The challenge: The challenge presented to me was to explore the possibilities that the emerging iBeacons technology could offer to Ford.
The solution: Recognizing the potential of this technology to enhance the customer experience in dealerships, I embarked on a journey to leverage iBeacons for indoor mapping and locational sensitive experiences.
To kickstart this endeavour, I set out to build location-aware experiences in Ford dealerships. Pushing the boundaries of innovation, I successfully implemented this technology in a Barcelona dealership, impressively launching it two days ahead of Apple’s own implementation in their stores. This early adoption showcased Ford’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technology and providing customers with cutting-edge experiences.
Building upon this initial success, I delved deeper into the capabilities of iBeacons and focused on developing an algorithm to measure Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) against real distances, by carrying out experiments to measure BLE strength against real distances. By leveraging geometry and mathematical calculations, I engineered an algorithm that accurately determined an individual’s location based on their distance from a set of strategically placed beacons. This breakthrough allowed for precise indoor mapping, enabling customers to navigate dealerships seamlessly and access relevant information based on their proximity to specific areas.
Continuing my exploration of indoor mapping, I extended my experiments to include motor shows and other events where Ford had a presence. By harnessing the power of iBeacons and integrating them into the mapping infrastructure, I enabled visitors to experience personalized and contextually relevant information based on their precise location within the venue. This innovative approach not only enhanced the engagement of attendees but also demonstrated Ford’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to create memorable experiences.
Overall, my work in indoor mapping using iBeacons showcased the transformative power of this technology in the automotive industry. It allowed Ford to provide customers with immersive and personalized experiences, improving navigation, accessibility, and engagement within dealerships and other event spaces. By embracing innovative solutions like iBeacons, Ford demonstrated its commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering exceptional experiences to its customers.
Tech stack: iBeacons, BLE, iOS Development, Objective C