Can ION handle a multi-floor navigation experience?

Absolutely. The altitude detection of each waypoint allows us to effortlessly identify the floor on which the user is navigating.

Are there any signals that can interfere with the indoor navigation algorithm?

The algorithm has been successfully applied in various industrial realities and does not suffer interference from other devices.

Do I need to install any hardware in my facility to use ION?

You do not. Because of its sophisticated software structure, ION does not need any hardware installed on-site to work properly.

Beacon-Based vs. Geomagnetic Field-Based Indoor Positioning: Which One Comes Out on Top?

Imagine walking into a massive shopping mall, a sprawling airport, or a high-tech museum and instantly knowing exactly where to go—without having to ask for directions. That’s the promise of indoor positioning systems (IPS), which help users navigate complex indoor spaces with pinpoint accuracy. But what’s the best way to make that happen?

Two competing technologies—beacon-based and geomagnetic field-based positioning—are shaping the future of indoor navigation. While beacon-based systems rely on Bluetooth signals from small transmitters, geomagnetic field-based positioning taps into the Earth’s natural magnetic landscape to guide users. But which is the better choice? Let’s explore the key differences and find out why geomagnetic field-based positioning is emerging as the superior solution.

Beacon-Based Indoor Positioning: How It Works

Beacon-based systems utilize Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons strategically placed throughout an indoor space. These beacons emit signals that are detected by smartphones or other BLE-enabled devices. The system estimates the user's location by analyzing the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) from multiple beacons, employing methods such as trilateration or weighted centroid localization to determine proximity and position.

Why It’s Used:

Provides good accuracy in well-configured environments.
Enables real-time tracking, making it useful for navigation, security, and retail analytics.

Geomagnetic Field-Based Positioning: A Smarter Alternative

Rather than relying on external hardware, geomagnetic positioning takes advantage of the Earth’s natural magnetic field. When buildings are constructed, their structures create unique distortions in the magnetic field, forming a distinct magnetic fingerprint. Smartphones equipped with magnetometers can detect these variations and compare them to pre-mapped environments, enabling accurate positioning.

Why It’s Better:

Requires no additional infrastructure, reducing costs and complexity.
Works seamlessly with modern smartphones, eliminating the need for external beacons.
Less affected by obstacles or interference, making it more reliable in real-world environments.

Comparing the Two: Why Geomagnetic Positioning Wins

When it comes to choosing an indoor positioning technology, it’s essential to consider cost, scalability, accuracy, and ease of deployment. Here’s how the two technologies stack up:

Indoor Positioning System - Comparison Chart by Hidonix

The Future of Indoor Navigation

While beacon-based positioning has been widely adopted, geomagnetic field-based positioning is proving to be a more scalable and cost-effective alternative. With no need for additional hardware, minimal maintenance, and seamless smartphone integration, geomagnetic positioning is paving the way for a new era of indoor navigation.

As industries continue to adopt indoor positioning solutions, the shift toward geomagnetic technology is becoming clear. Whether for shopping malls, hospitals, or airports, this infrastructure-free approach is revolutionizing the way we navigate indoor spaces—one magnetic field at a time.

Introducing ION: The Future of Indoor Positioning

At Hidonix, we’ve harnessed the power of geomagnetic field-based navigation to create ION, our next-generation indoor positioning system. ION delivers unparalleled accuracy, effortless scalability, and a seamless user experience—all without the need for costly infrastructure.

Want to see how ION is setting new standards for indoor navigation? Watch our video below and discover why it’s the best solution for the future of indoor positioning.