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GE, Qualcomm collaborate to bring indoor-positioning technology to retailers

May 21, 2015 - Retail shopping for tech-savvy customers is about to get interesting, say GE Lighting and Qualcomm Atheros, a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated.

May 21, 2015  By  Renée Francoeur



The companies are working together to bring indoor-positioning technology to major retailers, allowing stores to pinpoint shoppers’ locations and use mobile apps to personalize the experience. Technology embedded in new GE commercial LED bulbs creates pulse patterns to “talk” to shoppers’ smartphones and tablets. Retailers can then create new tools such as indoor navigation, infinite aisle, suggested items, product information, and special offers or coupons to those who download the app.

“Today’s consumers want a customized experience—from the news they read, to the games they play, to the products they buy, they expect technology-driven personalization,” said Jeff Bisberg, GE Lighting’s global general manager. “Working with Qualcomm Atheros, GE is harnessing the power of our commercial LED lighting to give retailers the opportunity to create an enhanced experience for shoppers securely, while respecting their privacy.”

A recent Google study found 71% of shoppers who use smartphones for research said their devices have become more important to their in-store experiences, according to GE.

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