Qualcomm Unveils Proximity Marketing Contender Gimbal

Gimbal use caseQualcomm’s retail solutions division has launched a geofencing beacon for both indoor and outdoor proximity marketing campaigns.

The Gimbal beacon works via bluetooth and is accurate down to one foot. The company has outlined potential use cases for transport companies, entertainment venues and supermarkets to create geofenced areas around their buildings and then send personalised push notifications via their apps. The beacons work in conjunction with the Gimbal platform, which enables marketers to create, manage and optimise highly targeted proximity marketing campaigns.

The company says they are initially only compatible with iOS devices – not unlike Apples iBeacons – but Android support is on the way. The beacons cost as little as $5 depending on the model and volume purchased. To address user privacy concerns, the Gimbal platform requires opt-in from consumers.

4G LTE, 64-bit processing

Qualcomm has also announced that it will be rolling out a 4G-ready, 64-bit chipset for use in budget conscious Android, Windows Phone and Firefox devices by H2 next year.

The company is particularly focused on ensuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon will be available to consumers in China as 4G LTE demand grows, along with other emerging markets.

The processor supports the Adreno 306 GPU, full HD video and up to a 13-megapixel camera. The company has also integrated its own NFC tech, as well as support for major global location technologies.

The processor still comes with options to support 2G and 3G devices, as well as offering dual and triple SIM opportunities.