China develops crystal that could enable GPS-free navigation for submarines

Chinese researchers have developed a new crystal that could one day help submarines, missiles, and spacecraft navigate without relying on GPS. The material is designed to generate extremely short-wavelength ultraviolet light needed for advanced thorium nuclear clocks—a next-generation timekeeping technology considered far more precise than today’s atomic clocks.  

Navigation systems like GPS depend on highly accurate timing signals from satellites. If those signals are jammed, spoofed, blocked underwater, or unavailable in deep space, navigation becomes difficult. Nuclear clocks could solve that problem by keeping ultra-precise time internally, allowing vehicles to determine position through dead reckoning and other onboard methods.  

The new fluorinated borate crystal reportedly converts laser light to 145.2 nanometers, surpassing the previous benchmark of around 150 nanometers. Scientists say this is an important step toward the 148.3 nanometer wavelength needed to activate thorium-229 nuclei for practical nuclear clocks.  

If fully developed, the technology could reduce dependence on satellite navigation for military systems such as submarines and missiles, while also helping spacecraft navigate autonomously far from Earth. However, this remains a research-stage breakthrough rather than an operational system.

The Masters used badges with RFID tags in them

The Masters has been a golf tradition for over eighty-five years, but that doesn't mean they aren't changing with the times. 

Did you know media badges have RFID tags inside them so the club knows where each person is at all times?

The chip cannot determine an individual's identity, just the location of the badge.

According to the official Masters privacy policy, these tags are used to track movement, enhance security, and prevent ticket fraud.

The RFID technology acts as a deterrent to unauthorized entry and allows for monitoring of unusual attendance patterns, such as badge sharing.

Lockheed Martin has won a GPS contract worth up to $105 million

Lockheed Martin has secured a contract worth up to $105 million to modernize the ground control system for U.S. GPS satellites. The agreement covers support for current satellites as well as launch operations, early orbit management, and eventual retirement of the upcoming GPS IIIF generation.

The deal comes at a critical time, as the U.S. Department of Defense is considering ending the troubled OCX program managed by RTX. That project has faced years of delays and major cost overruns, with delivery pushed back since 2016 and projected costs rising from $3.7 billion to nearly $8 billion.

Lockheed has already been developing the alternative AEP system (Architecture Evolution Plan), which is currently used to operate existing GPS satellites. With this latest upgrade, AEP could also manage future GPS IIIF satellites, potentially becoming a full replacement for OCX.

The U.S. Space Force expects to launch the first GPS IIIF satellite next year, while 22 satellites are already in production.

UnionPay International and Samsung Wallet Launch Global Mobile Payment Collaboration

UnionPay International (UPI) and Samsung Electronics jointly announced the launch of a collaborative payment service based on the NFC-QRC all-in-one mobile payment solution in Shanghai. Following the collaboration's rollout, global cardholders can link their UnionPay cards to Samsung Wallet and flexibly choose between NFC Payment or QR code payment for transactions. Hong Kong SAR will be the first market to launch this service, with BOC Credit Card (International) Co., Ltd. participating as the inaugural issuing partner.

As the world's leading Android smartphone manufacturer, Samsung Wallet service is available in 62 countries and regions. This partnership will significantly expand the global reach of UnionPay's mobile Pay service among Android users worldwide and accelerate local digital card issuance. UnionPay International will partner with Samsung Electronics to launch exclusive instant discount promotions in Hong Kong SAR for UnionPay cardholders using Samsung Galaxy smartphones.

Larry Wang, CEO of UnionPay International stated, "This collaboration with Samsung Electronics and BOC Credit Card is a pivotal practice of leveraging three parties' strengths to advance cross-border mobile payment ecosystem construction. Adhering to the principle of open cooperation and mutual benefit, UnionPay integrates its global payment network with Samsung's terminal ecosystem advantages to make cross-border payments more convenient and inclusive. "

Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of the Digital Wallet Team at the Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics commented, "The collaboration between Samsung Wallet and UnionPay goes beyond a simple technical integration, marking a significant first step in providing a more convenient and secure mobile payment environment for both companies' customers. Furthermore, the combination of Samsung Electronics' global capabilities and UnionPay's partnerships with issuers and merchants is expected to contribute to the further activation of mobile payments, both offline and online, not only in the Greater China region but also in the global market. In addition to NFC Contactless payments, we will also swiftly introduce QR payments to continuously enhance the competitiveness of Samsung Wallet-UPI payment coverage."

Stephen Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of Bank of China (Hong Kong), said, "We are delighted that BOC Credit Card has become the first institution in Hong Kong to support the payment service launched by UnionPay International and Samsung Electronics, enabling BOC UnionPay credit cardholders to enjoy exclusive priority to bind their cards to Samsung Wallet. The service not only offers a convenient payment experience to customers in Hong Kong, but also spearheads the global rollout of Samsung Wallet, marking a key step forward in innovative mobile payments."

The "NFC-QRC all-in-one" solution realizes one app for diverse payment options. It enables overseas partner institutions to efficiently launch two UnionPay mobile payment services simultaneously, catering to the differentiated needs of various user groups worldwide. Currently, UnionPay mobile payment services, including UnionPay mobile QuickPass and UnionPay QR code payment, are accepted in more than 100 countries and regions. Outside China's mainland, UnionPay mobile QuickPass services are accepted at over 23 million POS terminals, while QR code interoperability projects have been achieved or advanced in across approximately 50 countries and regions, and tens of millions merchants now accept UnionPay QR codes.

Identiv Expands ID-Safe NFC Tag Portfolio to Enable Secure Product Authentication, Tamper Detection, and Traceability

Identiv announced the expansion of its ID-Safe product family, a portfolio of advanced HF and NFC tags designed to support product authentication, tamper detection, and secure traceability across pharmaceutical, healthcare, retail, food and beverage, electronics, and smart packaging applications.

As companies work to address rising counterfeiting, diversion, and product fraud, there is growing demand for solutions that can verify product authenticity, confirm package integrity, and provide visibility across the product lifecycle.

Identiv's ID-Safe portfolio addresses these challenges by combining NFC-based product identity with advanced tamper detection and secure authentication. By embedding secure NFC technology directly into tags, ID-Safe transforms product labeling into a digital trust layer – enabling companies to confirm that a product is genuine, verify that it has not been opened or altered, and enable secure digital interaction using standard NFC-enabled smartphones or readers.

"Trust in physical products can't be assumed anymore – it has to be verified. ID-Safe brings together secure NFC-based identity, tamper detection, and tamper-proof design to enable companies to confirm authenticity and product integrity at any point in the lifecycle, anywhere those interactions occur," said Andreas Walsner, Global Vice President Sales, Identiv. "It allows organizations to detect interference, prevent fraud, and establish trusted product identity anywhere it matters – from manufacturing through distribution to the point of use – while supporting secure, scalable deployment across real-world operations."

The ID-Safe portfolio includes a range of NFC tag configurations designed to support diverse applications across pharmaceutical, healthcare, retail, food and beverage, electronics, and smart packaging environments. These include tamper-evident NFC labels that detect and record package opening events, as well as tamper-proof tags with destructible antennas that prevent removal, reuse or product refilling. Select configurations support encrypted authentication using high-security NFC chips, enabling protection against cloning and advanced counterfeiting.

Each ID-Safe tag is encoded with a unique identity and can be linked to cloud-based systems, creating a digital twin of the product. Throughout manufacturing, logistics, and distribution, stakeholders can scan the tag to confirm authenticity and verify that the product remains unopened. Once a package is opened or tampered with, the tag registers an irreversible state change – such as a broken antenna or altered electrical signal – clearly indicating that the product has been compromised.

The ID-Safe product family is designed to help organizations address critical product security challenges, including counterfeiting, gray market diversion, warranty and returns abuse, and product refilling and resale fraud. By making product authenticity and integrity verifiable in real time, ID-Safe helps protect brand value, improve recall and compliance processes, and strengthen trust across the supply chain and with end users.

The products are already deployed in an award-winning NFC-based anti-counterfeiting smart packaging solution for luxury wine producers and collectors, developed in collaboration with ZATAP and Genuine-Analytics.

The ID-Safe portfolio includes multiple configurations with options for different chip types, memory capacities, and form factors.

Tageos Launches World's First FlexIC-based RFID Product Lines Powered by Pragmatic Semiconductor Technolog

Tageos announced the expansion of their long-term strategic partnership with the launch of Tageos' latest product portfolio based on Pragmatic's flexible and sustainable NFC Connect product line. The new Tageos EOS Lite and EOS Zero Lite lines deliver innovative antenna designs with slim, low-carbon footprints, supporting growing demand for item-level intelligence and new market opportunities to connect our physical and digital worlds.

The EOS-932 Zero Lite PR1301 is a cost-effective, sustainable paper-based NFC inlay designed for seamless integration into paper packaging and labels. It enables a wide variety of mass market applications such as consumer engagement and product authentication where sustainability, form factor, and digital connectivity are critical. Combining the ultra-thin Pragmatic NFC Connect chip with a paper-based inlay antenna supports smooth integration to enable high-volume manufacturing, cost-effective deployment, and improved paper recyclability across retail packaging and labels.

Developed at the Tageos Innovation Center of Excellence (ICoE), the new products harness the company's expertise in sustainable RFID inlays and tags and are the first to feature Pragmatic's NFC Connect PR1301 chip. With its ultra-thin, flexible design, the chip is imperceptible to the touch, allowing for discreet integration into curved surfaces, on packaging or within products, to unlock mass market item-level intelligence in areas traditionally constrained by cost, supply chain, and sustainability challenges.

By enabling scalable digital product identity and consumer smartphone interaction, the new inlay supports emerging physical-digital integration, recycling in modern retail supply chains, and the digitization of the customer journey. Brands and retailers can now embed discreet NFC functionality into packaging without altering its appearance, reduce their overall carbon footprint, and transform products into powerful marketing channels for consumer engagement, product authentication, and brand protection. 

Lockheed Martin Launches GPS III Satellite, Paving the Way for Next-Generation GPS IIIF Spacecraft

Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and the U.S. Space Force strengthened the Global Positioning System (GPS) constellation to its highest level ever achieved with the launch of GPS III Space Vehicle 10 (SV10), the final satellite in the GPS III series.

SV10 adds essential resiliency and accuracy enhancements to the GPS constellation, including an optical crosslink demonstration payload. With this payload, GPS III SV10 will demonstrate optical communication capabilities that will play a crucial role in the future strength of the constellation. The optical crosslinks allow GPS satellites to be able to directly communicate with each other in space, increasing on-orbit resiliency.

The GPS III SV10 launch marks the fourth consecutive GPS launch on an accelerated schedule, demonstrating Lockheed Martin's rapid delivery of on‑orbit capabilities to warfighters.

GPS III SV10 launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 2:53 a.m. Eastern time. It secured signal acquisition soon after and is currently managed at Lockheed Martin's Denver Launch & Checkout Operations Center pending formal acceptance into the GPS operational control network.

This spacecraft paves the way for the advanced GPS IIIF generation, which will bring even stronger anti-jamming capabilities for warfighters and improvements for its six billion civilian users. GPS III satellites deliver critical advancements over legacy spacecraft, including three‑times greater accuracy, eight‑times stronger anti‑jamming capability, and secure M‑Code signals for warfighters worldwide.

For military users, these improvements provide dependable positioning, navigation, and timing in contested or hostile environments. For civilian users, GPS III enhances everyday smartphone navigation, speeds up emergency response location, and supplies more precise timing for financial markets and telecommunications networks.

"The final GPS III deployment is an important milestone as we continue strengthening the GPS constellation," said Fang Qian, vice president of GPS at Lockheed Martin. "By launching SV10 into orbit, we're not only adding to the resiliency of today's GPS capabilities – we're opening the door to the next generation of GPS IIIF satellites that will provide greater resiliency and serve as the backbone of the GPS constellation for years to come."

In addition to the crosslink demo, the satellite is also equipped with a demonstration Digital Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard clock, an advanced atomic clock that will provide reliable and precise time-keeping capabilities.

With GPS III SV10 in orbit, Lockheed Martin is now focused on production of GPS IIIF satellites. Deploying these next‑generation spacecraft is essential for preserving reliable global coverage, and the IIIF block will add a new suite of capabilities that further harden the constellation's resilience.

Among the upgrades, GPS IIIF will feature Regional Military Protection, delivering more than a 60‑fold boost in anti‑jamming performance for warfighters. This dramatic increase in resistance to hostile interference helps U.S. forces stay ahead of evolving electronic warfare threats.

Lockheed Martin is actively producing GPS IIIF spacecraft at its Denver, Colorado facility. The company is integrating emerging technology, including augmented reality and digital twins, to accelerate GPS satellite production. Lockheed Martin is currently under contract to build 12 GPS IIIF satellites, demonstrating the company's long-term commitment to a resilient and robust navigation infrastructure.

Today, more than 30 GPS satellites operate in orbit, delivering crucial positioning, navigation and timing services to warfighters, civilians and commercial users. Overall, GPS remains the world's most trusted space-based navigation system, serving billions of people.

Why Michelin Tires Contain Hidden RFID Tags

Michelin has been embedding small RFID tags in its tires for years, but not to track drivers. The chips are designed to make it easier to identify and manage tires throughout their entire lifespan.

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. In this case, the tags are passive, meaning they have no battery and do not transmit signals on their own. They cannot provide live location data like GPS. Instead, they only respond when scanned at close range.

For Michelin, the technology offers several advantages. In factories, tires can be sorted automatically and routed to the correct destination. At dealerships, RFID helps with inventory management and ensures the right tire is matched to the right vehicle. It also simplifies recalls, since specific tire batches can be identified quickly.

RFID is also useful when a tire reaches the end of its service life. Recycling centers and retread facilities can instantly access tire information to determine whether it should be reused, retreaded, or recycled. This saves time and improves efficiency.

Michelin first introduced the system on commercial and truck tires, but the company is now expanding it to consumer products as well. As a result, tires are becoming part of a broader digital ecosystem focused on smarter maintenance, safety, and logistics.

Honeywell is selling its barcode scanner business

Honeywell has agreed to sell its Productivity Solutions and Services unit to Brady Corporation in an all-cash deal worth $1.4 billion. The business makes mobile computers, barcode scanners, printers, and workflow tools used in warehouses, logistics centers, and industrial operations.  

The sale is part of Honeywell’s broader restructuring strategy as it narrows its focus to core businesses such as aerospace, automation, and advanced materials. The company has been trimming non-core assets ahead of a planned breakup into more specialized standalone businesses.  

For Brady, the acquisition is transformative. The company, known for labels, safety products, and industrial identification systems, gains a much larger presence in warehouse technology and data-capture hardware. Brady expects the deal to boost adjusted earnings by double digits within the first year after closing.  

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to customary approvals.  

An inside look into Auburn’s RFID Lab

“We’re doing innovation,” said Justin Patton, executive director of Auburn’s world-renowned RFID Lab. Then he stops himself. “A better word, really, is transformation.”

He makes a good point: RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) has existed for decades. Allied forces used the technology in WWII to identify whether incoming airplanes were friends or foes. But the lab’s student workers, alongside its faculty and staff, are transforming and improving the ways in which tracking technology is used in industries like retail and aviation.

You likely interact with RFID all the time, whether you know it or not. If you’ve been to the grocery store, tracked your pet, used an E-Z pass on a toll road or competed in a race, you’ve encountered the technology.

RFID uses radio frequency waves to wirelessly transfer data and identify and track “tags” attached to objects.

It’s made major waves in the retail industry by streamlining inventory tracking, preventing theft and providing insight into potential trends. A store associate armed with a “reader” can track hundreds of tagged products in seconds from yards away, as well as provide data on which products are most often shoplifted.

But RFID’s influence goes way beyond retail. Farmers use RFID-equipped ear tags to keep an eye on their cattle. Airlines use it for everything from refreshment-cart maintenance to baggage tracking. Medical professionals use it to manage medication inventories.
A luggage tag is attached to a piece of luggage

The RFID Lab conducts research in four major industries with four major partners: Delta, UPS, McDonald’s and Walmart.

Delta’s $6.2 million gift to Auburn in 2017 not only funded the university’s aviation building, it also provided research funding for the RFID Lab. Since then, student researchers have polished and refined tag capabilities that allow flight attendants to track a plane’s food and beverage inventory, and airline workers to track checked luggage.

And then there’s UPS. “Everyone wants to know where their packages are,” according to Patton. “This makes that information faster and more accurate.”

The lab’s partnership with McDonald’s helps the restaurant chain improve their operational flow while enhancing ingredient traceability and visibility. The Food Safety Modernization Act requires U.S. food manufacturers to digitally track their products for recalls and food safety, and RFID is a significant enabler.

The food space is new ground for the RFID team, but Patton is excited about the potential for more supply chain transformation, not to mention the sustainability benefits the research will bring.

RFID tags make ingredients traceable, eliminating the need to oversaturate the supply chain with food products that will either rot on store shelves or get thrown away at home.

In April, the lab announced a major partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico to promote RFID and to enhance collaboration in research, education and workforce development.

Meanwhile, Switzerland-based semiconductor manufacturer EM Microelectronic joined the lab’s advisory board. This relationship will open up new research opportunities, particularly in the Bluetooth space.

Patton, who was a student himself when the lab started at Arkansas in 2005, expects a lot from the students who work in the lab, and they’re often rewarded in the end. Graduating students are frequently hired by the lab’s corporate partners.

Zebra Technologies and Aiva Health Announce Partnership to Power Hands-Free Nurse Workflows

Zebra Technologies Corporation announced a partnership to support hands-free nurse workflows using Aiva's AI-powered Aiva Nurse Assistant on Zebra healthcare devices, including the HC20/HC50 mobile computers and Zebra's new WS101-H wearable badge.

Through this collaboration, healthcare organizations can equip nurses with a voice-first assistant that works seamlessly with Zebra's purpose-built devices, enabling clinicians to complete routine tasks, retrieve information, and communicate – all without breaking focus on patient care. This is a real-world example of Zebra's visionary framework, Orchestrated Care which is designed to help healthcare organizations provide intelligent visibility, empower teams and optimize operations. 

This approach is powered by Zebra's extensive portfolio of healthcare technology, including mobile computers, scanners, printers, touchscreen displays, RFID, real-time location solutions and software, supported by a robust ecosystem of implementation and technology partners like Aiva.

Aiva Nurse Assistant is an ambient, voice-powered AI assistant built specifically for hospital environments. Nurses have charted millions of rows with Aiva, drastically reducing documentation time, improving patient experience scores and cutting incidental overtime costs.  It allows nurses to use natural voice commands to perform common tasks such as:

When paired with Zebra's HC20/HC50 mobile computers, nurses can use Aiva alongside familiar mobile workflows. With Zebra's new WS101-H badge, Aiva enables truly hands-free interactions, allowing nurses to speak naturally without reaching for a device, even while wearing gloves or performing clinical procedures.

The partnership reflects a shared vision to modernize frontline healthcare workflows through intuitive, wearable, and voice-enabled technology. As hospitals continue to face staffing shortages and rising complexity, hands-free solutions like Aiva Nurse Assistant on Zebra devices offer a scalable way to support nurses without adding friction.

KORE and Kigen to Deliver Next-Generation SGP.32 IoT Connectivity for Global Deployments

KORE Group Holdings announced a new portfolio of SGP.32-compliant connectivity solutions in partnership with Kigen, a global leader in eSIM and remote SIM provisioning - with commercial availability planned for later in 2026.

Purpose-built for IoT and based on the GSMA's next-generation eSIM standard, KORE's SGP.32 solutions support a wide range of devices, from high-power gateways to battery-powered sensors, and include a range of connectivity profiles tailored to different operational needs, such as streamlined roaming, resilient multi-network approaches and local connectivity with intelligent failover and recovery - enabling organizations to deploy and manage connected devices globally, while adapting connectivity over time.

Whether devices are stationary or on the move, KORE's SGP.32 solutions give customers the ability to remotely provision, switch and optimize connectivity without costly truck rolls - unlocking efficiency, resiliency and global reach. Built to support the future of IoT, KORE's approach ensures interoperability, carrier-grade integrations and the intelligence needed to manage device fleets at scale, while advancing the company's broader goal to deliver programmable connectivity through a unified eSIM-based platform.

"Enterprise customers don't just need standards - they need a proven way to operationalize them at scale," said Ron Totton, President and CEO of KORE. "With SGP.32, success depends on deep carrier relationships, global infrastructure and the ability to manage complexity across the full device lifecycle. That's where KORE delivers - helping customers turn new standards into real-world, scalable deployments." Kigen is contributing their secure, GSMA-certified SGP.32 eSIM and eIM technology to the solution to underpin its enterprise-grade architecture.

"SGP.32 is a defining milestone for the industry because it removes the complexity that has long held back scale for enterprise IoT – making connectivity truly flexible, resilient, and secure by design," said Vincent Korstanje, CEO at Kigen. "By building on Kigen's GSMA-certified eSIM and eIM, KORE is establishing a trusted foundation that enables enterprises to deploy, manage, and scale next-generation connectivity with confidence."

KORE's SGP.32 solution provides customers with a more adaptive approach to global IoT connectivity, supporting evolving regulatory requirements, network conditions and deployment needs. This provides enterprises with the ability to localize connectivity, maintain uptime and manage changes remotely across long device lifecycles.

Socket Mobile Expands Shopify Compatibility with Support for SocketScan S721 and S741 Barcode Scanners

Socket Mobile announced that the Shopify platform, beginning with version 11.0.0, now supports the SocketScan S721 and newly released SocketScan S741 barcode scanners. This update enables Shopify merchants to take advantage of Socket Mobile's latest Bluetooth Low Energy scanning technology for reliable, high-performance data capture across a wide range of business applications.

With Shopify's adoption of Socket Mobile's latest CaptureSDK, merchants can now seamlessly integrate the S721 and S741 into their operations, supporting use cases such as retail point-of-sale, inventory management, and ID verification. Both scanners are designed to deliver fast, accurate performance while maintaining strong wireless connectivity and extended battery life.

The SocketScan S721 provides dependable, everyday scanning performance with the ability to capture 1D and 2D barcodes across a wide range of sizes and formats. Its extended scanning range and efficient Bluetooth LE connectivity make it well suited for retail counters, warehouses, and mobile work environments.

The newly introduced SocketScan S741 expands on these capabilities with enhanced performance for more demanding applications. It is optimized to read small, dense, and damaged barcodes, while also supporting OCR formats used in passports and driver's licenses. This makes it particularly valuable for workflows that require age verification and identity validation in addition to traditional barcode scanning.

"Expanding support within the Shopify ecosystem is an important step for our customers and partners," said Dave Holmes, Chief Business Officer at Socket Mobile. "With the addition of the S721 and S741, Shopify merchants can take advantage of our latest Bluetooth Low Energy scanning technology to improve reliability, maintain consistent wireless performance throughout the day, and support a broader range of scanning applications, including ID verification. We remain focused on supporting our application partners with new innovations that enhance performance and deliver practical value for their users."

Like all Socket Mobile data capture devices, the S721 and S741 are fully compatible with the latest version of Socket Mobile's CaptureSDK. Over a thousand business applications already support CaptureSDK, enabling plug-and-play data capture within their operations. Developers who integrate CaptureSDK gain consistent, high-performance scanning across all Socket Mobile products while giving their users the flexibility to choose the device that best suits their needs.

Socket Mobile continues to work closely with its application partners to ensure compatibility with the latest devices and technologies, helping businesses deploy reliable data capture solutions that support their evolving operational needs.

Russia Drops Fake Money With QR Codes

Russian forces have reportedly begun dropping fake Ukrainian banknotes equipped with QR codes in border regions of northern Ukraine, according to local officials.

The counterfeit bills, designed to resemble real hryvnia, contain messages urging civilians to share coordinates of potential targets in exchange for money. The QR codes reportedly link to hostile or propaganda-related online resources.  

Officials in the Sumy region said the fake currency was distributed by drones and described it as a deliberate provocation aimed at manipulating residents. Authorities warned people not to scan the codes and to report any such items immediately.  

Similar incidents were reported in the neighboring Chernihiv region, where local officials also found leaflet-style banknotes with embedded QR codes. Residents were advised to avoid handling them due to potential security risks.  

Ukrainian security services have previously documented cases of individuals being recruited—sometimes for money—to provide targeting information for Russian strikes, highlighting the broader context behind such tactics.  

Overall, authorities view the distribution of these fake banknotes as part of ongoing psychological and information warfare efforts targeting civilians in frontline and border areas.

Texas Children’s Hospital pharmacies achieve $14 million in yearly savings through RFID technology

Texas Children’s Hospital has dramatically improved its pharmacy operations by adopting RFID-based inventory tracking, leading to roughly $14 million in annual savings.

Before implementing the system, the hospital struggled with limited visibility into its medication inventory. Manual processes made it difficult to track where drugs were, whether they were still in stock, or if they had expired. As a result, the organization was losing tens of millions of dollars each year due to waste, overstocking and inefficiencies. 

To address this, the hospital introduced an RFID-enabled solution that provides real-time insight into every tagged medication. This allows pharmacy teams to instantly see inventory levels, locations and expiration dates, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual counts and reducing human error.  

The system also streamlines workflows. Tasks that once required multiple manual steps—such as logging and verifying medications—have been simplified, saving staff time and improving accuracy. With better tracking, the hospital can prevent unnecessary purchases, reduce expired drugs and quickly identify discrepancies or potential diversion.  

Beyond cost savings, the technology has improved overall efficiency and patient care. Staff spend less time managing inventory and more time focusing on clinical work, while the organization benefits from tighter financial control and more reliable medication availability.

Overall, by replacing manual processes with automated, real-time tracking, Texas Children’s Hospital has transformed its pharmacy from a major cost center into a more efficient and financially sustainable operation.

Pentagon Eyes Canceling ‘Troubled’ GPS Ground System

The U.S. Department of Defense is considering canceling a long-delayed program designed to modernize the ground control system for GPS satellites, after years of technical issues and rising costs.  

The program—known as the Next-Generation Operational Control Segment (OCX)—was intended to manage newer GPS satellites and unlock advanced capabilities such as improved accuracy, cybersecurity, and resistance to jamming. However, recent testing uncovered significant software problems that could take much longer than expected to fix.  

After more than 15 years in development, the project has already experienced repeated delays and cost overruns, with its budget growing from about $3.7 billion to nearly $8 billion. These ongoing challenges have led officials to reassess whether continuing the program is worthwhile.  

As an alternative, the U.S. Space Force is considering upgrading the existing ground system—called the Architecture Evolution Plan (AEP)—which is already operational and currently manages the GPS satellite network. If OCX is canceled, further improvements would be made to AEP to support newer satellites and signals.  

Despite the uncertainty, officials say GPS services themselves would not be disrupted, since the current system remains functional. However, without OCX, the military may not be able to fully take advantage of the latest GPS III satellites, which offer better accuracy and stronger anti-jamming features.  

Responsibility for the program’s struggles has been attributed to a mix of contractor performance issues, technical complexity, and government management shortcomings. A final decision on whether to cancel the program will be made by the Pentagon’s acquisition leadership.  

‘Lighthouses in space’: Chinese jam‑proof satellite network

Chinese scientists have developed a new satellite navigation system designed to work even when traditional GPS signals are unavailable or disrupted. The system uses a network of 11 satellites that act like “lighthouses in space,” guiding users with beams of coded light instead of radio signals.  

Unlike GPS or China’s BeiDou system, which rely on radio waves that can be jammed or interfered with, this new approach uses optical signals. Each satellite emits a focused beam of light carrying encoded information, which receivers on Earth can detect and use—along with the satellites’ known positions—to calculate precise location data.  

Because light travels in straight, narrow beams, it is far more difficult to disrupt than radio signals. This makes the system especially useful in environments where electronic interference is common, such as military operations or conflict zones.  

The technology is also expected to improve navigation accuracy compared to existing alternatives like star-based systems, which rely on faint celestial objects and offer limited precision.  

Researchers say the system could support a wide range of applications, including drones, self-driving vehicles, and even deep-space missions. By providing a reliable backup—or complement—to GPS, it could help fill critical gaps in global navigation infrastructure.  

Overall, the project reflects a broader push to develop more resilient and precise positioning technologies, especially in situations where traditional satellite navigation systems fall short.  

RFID tech targets US$94B loss in retail industry

A new report from Avery Dennison highlights the growing financial and operational impact of food waste across the global retail supply chain, with meat emerging as one of the biggest problem areas. The study estimates that food waste could cost the industry around $540 billion annually by 2026, with meat alone accounting for roughly $94 billion of that total. 

A major reason for these losses is a lack of visibility. Many businesses struggle to track where and why waste occurs, especially across complex supply chains. Over 60% of companies report limited insight into waste points, making it difficult to manage inventory effectively or respond to demand fluctuations.  

Meat is particularly challenging because it is both highly perishable and expensive. Retailers often overstock to avoid shortages, but inaccurate demand forecasting—worsened by inflation and shifting consumer behavior—leads to large volumes being discarded.  

To tackle this issue, the report emphasizes the role of technologies like RFID (radio-frequency identification). By giving each product a digital identity, RFID enables real-time tracking of items throughout the supply chain. This improves inventory accuracy, helps monitor freshness and expiry dates, and allows retailers to better match supply with actual demand.  

In addition, smart packaging and digital labeling can extend shelf life and improve traceability, giving retailers more control over stock rotation and pricing decisions. These tools help reduce spoilage while also improving efficiency and profitability.  

Overall, the report reframes food waste—especially in meat—not just as a sustainability issue, but as a major business opportunity. By adopting data-driven technologies and improving supply chain visibility, retailers can significantly cut losses, increase margins, and build more resilient food systems.  

Clip now offers Tap to Pay on iPhone for merchants to accept contactless payments

Clip, Mexico's leading digital commerce platform, now enables its customers to seamlessly and securely accept in-person contactless payments with Tap to Pay on iPhone. Tap to Pay on iPhone allows merchants to accept all forms of contactless payment, including contactless credit and debit card payments, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets using only their iPhone and the Clip app, without the need to invest in a physical terminal, to start transacting.

Tap to Pay on iPhone is available starting March 24, with the Clip app, and allows merchants to accept contactless payments with an iPhone XS or later running the latest version of iOS. By not requiring extra hardware, all types of businesses can use an iPhone to accept payments anywhere they make sales.

In Mexico, millions of businesses operate with tight schedules, constant mobility, and the need to accept payments immediately, without friction. With Tap to Pay on iPhone, at checkout, merchants can simply prompt the customer to hold their contactless payment near the merchant's iPhone, and the payment will be securely completed using NFC technology.

"By enabling Tap to Pay on iPhone in the Clip app, we reinforce our commitment to the democratization of digital payments and financial inclusion. This allows us to make technological solutions available to all businesses in Mexico, significantly contributing to the country's economic development, aligned with our mission to make ideas happen," stated Adolfo Babatz, CEO and Founder of Clip.

Key Benefits:

    All you need is your iPhone: Accept contactless payments from your iPhone with the Clip app.
    Ease and accessibility: Unlock contactless payment acceptance within minutes directly from the Clip app.
    Security and trust: Apple's Tap to Pay on iPhone technology uses the built-in security and privacy features of iPhone to help protect your business and customer data. Apple doesn't store card numbers or transaction information on the device or on Apple servers, so merchants and customers can rest assured that their data stays theirs.[1]
    Send digital receipts: Allows sending digital receipts via SMS or email.

GS1 Connect 2026 Agenda Offers Supply Chain Innovation Best Practices Across Foodservice, Grocery, Healthcare and Retail Industries

GS1 Connect 2026, the annual conference and exhibit hosted by GS1 US, will bring together more than 100 speakers from leading brands, retailers, foodservice operators and distributors, healthcare companies and solution providers to share how GS1 Standards are driving supply chain visibility, innovation and business growth. Participating companies include Amazon, Carhartt, Hanes, Mars, Nestle, Unilever, Walmart, and many more. The three-day event will take place June 9-11, 2026, at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. To view the agenda and register, visit www.connect.gs1us.org.

GS1 Connect 2026 will feature more than 50 sessions across five tracks—foodservice, grocery, healthcare, retail, and standards & technology—covering timely topics such as artificial intelligence (AI); data quality; supply chain visibility; digital commerce; sustainability; traceability; two-dimensional (2D) barcodes and radio frequency identification (RFID); regulated healthcare and food; omnichannel and e-commerce; and more. Attendees will gain practical insights on improving operational efficiency, address regulatory requirements and unlock value for consumers and trading partners.

The conference includes a keynote address from bestselling author Natalie Nixon, PhD, who will explore how human creativity and emerging technologies intersect to help leaders and teams navigate change, adapt to uncertainty and build more future-ready organizations in her session "The New 'I' in AI: Unleashing Human Creativity as Your Competitive Advantage in the Imagination Era."

Additional highlights include:

    In the Keynote Panel, "Big Ideas Shaping the Future of Business," Carpenter will moderate a candid executive exchange on the forces reshaping today's marketplace—spanning consumer health, accelerated AI adoption, regulatory change, supply chain innovation, evolving shopper behavior and workforce transformation—with top industry executives sharing real–world perspectives on the strategic priorities and challenges leaders are navigating now.
    An immersive exhibit, "Beyond the Barcode: Advanced Data Carriers in Action," will explore how next-generation data carriers like 2D barcodes enhance traceability, supply chain automation, brand protection and consumer engagement. Attendees will experience hands-on demos from sponsors such as Domino, Loftware and TSC.
    A session with the RAIN Alliance will offer a strategic overview of the initiatives, standards and collaborations accelerating RAIN RFID adoption and interoperability.
    A Standards & Technology track will feature solution provider case studies and customer success stories about solving business challenges and improving operations.
    Trading Partner Roundtable sessions will drive efficiency in shared supply chains with hosts from Aramark, CKE Restaurants, Dot Foods, General Mills, Inc., Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products, Gordon Food Service, The Hershey Company, Hormel Foods, Mars, McLane Company, Inc., PepsiCo, Performance Food Group, Tyson Foods and Walmart Stores, Inc.
    In How to Do Business With… sessions, companies will share business process requirements and company-specific initiative updates to inform their trading partners.

GS1 Connect is sponsored by Antares Vision Group, Avery Dennison, Markem-Imjae, Multi-Color Corporation, NIQ Brandbank, OneTeg, PLM TrustLink, RIVIR by SPINS IX-ONE, Salsify, SATO, Share-ify and Syndigo.

SuperCom Wins $17 Million National Electronic Monitoring Contract in Sweden

SuperCom has been awarded a new national electronic monitoring (EM) contract by Sweden's Prison and Probation Service. The win marks SuperCom's fourth contract win in the country since its entry. Under the contract, SuperCom will deploy its PureSecurity Electronic Monitoring (EM) Suite across a broad range of public safety programs, including GPS tracking of offenders, home detention monitoring, and indoor facility monitoring. The contract also provides an opportunity for additional programs of substantial size, such as alcohol monitoring, to be added in the near future.

Sweden has been a pioneer in electronic monitoring for public safety in Europe, with initial probation programs dating back to 1994. The Swedish Prison and Probation Service is facing a period of historic expansion, and with it, expected growth in its electronic monitoring programs. The nationwide contract is designed to cover all prison and probation EM offender programs within the country, reflecting 6x expected growth relative to the project SuperCom launched with the same customer in 2019. Prior to SuperCom's entry, the previous incumbent EM provider had delivered services in Sweden for approximately 25 years.

The award was won through a formal bid process in which five companies participated, including the previous long-term incumbent and SuperCom, the current EM provider for the Swedish Prison and Probation Service. The process took over one year and included technology evaluations by the contracting authority. Under the terms of the award, the contract value, based on the government's internal budgeting, is approximately USD $17 million, spread over a term of up to nine years. Opportunities exist to grow the contract value meaningfully if additional programs are added. Revenues recognized by SuperCom will depend on actual usage levels, which can be above or below the estimated amounts. This award will go through the customary standstill waiting period before contract signing is approved and the project is launched. SuperCom management expects to provide further information on such in future communications.

SuperCom's PureSecurity Suite is a best-of-breed electronic monitoring platform offering advanced GPS tracking, anti-tamper mechanisms, secure communications, and energy-efficient device architecture designed to maximize battery life and operational uptime. The system supports correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies with reliable, scalable supervision tools that enhance public safety and offender compliance.

Bybit has launched Yape QR payments in Bolivia

Bybit, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has launched Yape QR payments on Bybit Pay in Bolivia, enabling users to make real-world crypto payments online and at local merchants through one of the most popular QR-based payment apps in the country.

Yape QR is already the go-to payment method for millions of Bolivians making everyday purchases. The integration lets Bolivia-based users spend crypto quickly and securely using Yape QR, connecting digital assets with everyday spending. Users scan a QR code just as they normally would — the crypto conversion happens in the background. Bybit Pay supports seamless QR transactions designed to simplify crypto payments while maintaining security and efficiency.

To mark the launch, Bybit Pay is offering promotional rewards for Bolivia users. New users are eligible to get a 50 percent discount coupon for their first Yape QR payment, while existing users can receive cashback ranging from 2 to 10 percent on every Yape QR transaction, depending on applicable terms.

Yape is one of the most widely used digital wallets in Peru, with more than 15 million active users nationwide. Since entering Bolivia in 2023, the platform has grown quickly to more than 3 million users and a large network of affiliated merchants, making it one of the leading mobile payment apps in the country. Together, Yape serves more than 18 million users across both markets. The company plans to continue expanding in Bolivia, with a long-term goal of reaching around half of the country's population in the coming years.

The rollout is part of Bybit's effort to expand practical crypto payment solutions across Latin America, where demand for accessible and real-world digital asset use continues to grow. By enabling Yape QR payments, Bybit Pay aligns with established local payment habits while extending the utility of cryptocurrencies beyond trading.

Bybit Pay is part of Bybit's broader ecosystem for secure, user-friendly crypto transactions for everyday use, reinforcing the company's commitment to global adoption and localized payment innovation across emerging markets.

How Chainway Helps Improve RFID Linen Management at Marriott

Managing large volumes of linens such as sheets, towels, and pillowcases is a complex task for hotel chains. At a company like Marriott International, thousands of items constantly move between hotels, laundry facilities, and storage locations. Traditional methods, such as manual counting and record-keeping, are time-consuming and often lead to errors or lost items.

To improve this process, a solution based on RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology was introduced. Each piece of linen is equipped with a small RFID tag embedded in the fabric. Using handheld RFID scanners and management software, hotel staff can quickly track and identify each item.

As linens move through different stages—collection, washing, sorting, and redistribution—the RFID tags are automatically scanned. The data is then sent to a central system that records the location and status of every item. This allows staff to monitor linen inventory and movement in real time.

The system relies on RFID hardware from Chainway, including mobile readers that can scan large quantities of tagged textiles quickly and accurately.

Implementing RFID for linen management provides several advantages:
    •    Faster inventory checks: Thousands of items can be counted within seconds.
    •    Reduced losses: Each linen item can be tracked throughout its lifecycle.
    •    Improved efficiency: Staff spend less time on manual counting and paperwork.
    •    Lifecycle monitoring: The system can track how many times a linen item has been washed and when it should be replaced.

By adopting RFID technology for linen management, Marriott can streamline operations and gain better visibility over its inventory. Automated tracking reduces losses, improves efficiency, and helps ensure that hotels always have the necessary linens available for guests.

TapGoods' Easy RFID Pro Helps Automate Rental Inventory Execution

TapGoods announced a strategic integration with Easy RFID Pro, an RFID inventory execution platform designed to automate warehouse workflows, reduce shrinkage, and improve inventory accuracy.

The integration connects TapGoods’ rental management system with Easy RFID Pro’s RFID scanning technology, enabling rental companies to validate inventory in bulk, reduce shrinkage, and eliminate manual reconciliation during check-out and return.

The integration supports both mobile RFID scanning and fixed reader deployments, giving rental businesses flexibility in how they automate warehouse workflows based on operational scale and facility layout.

Unlike traditional barcoding systems that require line-of-sight and individual scans, RFID allows warehouse teams to validate hundreds of items in seconds—without handling each item individually—dramatically improving speed, accuracy, and labor efficiency.

The TapGoods + Easy RFID Pro integration is now available to rental businesses looking to modernize warehouse workflows and improve inventory visibility.

The Rise of NFC Relay Malware on Mobile Devices

Cybersecurity researchers are warning about a growing threat known as NFC relay malware, which targets mobile devices and contactless payment systems. This type of malware exploits the Near Field Communication (NFC) technology used in many smartphones for tap-to-pay transactions. Once installed, it can secretly capture payment information and allow criminals to carry out fraudulent purchases.  

According to researchers, hundreds of malicious Android applications have already been identified using this technique. Since 2024, more than 760 apps have been discovered that abuse NFC and the Android feature called Host Card Emulation (HCE), which normally allows a phone to behave like a contactless payment card.  

These malicious apps are usually disguised as legitimate banking or government services. Victims may be tricked into downloading them from unofficial sources and asked to set them as the device’s default payment app. Once active, the malware quietly runs in the background and intercepts payment data when the user taps their phone or card for a transaction.  

The stolen data is then sent to attacker-controlled servers or messaging platforms such as Telegram. Criminals can relay this information in real time to another device, which imitates the victim’s card at a payment terminal and completes fraudulent purchases without the victim being present.  

Researchers say the scale and organization behind these campaigns are growing quickly. The infrastructure supporting them includes dozens of command-and-control servers and communication channels used to coordinate attacks and collect stolen information.  

Security experts advise users to download apps only from official app stores, carefully review permission requests, and be cautious if an application asks to change the phone’s default payment settings. Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this emerging mobile payment threat.  

Socket Mobile Announces Industrial Scanning Solutions for iPhone 17e

Socket Mobile announced that its rugged and industrial scanning solutions — including the XtremeScan, DuraSled, and DuraScan Terminal families — are compatible with Apple's newly released iPhone 17e.

Building on the strong adoption of the iPhone 16e in industrial and commercial environments, the new iPhone 17e introduces enhanced durability and performance, making it well suited for demanding mobile operations. Combined with Socket Mobile's industrial-grade scanning solutions, businesses can deploy powerful and reliable iOS-based data capture systems across industries such as warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, retail, field service, and transportation.

Socket Mobile's XtremeScan, DuraSled, and DuraScan Terminal product families extend the capabilities of the iPhone 17e by integrating high-performance 1D/2D barcode scanning into rugged mobile solutions. XtremeScan delivers long-range scanning with extreme protection against water, dust, and drops for the harshest industrial environments. DuraSled and DuraScan Terminal solutions transform the iPhone into durable, handheld scanning tools with protective case designs and integrated data capture capabilities, enabling fast and reliable barcode scanning that fits easily in your pocket.

Socket Mobile's scanning solutions are fully compatible with applications that use Socket Mobile's CaptureSDK, allowing existing solutions to support the new iPhone 17e with minimal effort. Developers who have already integrated CaptureSDK can evaluate Socket Mobile scanners immediately, while application providers not yet supporting Socket Mobile's data capture devices can quickly enable reliable and consistent scanning performance within their apps.

CaptureSDK provides developers with a unified framework for integrating Socket Mobile's expansive portfolio of data capture devices, enabling applications to capture barcode data efficiently in real-world environments. CaptureSDK-enabled apps allow end users to easily interchange Socket Mobile scanners, ensuring organizations can select the best device for their workflow while maintaining compatibility across their solutions.

Telit Cinterion Expands Next-Generation GNSS Portfolio with New Dual-Band Modules for Scalable IoT Positioning

Telit Cinterion, an end-to-end IoT solutions enabler, announced an expansion of its next-generation GNSS portfolio. The company has added two new dual-band positioning modules: the ultracompact SE873K5-D and the high-end SE869eK5-DRK.

Built on the latest AG3335 chipset series from long-time partner Airoha, the new modules advance Telit Cinterion's GNSS roadmap. They support space- and power-constrained IoT devices and use cases that require continuous, ultraprecise positioning.

The SE873K5-D and SE869eK5-DRK provide a scalable path to adopt dual-band L1 + L5 GNSS. Device manufacturers can add advanced correction technologies and resilient positioning architectures without redesigning hardware.

When combined with Telit Cinterion cellular connectivity solutions, the modules support the injection of RTCM corrections worldwide. This feature enables higher accuracy across connected IoT deployments.

For more information on SE873K5-D, visit https://www.telit.com/devices/se873k5-d/.
For more information on SE869eK5-DRK, visit https://www.telit.com/devices/se869ek5-drk/.

SE873K5-D: Dual-Band GNSS for Ultracompact, Battery-Powered Designs
The SE873K5-D expands the established SE873K5 family with a dual-band L1 + L5 variant. It is designed for size- and power-constrained applications.

This new module maintains the same 7 x 7 mm footprint and pin-to-pin compatibility as the single-frequency SE873K5. OEMs can scale performance without changing hardware designs.

The SE873K5-D supports multiconstellation GNSS across the L1 and L5 bands. Compared to single-frequency solutions, it improves accuracy and robustness against interference and multipath effects.

With DGNSS support via RTCM corrections, the module enables submeter accuracy. It is ideal for myriad use cases, from wearables to fleet management.

Two power supply variants enable designers to optimize for either minimal size or ultralow power consumption in battery-operated devices. Multiple configurable usage profiles, such as tracking and drone modes, provide added flexibility across IoT verticals.

SE869eK5-DRK: Continuous, Ultraprecise Positioning with RTK and Dead Reckoning
The SE869eK5-DRK is the next evolution of Telit Cinterion's high-end GNSS offering. Based on the upper tier of the AG3335 chipset family, this module builds on the previously announced SE869eK5-DR. It adds support for RTK positioning with untethered dead reckoning (UDR).

This powerful combination enables uninterrupted, centimeter-level positioning. It maintains performance even when GNSS signals are degraded or unavailable due to interference or signal blockage.

The SE869eK5-DRK has an embedded inertial measurement unit (IMU). This feature helps maintain accurate position fixes in environments like tunnels and dense urban areas. The module supports DGNSS for submeter accuracy when RTK corrections are unavailable or when centimeter-level precision is not needed.

The SE869eK5-DRK is designed in an industry-standard 16 x 12.2 mm form factor. It introduces a proprietary extended pinout while remaining backward-compatible with existing designs. The added pins enable future-proof implementations and customization. OEMs can expand capabilities over time without redesigning their products.

County Jail Introduces RFID System to Track Inmates

The correctional facility in Plumas County, California is preparing to launch a new system that uses RFID technology to monitor inmate activity and improve record-keeping. The system is expected to become operational by the end of March and aims to simplify how staff collect and manage information about inmates’ locations and movements within the jail.  

Currently, many routine tasks—such as logging safety checks or tracking inmate movement—require radio communication, paper forms, and manual data entry. The new RFID solution will automate much of this work, potentially reducing staff time spent on these duties by around 25% or more.  

The system uses RFID wristbands worn by inmates along with tags installed throughout the facility. Correctional officers carry handheld mobile devices that can scan these tags and display information about inmates located in a specific area. When inmates move from one location to another, officers can update their status by scanning the wristbands and selecting the new location.  

The devices can also record additional information, including inmate observations, headcounts, recreation time, meals, and medical conditions. Photos and other records can be attached to an inmate’s profile and automatically synced with the jail’s central database.  

One major benefit of the system is better monitoring of inmates who require frequent observation, such as those in safety cells. Staff must perform checks at regular intervals, and the RFID system automatically records when these checks occur and alerts officers if one is missed or delayed.  

The technology can also track medication schedules and medical interactions, helping ensure inmates receive the correct treatment at the right time.  

The RFID program will cost about $60,000 over its first three years, including equipment, training, monitoring services, and cloud data storage. Officials expect that some of these expenses may be covered through Medi-Cal reimbursements related to inmate healthcare management.  

By implementing RFID technology, the jail hopes to streamline administrative work, improve accountability, and enhance inmate safety. The system will also make it easier for staff to generate reports and provide documentation during inspections or audits.  

Brazil’s regulator probes Apple over iPhone NFC limits

Brazil’s antitrust regulator is stepping up its scrutiny of Apple over how it controls NFC (near-field communication) access on the iPhone, particularly for contactless payments.

The country’s competition authority, CADE, has formally requested more information from Apple about its policies. The regulator wants details on fees, technical requirements, and agreements the company has with developers. Apple has been given a deadline of March 30 to respond.  

This investigation stems from complaints raised last year by Brazil’s central bank and banking groups. They argue that Apple may be unfairly limiting competitors by restricting access to the iPhone’s NFC technology—while giving preferential treatment to its own payment system.  

Apple, however, disputes these claims. The company says it is allowed to charge for access to its technology and points out that it only holds a relatively small share of Brazil’s smartphone market. It also maintains that third-party developers have been able to use NFC on iPhones since 2024 and that consumers already have plenty of payment options.  

A key part of the dispute involves PIX, Brazil’s hugely popular instant payment system. Although a contactless version of PIX has been introduced, Apple has not adopted it on the iPhone, reportedly viewing it as unnecessary given that most users still rely on QR codes.  

New RFID Label Achieves 100% Read Rate

A new RFID labeling solution is making it possible to reliably track liquid-filled pharmaceutical vials—an application that has historically been difficult for RFID technology.

The product, called LiquidMate O, was introduced by SAG as an adhesive label designed to be applied directly to injectable drug vials. It enables item-level tracking using UHF RFID, supporting pharmaceutical supply chain visibility and compliance requirements such as the U.S. Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA).  

Tracking liquid medications has long been challenging because liquids can interfere with radio signals, reducing RFID readability. The new label addresses this issue through a specialized antenna design that maintains consistent performance even when attached to small, curved glass vials filled with liquid.  

The label is compact—about 62 mm by 20 mm—and is designed for standard 10-mL pharmaceutical vials. It has been independently tested by AXIA Lab under conditions intended to mimic real hospital and pharmacy workflows. In those tests, the system achieved 100% read accuracy, even when many tagged vials were stored together and scanned from different directions.  

Another advantage of the design is that the same label can function across a range of injectable drug formulations with different dielectric properties. This eliminates the need to develop separate RFID labels for each formulation, which can reduce product complexity and inventory management overhead for pharmaceutical manufacturers.  

By enabling reliable RFID tagging directly on the vial, the technology could help pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers improve inventory control, reduce medication losses due to expiration or misplacement, and enhance traceability throughout the drug supply chain—from manufacturing to clinical use.  

The company says the labeling system has already completed validation testing and is ready for commercial deployment in high-volume pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.   

OMRON introduces VHV5 inline verifier for real-time barcode quality control

Omron Corporation has introduced the VHV5 inline verifier, a system designed to monitor barcode quality directly on production lines and ensure compliance with international standards. The device performs real-time verification of 1D and 2D barcodes as well as Direct Part Mark (DPM) codes, helping manufacturers confirm that codes are readable and meet industry requirements as they are created.  

Barcode quality is essential for product traceability throughout manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and final use. Inline verification allows companies to check code quality immediately after printing or marking, enabling operators to detect problems early and correct them before defective codes move further down the production process.  

The VHV5 system evaluates codes according to major standards including ISO/IEC 15416 for 1D barcodes, ISO/IEC 15415 for 2D symbols, and ISO/IEC TR 29158 (AIM DPM) for codes permanently marked on components. This ensures consistent grading results for labels, packaging, and directly marked parts used in industries such as automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.  

To improve accuracy on challenging surfaces, the verifier uses tilted coaxial lighting that reduces glare and enhances edge detection. This approach helps maintain reliable grading even on reflective metal parts, glossy labels, or curved packaging. The system also applies distortion-correction technology and flat-field image calibration to ensure that codes can be graded accurately regardless of viewing angle or position within the camera’s field of view.  

In addition to grading barcode quality, the VHV5 includes built-in GS1 syntax checking to confirm that encoded data follows the correct formatting rules. Setup and operation are simplified through a calibration wizard and a browser-based interface that allows users to configure and monitor the system without installing additional software. 

Barcode Scanner Market to Reach USD 13.2 Billion by 2033

The barcode scanner market is currently positioned as a critical enabler of digital transformation across multiple industries, including retail, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing. As organizations accelerate automation and data-driven operations, barcode scanners have become integral to inventory management, supply chain optimization, and real-time asset tracking. The market, valued at USD 8.1 billion in 2026, is projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% through 2033, reaching USD 13.2 billion.

Growth is being propelled by advancements in imaging technology, mobile scanning solutions, and the integration of barcode systems with enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms. Regulatory shifts toward traceability and serialization, particularly in pharmaceuticals and food sectors, are further elevating adoption. The market's strategic relevance is underscored by its role in enabling omnichannel commerce, enhancing operational transparency, and supporting compliance with evolving industry standards.

Key Takeaways from Barcode Scanner Market

- The barcode scanner market is forecast to expand from USD 8.1 billion in 2026 to USD 13.2 billion by 2033.
- A CAGR of 7.3% reflects sustained demand across retail, logistics, and healthcare sectors.
- Imaging-based barcode scanners are gaining market share due to superior accuracy and versatility.
- Mobile and wireless scanner adoption is accelerating, driven by workforce mobility requirements.
- Regulatory mandates for product traceability are fostering new deployment opportunities.
- Integration with ERP and warehouse management systems is enhancing operational efficiency.
- Asia Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region, supported by rapid industrialization and e-commerce expansion.