Companies like GuardRFID lead the RFID market ecosystem, offering RFID readers, solutions, and tags.

Technological innovations, such as IoT and sensor networks, enhance real-time intelligence and resource optimization. However, challenges persist, including interference, technical limitations, and pricing analysis. Product approvals and launches, production analysis, and consumption analysis are crucial for market success. RFID solutions find applications in manufacturing facilities, retail, and supply chain management. Despite these advancements, security remains a concern. Restraints like tag costs and production consumption analysis must be addressed for continued growth. Recent developments include RFID technology's integration with middleware and Mixed Pallets. Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving RFID market.

The RFID market presents a significant opportunity for growth, driven by the increasing adoption of RFID technology in various sectors. Pestle analysis reveals key factors such as government investment in infrastructure projects, retail applications, and supply chain management as major growth drivers. Passive tags, RFID readers, and UHF technology are leading the market, offering long read ranges and real-time intelligence. Recent developments include product approvals, launches, and production analysis, with resource optimization and security being major concerns. Technological advancements and innovations, such as sensor networks and transponders, are addressing these challenges. However, tag costs and technical limitations remain key restraints.

The RFID market ecosystem consists of RFID readers, RFID solutions, RFID tags, and RFID technology providers. Real-time intelligence from RFID technology is revolutionizing industries, from warehousing and logistics to retail and sports infrastructure. UHF technology and ultra-high frequency RFID are gaining popularity due to their long read ranges and ability to handle large volumes of data. Trade regulations and pricing analysis are also important considerations in the RFID market. The value chain optimization of RFID solutions is driving efficiency and productivity in various industries, making it an essential technology for businesses seeking to streamline their operations.

California Heart Institute Tracks Supplies with RFID

Hospitals often require tens of thousands of medical products for hundreds of different procedures that serve a wide variety of patients and their unique needs. While these products are essential to patient care, have limited shelf life and are subject to recalls, they are often not tracked inside facilities or even to a specific patient.

Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), in Loma Linda, CA, has addressed the challenge at its International Heart Institute (IHI) with an automated inventory management system using a UHF RAIN RFID technology solution from VueMed.

With the implementation of the system, IHI reported that it is now able to support a significant increase in complexity and volume of cases without any significant increases in on-hand inventory.

INOX by Unison Hardware Announces the New Smart Interconnect Tubular Lock

INOX introduces the IST-IC6500 Smart Interconnect, a tubular Smart Lock that combines luxury design with smart access management. The Smart Interconnect is the newest offering in the INOX Smart product line, which includes smart locking solutions for both swinging and sliding doors.

The Smart Interconnect lock from INOX combines luxury design with smart access management. The Smart Interconnect is a perfect solution for residential, multi-family, Class A Office, and assisted living facilities. This lock offers simple single-action egress by retracting both the latch and the deadbolt when the inside lever is engaged.

The new Smart Interconnect lock from INOX by Unison Hardware, shown here in C19 Black CeraMax finish with a Frankfurt 205 lever. Communicating through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, the Smart Interconnect includes an integrated RFID reader with keypad that beautifully complements 14 designer levers and eight elegant finishes.  This lock has a unique single design that facilitates new installation and retrofits for both 4” center-to-center and 5.5” center-to-center applications.

The new Smart Interconnect lock from INOX by Unison Hardware, shown here in C19 Black CeraMax finish with a Frankfurt 205 lever. Communicating through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, the Smart Interconnect includes an integrated RFID reader with keypad that beautifully complements 14 designer levers and eight elegant finishes. This lock has a unique single design that facilitates new installation and retrofits for both 4” center-to-center and 5.5” center-to-center applications.

Tageos to Showcase Innovations at RFID Journal Live! 2024

At the upcoming RFID Journal LIVE! in Las Vegas, NV, April 9-11, Tageos will focus on three main topics: innovative RFID antenna designs based on the latest IC technologies, the valuable and close collaboration with leading market partners across the value chain to develop advanced applications, and the rapidly growing market significance of truly sustainable plastic-free RFID inlays and tags.

From the company’s constantly growing inlay and tag portfolio, the following new products will be presented to the public for the first time:

• EOS-202 U9XE, which integrates the latest extended memory iteration of NXP’s UCODE 9 ICs into our RFID inlay design, combining a compact product footprint with high performance for most types of healthcare, personal care, and consumer electronics items.

• EOS-261 M830 is based on the latest generation of the Impinj M800 IC series and takes Tageos’ compact and high-quality product solution to a new level of performance for item-level applications in retail and beyond.

• EOS-920 TT incorporates STMicroelectronics' advanced ST25TV-C chips and offers brand owners and retailers a versatile NFC-based alternative in a high-performance, tamper-evident form factor for demanding brand protection and product authentication applications.

• EOS-300 U9 Zero Max proves that true sustainability does not mean a functional compromise as it confirms the outstanding performance and quality level of its standard sibling the EOS-300 U9 for retail labeling and logistics packaging. Both products have a wide range of ARC approvals.

Identiv Announces Asset Purchase Agreement with Security Solutions Provider Vitaprotech for $145 Million

Identiv has entered into a definitive asset purchase agreement to sell its physical security, access card, and identity reader operations and assets to Vitaprotech, a security solutions provider. The proceeds from the sale will significantly strengthen Identiv’s financial position, generating capital to fund future organic and inorganic growth of its specialty IoT solutions business.

Under the terms of the agreement, Identiv will receive a cash payment of $145 million upon closing of the transaction, subject to customary adjustments. Identiv, Inc. will remain a publicly listed company on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbol “INVE.”

Aligned with this strategic direction, Identiv announced the appointment of Kirsten Newquist as President, IoT Solutions, effective April 15, 2024. Ms. Newquist is a seasoned business leader with over 25 years’ experience in strategy, product management, business development, and global sales and marketing. She will join Identiv after 17 years at Avery Dennison Corporation. She was most recently Global Vice President, Avery Dennison Smartrac, and previously held other leadership roles including the VP/GM of Avery Dennison Medical.

As the healthcare industry and its providers advance their digital transformations, Identiv’s aim is to ensure that its technology and core competencies become an integral and critical component of their journey, delivering a compelling value proposition for patients, physicians, providers, and payors, and addressing the critical unmet needs in healthcare around data science, compliance, utilization, effectiveness, and efficiency.

Arrive To Integrate nVIAsoft's Breakthrough Biometric Access Technology Into Its Last-Mile Platform

Arrive announced a partnership with nVIAsoft Corporation to integrate the world's most sophisticated and secure biometric verification technology into its advanced smart Mailbox-as-a-Service (MaaS) solutions platform.

nVIAsoft's "Verihand" technology uses-whole hand multi-modal pattern recognition to create a unique biometric and pure digital identity. The non-invasive, highly accurate identity verification technology uses a touchless sensor to identify the unique pattern of veins on an individual's hand. The much larger number of reference points spread across a hand makes the nVIAsoft solution more accurate than other available options.

After conducting due diligence on the Verihand technology, the Arrive team agreed it is the market leader in secure authentication.

Arrive technology has been piloted by hospitals, restaurants and the United States Postal Service. Arrive's platform offers a secure delivery point and features patented technology that enables the device to interact with Internet of Things devices, provide alerts to deter criminal activity and acts as charging stations. Units are expected to be in use this year. At scale, the platform will provide a treasure trove of data that, when paired with artificial intelligence, will provide a huge array of useful information.

Android’s AirTag competitor gears up for launch

The Android ecosystem was eagerly anticipating its own version of Apple’s AirTags, designed to help users track their belongings. Google had already established a crowd-sourced device-tracking network, lying dormant on 3 billion Android phones since December 2022. Partners had even prepared Bluetooth tag hardware, ready to roll out since May 2023. However, despite these preparations, the launch remained elusive, leaving users wondering about the delay.

The reason behind Google’s prolonged wait was none other than Apple. Just before Google’s partners announced their Android network Bluetooth tags, both tech giants jointly introduced a standard to detect “unknown” Bluetooth trackers. This standard would alert users if their phone suspected they were being tracked. The concern arose because AirTags, with their constant location visibility, could potentially be misused for stalking—by surreptitiously placing them in bags or cars.

Google played its part in this partnership by rolling out AirTag detection in July 2023. Simultaneously, Google made a crucial decision: “We’ve postponed the rollout of the Find My Device network until Apple implements protections for iOS.” Clearly, Google wanted to ensure a level playing field before competing with AirTags.

Google’s patience seems to be paying off. The first beta of iOS 17.5 has been released to testers, and intriguingly, it includes strings for detecting “unwanted” non-Apple tracking devices that might be tailing you. If all goes as planned, this update should ship sometime in May—11 months after Google’s initial release.

Similar to AirTags and the Tile network, Google’s project aims to enable small Bluetooth tracking tags that help users locate their belongings. These tags operate on super low power and can last up to a year on a small battery. While they lack the power for GPS, they cleverly “borrow” the GPS chip from compatible smartphones within range. When your phone detects any Bluetooth tags (even ones you don’t own), it notes their approximate location and anonymously uploads it to the cloud. This collaborative effort creates a worldwide, crowdsourced thing-tracking network.