EMVCo adds reduced range testing process for contactless payments acceptance on standard NFC devices

EMVCo has introduced a dedicated testing approval process designed to promote a more seamless experience when smartphones and other handheld mobile devices are used to accept contactless payments.

TapToMobile, also known as softPOS, Tap on Phone, Tap on Mobile, Tap to Phone and Tap to Pay, allows merchants to accept contactless payments directly on near field communication (NFC)-enabled consumer and enterprise devices, without the need for an additional connected device, dongle or attachment.

The quality of the TapToMobile user experience is dependent on NFC read ranges, which determine how close and precisely positioned the payment device needs to be to the acceptance device for payment information to flow.

While traditional terminals have a high read range, consumer and enterprise devices – which were not designed with payments as their primary function – are more limited. To address this challenge and promote a good user experience, EMVCo has defined minimum acceptance criteria and developed a supporting ‘reduced range’ approval process to evaluate the performance of consumer and enterprise devices for contactless payment acceptance.

Next-Generation Data Storage Market to Grow by USD 29.2 Billion from 2024-2028, Driven by IoT and Big Data Demand

The global next-generation data storage market size is estimated to grow by USD 29.2 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.08% during the forecast period.

Next-Generation Software Defined Storage (SDS) is a modern approach to enterprise data storage that separates software services, such as data administration, safety, and input/output capabilities, from hardware services. This separation enhances infrastructure flexibility, scalability, and automation capabilities. SDS also pools resources, abstracts hardware, and automates management, while supporting legacy applications, big data analytics, and cloud-based data apps. Vendors like EMC, NetApp, and IBM offer SDS-enabled infrastructure, making it a cost-effective alternative to reconfiguring existing arrays. Adopting new SSD arrays is more affordable than upgrading existing ones. SDS is increasingly essential due to the growing need for efficient data storage.

The Next-Generation Data Storage Market is experiencing significant growth due to the exponential increase in digital data production from mobile devices, smart wearables, connected devices, and the Internet of Things. With the rollout of 5G technology, faster data transfer and lower latency are becoming essential for data-driven applications, analytics, and automated systems. The expansion of e-commerce, banking services, financial services, and online shopping is leading to massive amounts of less structured data. Security breaches, configuration errors, and poor user rights pose serious data security issues, making cloud storage and server services increasingly popular. Higher storage capacity, scalability, and flexibility are key requirements for large-scale industries handling corporate information, patient information, and financial data. The market is responding with high-speed data storage solutions, automatic cloud backups, and ransomware attack protection. The industry is poised for continued expansion as the world becomes more digitized.

Oracle Helps Healthcare Organizations Automate Inventory Management with RFID

Oracle announced a new replenishment solution in Oracle Fusion Cloud Supply Chain & Manufacturing (SCM) to help healthcare customers optimize inventory management. The new RFID for Replenishment solution in Oracle Fusion Cloud Inventory Management, part of Oracle Cloud SCM, utilizes RFID technologies from Avery Dennison, Terso Solutions, and Zebra Technologies to automatically capture usage, update stock balances, track location, and trigger restocking of supplies and materials. RFID for Replenishment helps healthcare organizations increase productivity, expand inventory insights, and prevent delays by helping ensure the right amount of stock is in the right location at the right time.

With RFID for Replenishment in Oracle Inventory Management, healthcare organizations can:

    Track medical supplies: Helps organizations track a range of different medical supplies with either RFID-tagging for high-value non-implantable items; RFID-enabled cabinet, refrigerators, and freezers for items with specific climate requirements; or RFID-enabled Periodic Automatic Replenishment (PAR) bins for lower value supplies.
    Automate replenishment: Helps organizations eliminate manual product counts and automate restock by using RFID-enabled tagging, cabinets, and PAR bins to automatically create supply replenishment requests in Oracle Inventory Management.
    Gain real-time inventory visibility: Helps organizations maintain accurate stock counts by triggering a usage update as soon as an item has been removed from an RFID-enabled storage location.
    Reduce human error: Helps organizations reduce errors in lot and serial number reporting and maintain an accurate view of stock levels by fully automating inventory management.

Smart Parking Market in Western Europe to Grow by USD 2.63 Billion (2024-2028)

The smart parking market size in Western Europe is estimated to grow by USD 2.63 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  18.03%  during the forecast period. Integration of advanced technologies in smart parking is driving market growth, with a trend towards integration of ev charging stations with smart parking systems.

In Western Europe, the integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations within smart parking systems is addressing the increasing demand for EV infrastructure. Smart parking spaces are now equipped with sensors to detect occupancy and charging status, enabling real-time data management. Drivers can use mobile applications to locate available parking spots with charging stations, make reservations, and manage payments. Cities and private operators support the growth of EVs by providing accessible charging infrastructure, contributing to environmental sustainability goals. Siemens AG's E-Car Operation Centre (E-Car OC) software manages charging infrastructure in public parking garages and lots, allowing flexible and future-proof management of charging stations from various manufacturers. SKIDATA AG offers integrated EV charging solutions for smart parking facilities, attracting more EV drivers and generating additional revenue. In March 2022, SKIDATA AG launched an integrated solution named "Charge," combining ePlug charging stations with the 'Parking.Logic' smart management system, enabling customers to pay for parking and charging together. These advancements support the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure, enhance user convenience, and contribute to sustainable urban mobility, driving the growth of the smart parking market in Western Europe.

The Smart Parking Market in Western Europe is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for efficient parking solutions in commercial and residential complexes. Smart city initiatives, parking guidance systems, and reservation systems are trending in this market. Residential buildings, hospitals, hotels, shopping centers, universities, and parking garages are major users of these solutions. SMS and live updates provide convenience for parking operations. Autonomous cars and driverless vehicles are expected to increase the demand for smart parking systems. RFID tags and License Plate Recognition are commonly used for identification.

The BirdWatch parking system and IoT-based cloud platform offer analytics solutions for optimizing parking operations. OEMs, municipalities, and urban areas are investing in ultrasonic sensors and RFID technology for off-street parking. The commercial and government segments are the major consumers in this market. Vehicle sales and the urban population growth are driving factors.

emnify Revolutionizes IoT Connectivity in Brazil With Single SIM Card and Full National Coverage

emnify has launched a new solution that guarantees full coverage across all of Brazil using SIM cards with single IMSIs and local numbering. This initiative was made possible thanks to emnify’s partnership with Claro, one of the country’s largest telecommunications companies, which supports 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies and to ANATEL’s (National Telecommunications Agency) approval of the Roaming ORPAs (Wholesale Products Reference Offers) – an important achievement for the national market.

This project reinforces emnify’s commitment to the country, positioning the company at the forefront of technology for the benefit of the entire Brazilian market. Since 2023, emnify has been consolidating its presence in Brazil as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), with a robust sales and customer service structure, as well as the local manufacturing of its SIM cards through a partnership with Idemia.

These strategic agreements, combined with emnify’s SuperNetwork, provide businesses across Brazil with a simple, cutting-edge connectivity solution, enabling access to over 540 networks in 180 countries through a single SIM card, regardless of geographical borders.

emnify’s roaming-enabled solution changes the game in IoT connectivity in Brazil, offering unprecedented reliability and national coverage in the Brazilian market. This breakthrough not only fosters operational efficiencies, but also encourages innovation, promoting transformative growth in all industries that rely on IoT technology.

Global market for Data Center RFID projected to reach US$9.0 Billion by 2030

The global market for Data Center RFID was estimated at US$1.6 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$9.0 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 28.2% from 2023 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions.

Data Center Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is revolutionizing the way data centers manage and track their assets, including hardware components like servers, HDDs, and networking equipment. By utilizing wireless communication through radio waves to transfer data, RFID tags attached to data center assets enable automatic identification and tracking, significantly reducing the manual labor associated with asset management.

This technology provides real-time visibility into asset status, location, and history, which is crucial for optimizing asset utilization and streamlining inventory processes. The integration of RFID systems in data centers enhances operational efficiency by automating asset tracking, improving accuracy in inventory management, and reducing the risks of human errors, which are common in manual audits.

RFID technology in data centers not only simplifies asset management but also enhances overall operational efficiency by providing a seamless approach to monitoring and maintaining critical infrastructure. The ability of RFID systems to track the lifecycle of each component - from procurement to disposal - enables data center managers to make informed decisions about asset refresh cycles and maintenance schedules.

Moreover, RFID tags can store maintenance histories and configuration information, allowing for quick troubleshooting and less downtime during repairs or upgrades. The technology also plays a pivotal role in enhancing security measures; for instance, RFID can help ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive equipment, thereby enhancing physical security protocols within the facility.

Despite its benefits, the implementation of RFID technology in data centers comes with challenges that can impede its adoption. One of the primary concerns is the initial cost of setting up an RFID system, which includes expenses related to tags, readers, and software integration. There is also the complexity of integrating RFID data with existing data center management systems, which may require significant customization or upgrades to software.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of RFID can be limited by environmental factors within the data center, such as metal interference or radio wave disruptions, which can affect the accuracy and reliability of data transmission. Overcoming these technical and financial hurdles is crucial for data centers to fully leverage the advantages of RFID technology.

The growth in the data center RFID market is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for efficient data center operations and the rising need for accurate asset management solutions. As data centers continue to expand and the volume of assets increases, the efficiency of managing these assets becomes more critical. RFID technology offers a robust solution by enabling precise tracking and management of thousands of assets in real-time.

Additionally, the growing focus on reducing operational costs and enhancing data security further fuels the adoption of RFID systems in data centers. The integration of IoT and smart technologies into data center ecosystems also complements the use of RFID, as these technologies rely on accurate data for analytics and decision-making processes. Moreover, as companies increasingly prioritize compliance with industry regulations and standards, RFID helps ensure that asset management practices meet these requirements. These technological advancements, along with economic pressures and regulatory demands, collectively propel the expansion of the RFID market in data centers, highlighting its significant role in the future of data center asset management.

PayPal sets out vision for PayPal Everywhere with NFC

PayPal is set to swiftly leverage Apple’s newly accessible iPhone NFC capabilities as part of its omnichannel payments strategy, according to President and CEO Alex Chriss.

'We’ll begin in one European country this fall and expand over time. If it proves successful in the US, we’ll implement it there as well,' Chriss shared at the Goldman Sachs Communacopia + Technologies event.

Chriss’ remarks followed earlier hints about PayPal’s plans to utilize Apple’s NFC functionality for an NFC-enabled mobile wallet. This coincides with the recent launch of PayPal Everywhere, an omnichannel payments initiative currently in beta.

As part of this initiative, PayPal is enhancing its rewards program, offering 5% cashback on purchases within a selected merchant category for in-store payments. Top categories include groceries and gas, areas traditionally not associated with PayPal.

Additionally, customers can now add their PayPal Debit Card to Apple Wallet and use it with Apple Pay, providing more payment options.

Identiv Completes Sale of its Physical Security Business

Identiv announced the successful conclusion of its previously announced asset sale transaction with Vitaprotech, a security solutions provider. Upon closing the transaction, Identiv received a cash payment of approximately $144.2 million, subject to further customary adjustments, and Kirsten Newquist, formerly Identiv’s President, IoT Solutions, succeeded Steven Humphreys as the Company’s CEO.

As announced on August 8, 2024, management continues to expect fiscal Q3 2024 revenue from continuing operations to be in the range of $5.8 million to $6.1 million. Management will not be providing an update to its previous outlook for total revenue from continuing operations and revenue included in discontinued operations since the asset sale transaction closed prior to the end of fiscal Q3 2024.

Imperial Capital LLC served as financial advisor and Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP served as legal counsel to Identiv.

Beacon Market to Grow by USD 31.34 Billion by 2027

The global beacon market size is estimated to grow by USD 31.34 billion from 2023-2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of about 58.12% during the forecast period. Augmented adoption of beacon technology by diversified end users is driving market growth, with a trend towards rising demand for indoor positioning and indoor navigation (IPIN) systems.

IPIN technology utilizes sensors, magnetic positioning, and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to provide precise indoor positioning. Notable organizations, including Apple, American Airlines, Lord and Taylor, Walmart, The Coca-Cola Company, Macys.com, and Beiersdorf AG Nivea, have already adopted this technology for various applications. IPIN apps, which use location data to engage consumers, offer real-time directions, location-based advertising, social networking, and real-time tracking. While Global Positioning System (GPS) is effective for outdoor environments, it falls short for indoor positioning. Indoor location-based services (LBS) employ a combination of technologies, such as WiFi, infrared, ultrasound, WLAN modems, magnet positioning, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, and BLE beacons, to track people or objects indoors and offer navigation within buildings. The increasing demand for IPIN technology, confined to limited spaces, is expected to boost the market's growth during the forecast period.

iBeacon technology, utilizing Bluetooth smart signals, is trending in proximity marketing. This geolocation method sends promotional notifications to smart devices within the proximity zone. IBeacons consume battery and require managing assets for optimal resource usage. Beacon protocols like Eddystone ensure safety and security concerns are addressed. Proximity marketing in shopping malls and transportation and logistics is growing, with nascent stage technologies like Ultra-Wideband and Zigbee emerging. Coin-sized and keychain beacons offer convenience, while plug-in beacons cater to larger spaces. Communication range and competitive strategies are key benchmarks. Data security and wireless networks are important considerations. Beacons are used in shopping carts and wayfindr for impairments, providing audio-based directions. Market penetration and evaluation in mature segments and emerging lucrative markets are ongoing. Competitive assessment and technological advancements continue to shape this industry.

SwitchBot Unveils its Innovative Wallet Finder Card for Effortless Tracking

SwitchBot, a rising brand in smart home retrofitting and automation, unveils its latest innovation, the Wallet Finder Card, which is the perfect Find My device for a wallet. This thinnest and most versatile smart tracker is designed to keep your valuables safe and within reach, and revolutionize how to keep track of belongings with smart home integration.

SwitchBot Wallet Finder Card is engineered to be incredibly slim, measuring in at just 2.5mm in thickness, just like a coin. Keeping it more suitable for wallets and card bags compared to other tracking devices like the AirTag, and is easy to attach to items like luggage and backpacks. Its sleek and compact design makes it the ideal choice for anyone looking to keep track of their valuables without adding bulk.

Wallet Finder Card supports Apple's native Find My network and users can benefit from:

No additional app needed: Offers global precise positioning without the need for additional app downloads.
78dB sound alerts: Easily locate lost items with route guidance and sound alerts.
Proximity reminders: Users can receive instant notifications via smartphone if their items leave their vicinity.
Family sharing: Effortlessly share tracking functionality with family and friends for collective peace of mind.
Device locating: Find your smartphone or tablet by simply pressing your card button twice to make it emit a sound.
Smart Home Integration with Excellent Versatility

SwitchBot Wallet Finder Card isn't just for tracking. It can also serve as a home key, supporting NFC card functionality when used with SwitchBot Keypad/Keypad Touch, even when the Wallet Finder Card's battery is fully depleted.

Additionally, it can act as a Bluetooth location card when linked with a SwitchBot Hub, enabling automated home controls such as turning on lights or adjusting air conditioning as users approach home.

Sensor market projected to grow by USD 422.7 billion from 2024-2028

The global sensor market size is estimated to grow by USD 422.7 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  21.92%  during the forecast period. Rise in demand for IoT technology-based devices is driving market growth, with a trend towards rise in adoption of wearable devic.

Wearable gadgets, including smartwatches, smart bands, and headsets, have become increasingly popular in the consumer electronics industry. These devices, which are designed to be worn on the body, offer intelligent operation capabilities. In the healthcare sector, wearable electronics featuring sensors have gained significant traction, particularly in developing economies. Sensors, such as those found in fitness trackers, pulse oximeters, and medical-grade wearables, provide real-time health monitoring solutions with benefits like high accuracy, compact size, and resistance to electromagnetic radiation. The global sensor market is poised for growth due to the rising adoption of these devices.

The sensor market is thriving with innovative technologies like Humidity sensor tech, led by Molybdenum sulfide (MoS2), reducing detection time. Sensor components such as microcontrollers, transceivers, amplifiers, ADC & DAC, and NEMS are key players. Industries like Industrial IT & telecom, Aerospace & defense, and Consumer electronics are major consumers. Trends include Luna Ring tech for noise reduction, Glucowear for healthcare, Sensirion for surveillance cameras, and RFID sensors for retail. NEMS sensors in IT/telecom, industrial sector, and aerospace & defense sector are game-changers. Smart devices, healthcare, security, automotive, and industrial sensors market are growing. Smartphone OEMs and biomedical applications use MEMS technology-based sensors. Weather forecast systems and IoT platforms also leverage sensor tech.

AIoT Platform Market to Reach $424 Billion, Globally, by 2032

According to a new report, the AIoT platform market was valued at $27.7 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $424 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 35.8% from 2024 to 2032.

The surge in digitalization, rise in need for intelligent transportation systems, and increase in the adoption of advanced technologies drive the growth of the market. In addition, surge in adoption of IoT devices, advancements in AI technology, and growth in demand for automation are expected to fuel the growth of the market during the forecast period. Furthermore, expansion of AIoT applications in various industries, such as healthcare, agriculture, and retail, is expected to provide lucrative growth opportunities for the market in the upcoming years. However, data privacy & security concerns and lack of standardization in data formats, communication protocols, & networks are expected to hamper the market growth.

By offering, the solution segment held the major share in 2023, garnering less than two-thirds of the global AIoT platform market revenue. AIoT platform market is rapidly evolving owing to the increasing demand for edge computing, which involves processing data closer to the source rather than sending it to a centralized data center. The services segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 38.7% during the forecast period, owing to services reducing the time and costs associated with optimizing systems in the initial phase of deployment, as services help to deploy and integrate distinct solutions in an enterprise ecosystem.

By solution type, the device management segment contributed to the highest share in 2023, accounting for more than half of the global AIoT platform market revenue. AIoT can help streamline device management by providing real-time insights into device performance, identifying issues and anomalies, and predicting maintenance needs. The application management segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 38.6% throughout the forecast period, owing to ensuring that applications run smoothly, are secure, and meet the needs of the organization. With the growing complexity of modern technology, application management has become increasingly important and challenging.

By industry vertical, the manufacturing segment accounted for more than one-fifth of the global AIoT platform market share in 2023 and is expected to remain dominant by 2032, owing to monitoring and analyzing production processes in real time. These platforms can detect defects or anomalies, enabling quick action to prevent product quality issues. This reduces the risk of product recalls and associated costs. The transportation and logistics segment is expected to display the fastest CAGR of 40.7% throughout the forecast period, owing to increase in adoption of autonomous vehicles and drones. AIoT platforms can enable these vehicles to navigate and operate autonomously, improving safety and efficiency while reducing costs.  

By end user, the B2B segment accounted for nearly half of the global AIoT platform market share in 2023, and is expected to display the fastest CAGR of 37.5% from 2024-2032. With AIoT platforms, B2B enterprises can unlock new opportunities, drive competitive advantage, and accelerate digital transformation in a rapidly evolving market landscape.  

By region, North America garnered the highest share in 2023, accounting for more than one-third of the global AIoT platform market revenue in 2023, and is projected to retain its dominance by 2032, owing to the increase in adoption of IoT devices, advancements in AI technology, and the growth in demand for data analytics and automation in various industries in the region. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 42.0% during the forecast period, owing to strong technological capabilities, encouraging governmental regulations on advanced technologies such as AI, ML, automation and IoT.

Global Smart Lock Market is set for remarkable growth

The Global Smart Lock Market is set for remarkable growth, forecasted to expand from US$ 6.33 Bn in 2023 to US$ 13.14 Bn by 2030, progressing at a CAGR of 11.7%. In terms of volume, the market recorded 24.02 million units in 2023, highlighting a rising trend in smart security solutions.

The market's robust growth is primarily driven by the growing trend of the Internet of Things (IoT) and rising consumer awareness about the benefits of advanced security systems. Smart locks are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and enhanced security features. However, the market faces challenges due to the high costs associated with smart locks, which could impede its widespread adoption.

Deadbolts dominate with over 36% share in 2023, while Lever Handles are witnessing the fastest growth. In terms of technology, Smart Card technology leads, holding more than 38% market share. The Residential sector emerges as a significant application area, generating revenue exceeding US$ 2.3 Bn in 2023. Geographically, North America holds the largest market share of over 34%, while Asia Pacific displays the highest CAGR of 13.45%.

The market comprises major players like Allegion plc, ASSA ABLOY AB, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., and Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. These companies, among others, play a pivotal role in shaping market trends through innovations and strategic developments.

North America, with its robust technological infrastructure and high consumer spending power, leads the market. The US, Canada, and Mexico are key contributors in this region. Asia Pacific, led by countries like China, India, and Japan, is the fastest-growing region, showing a high adoption rate of smart lock technologies due to increasing security concerns and technological advancements.

IoT Middleware Market worth $41.7 billion by 2029

The IoT Middleware Market is expected to reach USD 41.7 billion by 2029 from USD 18.5 billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 17.6 % during 2024–2029, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™.

loT Middleware market is largely driven by the growth of loT devices in different industries at a relatively higher growth rate. They are being employed in homes, industries, healthcare sector, transport sector, and many more other sectors. This implies that the more connected devices there are, the more difficult it becomes to manage them. loT Middleware can be understood as an intermediate layer that is designed to mediate interactions, data sharing, and device control in areas of various platforms anc devices. In this regard, it assists the organizations in compiling a host of loT devices and ensure they work in a coordinated manner, thus improving performance.

IoT has continued to increase in health care because of the adoption of implanted sensors, fast cellular networks such as LTEs and 3Gs, and wireless devices. This interconnection of sensors and devices ensures that healthcare organizations can coordinate clinical activities, monitor workflow, and even dispense patient care from the patient's home or any other location. Consequently, a great emphasis is placed on introducing solid applications and correlated technologies in healthcare. Integrated health technologies, which include using new points of care through IoT middleware solutions, are being embraced, including remote patient monitoring, health care worker and patient workflow management, medication management, and medical asset tracking. Some players are moving in this area, taking advantage of experience in the communications infrastructure essential for M2M communication. M2M has numerous uses in healthcare, such as cell phones with RFID-sensor features that can track medical indices and control medication.

Device Management platforms offer the necessary frameworks to ensure that connected devices are effectively managed and controlled. It allows real-time interaction across the connected devices with the hub application and the processed data transmissions. This often provides services like device onboarding, configuration, & monitoring and firmware update to help businesses to maintain massive IoT deployments. This also ensures that devices are properly functioning well, protected, and updated and thus reduce the incidences of breakages, losses, or delays. In addition, this platform also has extensibility to have new devices added in the future when the IoT network expands. The middleware platform addresses the management challenge for IoT devices making it easier for organizations to keep track of the health of the devices and security of their IoT infrastructure.

Carrucci Shoes Steps Ahead with RFID

When Carrucci Shoes received an RFID technology mandate from one of its retail partners last year, the company faced a decision: either attach RFID tags to products destined for the retailer and absorb the cost, or leverage the technology for its own internal benefits. Carrucci chose the latter, integrating RFID tags into every boxed pair of shoes to automate the receiving and shipping processes.

Using RFID4U’s TagMatiks Wedge solution, Carrucci has achieved the inventory accuracy necessary for online sales. This technology ensures that the correct products are shipped to retailers and provides the high level of inventory accuracy needed for e-commerce. The solution is cost-effective, offering up to 500 scans for free and includes a “success center” for live chat and support.

Since implementing the RFID system in May, Carrucci Shoes has reduced labor costs, increased inventory visibility for e-commerce, and minimized shipping errors, according to Janice Hu, operations director at Carrucci Shoes’ parent company, King Windsor Group.

Trasna IoT group acquires eSIM leader Workz

In a move that significantly expands its capabilities in the IoT space, Trasna Holdings, specialising in IoT communications, has acquired Workz, a pioneer in cloud-based eSIM solutions. The acquisition positions Trasna as one of the leading providers of current and future mobile IoT technologies such as SIM, eSIM and SoC.

Trasna, headquartered in Ireland and possessing operations across Europe, provides semiconductor capabilities and related system-on-chip (SoC) solutions. The integration of Dubai-based Workz adds expertise in eSIM and SIM hardware and software, including over-the-air services, manufacturing, and data management. In 2021, Workz established itself at the forefront of eSIM technology by becoming the first to launch a certified cloud-based eSIM management service. The platform currently hosts over 150 network operators worldwide and was, last year, heralded by Counterpoint Research as an important innovation for the industry.

The acquisition comes at a pivotal time in the cellular IoT market as the industry transitions from traditional SIM cards to eSIM (embedded SIM) and emerging System-on-Chip (SoC) technologies such as iSIM (integrated SIM). Demand for next-generation SIM solutions by telcos, device manufacturers and IoT providers is steadily growing with the advent of new technologies such as IoT and 5G. According to Counterpoint Research, over 9 billion devices with embedded or integrated SIM technology are expected to be shipped by 2030. The newly strengthened entity is designed to capitalise on this market opportunity.

Real-time Location Systems Market worth $15.79 billion by 2029

The global real-time location system market size is estimated to be USD 6.03 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 15.79 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 21.2% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The demand for real-time tracking and visibility of assets and people across various industries has led to significant growth in the real-time location system market. The increasing need for safety and security in healthcare, education, oil & gas, and manufacturing industries also contributes to this growth. While real-time location system (RTLS) solutions may be more expensive than traditional tracking technologies, the emergence of innovative startups and customized solutions has increased market competitiveness.

RTLS solutions rely on a network of hardware to track the location of objects and people indoors, and the core components typically include readers, tags (or trackers), and, sometimes, access points. Readers are stationary devices placed throughout the monitored area that use radio waves or other signals to detect and receive data from RTLS tags, acting as the pillars of the system by capturing signals from tags, calculating their positions, and transmitting this data to the RTLS software for processing. Trackers, which are small, battery-powered devices attached to assets or people, carry identification information and potentially additional sensor data, with the RTLS system relying on their signals to pinpoint locations. Access points, optional in some RTLS deployments, act as relays that collect data from readers and forward it to the central RTLS software, improving data transmission efficiency and providing additional functionalities such as network management in expansive or complex layouts. These components are crucial for RTLS as they provide continuous location updates for real-time tracking, improve efficiency by optimizing workflows and automating tasks, and enhance safety by monitoring personnel in hazardous areas or tracking valuable equipment for security.

RFID is one of the most popular wireless standards used in RTLS. It detects electromagnetic fields transmitted by small electronic tags attached to objects. There are two main types of RFID technology-based tags—passive RFID tags, which have no battery, and active RFID tags, which have a battery. The main application of RFID technology is to detect or identify an object—the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) number, the serial number, the number of items in a box, and more. Some typical RFID applications use readers mounted in fixed locations to detect tags as they move within the detection or scan range of a reader, and mobile handheld readers/scanners are also used to read RFID tags. The key advantage of RFID technology, which differentiates it from other wireless technologies, is the ability of RF signals to penetrate through walls and floors. RFID technology-based RTLS solutions also require significantly smaller and simpler space/infrastructure compared to Wi-Fi, UWB, IR, and ultrasonic technology-based systems.

Now Available: New Version of the Bluetooth Core Specification

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) released a new version of the Bluetooth Core Specification. Bluetooth Core Specification version 6.0 includes new features and several feature enhancements, including Bluetooth® Channel Sounding, decision-based advertising filtering, monitoring advertisers, an enhancement to the Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISOAL), the LL extended feature set, and a frame space update.

Bluetooth Core Specification version 6.0 continues the trend for Bluetooth technology to be regularly updated with new features and technical improvements. Bluetooth Channel Sounding will enable a standards-based, secure approach to reliable and accurate distance measurement and many types of products will benefit. Decision-based advertising filtering will improve throughput and reliability when using Bluetooth extended advertising for connectionless data transfer. Monitoring advertisers will be useful to application developers and enable the provision of better user interfaces and an improved user experience. The improvements made to ISOAL will benefit audio applications for which low latency is important. And the LL extended feature set capability enables feature support discovery in the most sophisticated, feature-rich devices.

The user experience of Find My solutions can be greatly improved, making it easier and faster to locate lost items. In digital key solutions, Bluetooth Channel Sounding will add a robust layer of security, ensuring that only authorized users within a specified range can unlock doors or access secure areas. And, by infusing billions of everyday devices with true distance awareness, Bluetooth® Channel Sounding unlocks a world of possibilities for developers, freeing them to imagine and create innovative experiences that will continue to enhance our connection with our devices, one another, and the world around us.

The Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Extended Advertising feature supports a series of related packets being transmitted on both primary and secondary radio channels. Decision-based advertising filtering allows a scanning device to use the content of a packet received on a primary advertising channel to decide if it should scan for related packets on the secondary channels, improving scanning efficiency by reducing the time spent scanning on secondary channels for packets that might not contain PDUs relevant to the application.

The Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISOAL) makes it possible for larger data frames to be transmitted in smaller link-layer packets and ensures the associated timing information that is needed for the correct processing of the data by receivers can be reconstituted. ISOAL can produce either framed or unframed PDUs depending on certain variables. If framed PDUs are produced, latency can be increased as a result. In Bluetooth Core Specification version 6.0, ISOAL has been improved by defining a new framing mode that reduces latency for use cases that are particularly sensitive to this issue. The same feature also improves reliability.
LL Extended Feature Set: With this advancement, devices can exchange information about the link-layer features that they each support. This capability has been enhanced to support larger numbers of features, which has become necessary as the sophistication and versatility of Bluetooth LE have grown.

Amazon Using AI, RFID for Retail Checkout

Amazon is enhancing its frictionless checkout system, Just Walk Out, by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and RFID technology.

Amazon officials have introduced a new version that leverages AI to provide faster receipts for customers, more accurate tracking of shopper choices, and reduced costs for business owners using the system.

Launched eight years ago, Just Walk Out employs a network of cameras, sensors, and machine learning algorithms to monitor what shoppers intend to purchase. Although the technology was recently removed from Amazon Fresh grocery stores, it continues to be utilized in stadiums, airports, and other businesses.

Previous versions of Just Walk Out relied on multiple AI models that communicated with each other to determine if a shopper picked up a product, if the product image matched the AI’s expectations, and how many items were taken. The new model consolidates these functions into a single system, enabling faster and more accurate decision-making, according to Jon Jenkins, vice president of Amazon’s Just Walk Out team.

The updated model simultaneously processes inputs from various sources, including videos of shoppers, product images, a 3D store map indicating item locations, and shelf sensors that measure weight changes when items are picked up.

Openscreen introduces Scan Support to Transform Broadband Self-Install and Customer Support

Openscreen announced its on-device QR Code solution, Openscreen Scan Support. In an environment where digital enablement and cost reduction are industry imperatives, Scan Support delivers one-scan access to guided digital support flows where and when customers need them most – at the physical point of issue. 

By placing device-specific QR Codes directly onto gateways and streaming devices, Scan Support dramatically reduces traditional website navigation and other points of friction that drive customers to call-in and request expensive support visits.

Key Benefits of Openscreen Scan Support for Broadband Customers & Operators:

Device Specific Support Microsites: Scan Support leverages Openscreen Engage, a drag-and-drop QR Code and microsite creator that enables the rapid implementation of device-specific sites to support the entire lifecycle of routers, set-top boxes, and other devices.

Journey Tracking & Mapping: Openscreen's microsite scan and click tracking enables detailed insights and reporting into how and when customers are using self-support tools, and journey drop-off points and resolution rates.

Increased Call & Service Visit Deflection: Scan Support significantly increase digital engagement and issue resolution for customer support, thereby reducing customer call-ins and technical support visits.

Rapid Implementation, No Code Solution: Openscreen Scan Support deploys with no-coding or IT intrusion under 90 days, with in year Return on Investment.

Visa Unveils Groundbreaking Payment Innovations at Global Fintech Fest 2024

Visa has unveiled an array of innovative payment products and solutions during the Global Fintech Fest 2024. These advancements, developed in collaboration with a range of partners, are set to drive digital payment adoption across India by streamlining payment processes and enhancing transaction security and customer experience.

HDFC Bank's All-in-One POS Device: HDFC Bank has introduced an all-in-one POS, a compact payment device for merchants that integrates point-of-sale (PoS), QR code scanning, and soundbox. As a network partner, Visa is collaborating with HDFC to accelerate acceptance at new touchpoints and increase digitization across a broader merchant base.

Paytm NFC Card Soundbox: Visa, in partnership with Paytm, has launched the Paytm NFC Card Soundbox — India's first two-in-one device combining mobile QR payments with an affordable card machine for offline merchants. This device facilitates payments via debit/credit card tap and QR code scan, simplifying transactions for millions of merchants.

IDFC First Bank and Visa's Ashva Metal Credit Card: Visa and IDFC First Bank have introduced the Ashva Metal Credit Card, which combines luxury, high-value rewards, exceptionally low forex markup, and complimentary lounge access, domestically and internationally. This Infinite Metal Credit Card caters to premium customers with exclusive perks.

CRED In-App Card Payment Experience with Tokenisation: Visa and CRED have launched a new in-app payment feature using device tokenisation. This feature, initially available exclusively to CRED members, enhances security and convenience by eliminating the need to store sensitive payment data across merchant sites. Once a card is tokenised on a trusted device via CRED, it will be available for use across multiple merchant apps offering CRED Pay, removing the need for separate tokenisation with each merchant.

Pine Labs Mini Device: In collaboration with Pine Labs, Visa has introduced the Pine Labs Mini, a soundbox-enabled device that supports QR, NFC, and card payments. This device aims to boost digital payment acceptance in Tier 3–6 cities, by providing a more advanced and eco-friendly alternative to traditional printed QR codes, offering a low-cost point-of-sale solution for merchants.

HSBC Premier Signature Debit Card: In collaboration with HSBC, Visa has introduced the HSBC Premier Signature Debit Card. This premium card offers an array of exclusive benefits, including VIP hotel perks, higher spending limits, special dining offers, and global airport assistance, designed to cater to the needs of discerning customers.

Push Provisioning with AU Small Finance Bank and Juspay: Visa has partnered with AU Small Finance Bank and Juspay to introduce an innovative Push Provisioning solution. This new technology allows cardholders to seamlessly tokenise their payment credentials through their issuer's app, significantly enhancing both security and convenience for digital transactions.

HelixIntel Enhances CMMS Platform with HSB IoT Sensors

HelixIntel is announcing its latest innovation: the integration of HSB IoT sensor technology with its CMMS platform, PropertyOS. This combination empowers users with real-time insights into environmental conditions, system performance, and automated work orders. The upgrades to PropertyOS, enhance maintenance management and significantly improve asset reliability.

The fusion of HSB IoT sensor data with CMMS capabilities marks a significant leap forward in maintenance management. By incorporating data from sensors that detect moisture, heat, and other critical metrics, HelixIntel's PropertyOS platform now offers unparalleled visibility and control over facility operations. Users can monitor sensor readings via an intuitive dashboard to help predict equipment failures and help prevent them from happening. This integration facilitates proactive maintenance, enhances asset performance, and minimizes costly downtime.

Alerts can automatically trigger customized workflows as designed by users. Tasks are then assigned to the appropriate personnel, and all aspects of the work orders are tracked from inception through completion.

In addition to IoT, PropertyOS enriches asset data with equipment photos, open work items, manufacturers and more, generating comprehensive digital records. These records help managers spot trends and coordinate maintenance teams more effectively. With the integration of predictive analytics, potential equipment failures may be identified before they occur, enhancing decision-making and maintenance planning to ensure optimal asset performance.

Mastercard Selects India for the Global Launch of Its Payment Passkey Service, Accelerating Secure Online Checkout for Millions of Shoppers

During a keynote presentation at Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai, Mastercard announced the worldwide launch of its new Payment Passkey Service to make online shopping more secure and easier than ever. Debuting first in India as a pilot with some of the nation’s largest payments players, including payment aggregators such as Juspay, Razorpay and PayU, online merchants such as bigbasket and leading banks such as Axis Bank, the service will give millions of consumers more control and peace of mind when checking out online.

Despite the rising popularity of one-time passwords (OTPs) due to their ease of use, they are increasingly vulnerable to online scams such as phishing, SIM swapping and message interception. In India, the incidence of fraud cases has surged by nearly 300% in the last two years, as reported by the Reserve Bank of India’s Annual Report for 2023-2024.

Enter payment passkeys. They use device-based biometric authentication methods such as fingerprints or facial scans, but for an entirely new purpose: to streamline online shopping experiences. By replacing traditional passwords and OTPs, the Mastercard Payment Passkey Service makes transactions not only faster, but also more secure against fraud and scams. With payment passkeys, consumers can say goodbye to the hassle of forgetting or accidentally sharing their passwords or OTPs.

The service leverages passkeys and tokenization to secure a consumer’s online checkout interaction, ensuring that the transaction is secure and no financial account data is shared with third parties – rendering it useless to fraudsters and scammers. The Mastercard Payment Passkey Service is a game changer for online commerce:

To confirm the payment, users can use the biometric authentication mechanism features on their device – whether it’s a fingerprint, face scan or PIN.

India, with its rapidly expanding payment ecosystem and advanced tokenization market, is embracing payment passkeys and enhanced biometric authentication in line with the Reserve Bank of India's goal for a safer, more resilient payment system. Payment passkeys aren’t just about speed and convenience — they’re about safety and enhancing a user’s shopping experience. For businesses, it means fewer abandoned carts and less fraud. For consumers, it means faster checkouts and peace of mind.

The Mastercard Payment Passkey Service is built for online or remote tokenized transactions, which today help significantly reduce fraud and increase approval rates. By combining the tokenization of payment credentials with seamless biometric authentication, Mastercard is bringing EMVCo, World Wide Web Consortium and the FIDO Alliance industry standards together to speed and secure the checkout experience.

IoT Security Market worth $56.2 billion by 2029

The global IoT Security Market size is projected to grow from USD 24.2 billion in 2024 to USD 56.2 billion by 2029 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.4% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets.  Organizations face significant financial losses and reputational damage because of increasing cyberattacks on IoT devices. This has made the organizations aware and adopt robust security solutions to protect against threats like device hijacking, data theft, and supply chain intrusions.

Organizations across industries experience the benefits of IoT, the complexity and vulnerability of their networks increase exponentially. For this, Providers such as IBM, Microsoft, Check Point, Fortinet, Atos offer IoT security solutions such as device authentication, data encryption, secure communication protocols, and advanced threat detection. These solutions are beneficial to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber attacks. Comprehensive security measures are necessary to safeguard sensitive data, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain operational resilience. The dynamic nature of the IoT landscape demands continuous adaptation and innovation in security solutions to counter evolving threats.

Organizations increasingly rely on expert assistance for IoT asset protection Professional service providers offer comprehensive solutions, from risk assessments to ongoing monitoring, helping organizations mitigate security risks and comply with industry regulations. The demand for professional guidance in implementing and managing IoT security solutions increases because of the complexities in IoT ecosystems. The need for tailored security solutions, the intricacy of IoT systems, and the lack of in-house expertise that drive this demand. Professional services, including consulting, integration, and managed services, are crucial for organizations tackling IoT security challenges. The increasing frequency of ransomware attacks on IoT devices and concerns about critical infrastructure further highlight the need for professional services.

AI Impact on Pallet Market In Europe growth, set to increase by USD 7.31 billion from 2024-2028

The global pallet market in Europe  size is estimated to grow by USD 7.31 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  5.44%  during the forecast period.  High applications of pallets in shipping and load-handling sectors is driving market growth, with a trend towards emergence of iot integration in pallets.

IoT integration in pallets involves equipping them with sensors, communication devices, and data processing capabilities. This enables real-time tracking of pallet location, movement, and condition throughout the supply chain. Sensors monitor environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and shock, which is crucial for industries like pharmaceuticals and food. Data generated from IoT-enabled pallets can be analyzed to identify trends, optimize processes, and manage inventory effectively. This data-driven approach enhances supply chain efficiency and prevents stockouts or overstock situations. The market for IoT-integrated pallets is expected to grow significantly due to these benefits.

Europe's pallet market is thriving with trends shaping the industry. Food safety regulations are a top priority, driving demand for robust pallets. Airports and docks see efficient loading and unloading through automation, with conveyor systems and robotic picking systems streamlining processes. Automation boosts productivity and warehouse space utilization. Online shopping growth fuels the need for distribution centers, benefiting consumers with faster delivery. Standardized pallets ensure compatibility, with various sizes and designs catering to different business needs. Machinery and metal construction, including forklifts and front loaders, ensure pallets can handle heavy loads. Substrates, stretch wrap, pallet collars, and glue maintain product stability during transport. Workers stack products securely using plastic wraps and cardboard boxes, while shippers rely on logistics services for seamless delivery of business items.

Intelliguard, Cencora Partner to Increase Compatibility of RFID-Tagged Medications, Medication Management Systems

Intelliguard, a fast-growing provider of medication management and data-intelligence solutions, announces an industry-transforming partnership with Cencora, a leading, global pharmaceutical solutions organization, to elevate compatibility between RFID-tagged medication and RFID-based medication management systems.

Intelliguard’s Mira Prep and Mira Care stations can now read and decode Cencora medication enabled with RFID to seamlessly aggregate data from RFID-tagged medications. The expanded capability allows providers access to a wider selection of medications compatible with Intelliguard’s systems.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in streamlining the medication supply chain processes for manufacturers and pharmacists by providing pre-tagged medications to hospitals. Additionally, it fosters a pivotal shift toward broader adoption of RFID technology in medication management.

Expanding the number of RFID source-tagged medications compatible with Intelliguard products reduces barriers to access and enhances inventory management. The end result is simplified workflows and an increased focus on patient safety across healthcare facilities.

As hospitals and health systems adopt RFID technology, manufacturers and distributors become increasingly involved in medication tagging. This represents a crucial advancement in healthcare and cascades into tangible benefits from manufacturing to distribution to hospital administration.

Infrared Radiation (IR) Emitter And Receiver Market size is set to grow by USD 677 million from 2024-2028

The global infrared radiation (IR) emitter and receiver market size is estimated to grow by USD 677 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.92% during the forecast period. Increase in adoption of ir sensors is driving market growth, with a trend towards integration of ir cores into smartphones. However, high cost of ingaas technology poses a challenge.

The integration of infrared (IR) sensors in smartphones is on the rise due to cost reduction and sensor miniaturization. This trend is driven by the reduction of sensor die size, wafer-level packaging techniques, 3D integration, and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). IR sensors have various applications such as spot temperature measurement, photo editing, and thermal layer adjustment. With the increasing sales of smartphones, expected to surpass two billion units by the end of the forecast period, the demand for IR emitters and receivers is anticipated to grow significantly. This growth can be attributed to the cost savings from sensor miniaturization and the multifunctionality of IR sensors in mobile devices.

The Infrared (IR) emitter and receiver market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing trends in surveillance, digitalization, and various industry verticals. The armed forces and automotive sector are major consumers, utilizing IR technology for night vision and thermal imaging. The entertainment industry, including television, DVD players, and AC remote controls, also contributes to the market's expansion. Emerging economies with growing disposable incomes are expected to boost demand for IR imaging devices, sensors, and fire detection systems. In the manufacturing sector, IR sensors are used for automation and material modeling. The strategic market includes security and defense against terrorism, requiring advanced IR imaging technology for surveillance securities. Heat processes, motion tracking, and controller communication in IoT devices, gaming consoles, virtual reality, and smart home devices further expand the market's reach.