The recent FiRa® Consortium face-to-face event in Osaka, Japan, brought together a dynamic group of members and guests to explore the latest advancements in UWB technology. This unique gathering provided both FiRa members and non-members with a platform to showcase their UWB-enabled solutions, sparking thought-provoking discussions about the technology's potential and growing role across industries.
FiRa Consortium Demos
These are the demonstrations that highlighted the versatility and impact of UWB:
iMago and JCB: Chikazuite-Check
iMago and JCB introduced “Chikazuite-Check,” a UWB-enabled payment solution that makes checkout transactions seamless and contact-free. Combining UWB with Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), the system allows users to pre-configure their checkout preferences—such as payment method, age verification, or eco-friendly options—via a smartphone app. Upon entering a store, these preferences are automatically communicated to the cashier’s system, eliminating the need for physical interaction. This innovative solution, shaped by insights from Japanese youth, addresses the growing demand for streamlined, low-contact shopping experiences.
Pinpoint: Accurate Indoor Navigation with FiRa DL-TDOA
Pinpoint demonstrated how UWB technology enhances indoor navigation accuracy through FiRa’s Distance-Based Location-Time Difference of Arrival (DL-TDOA) method. Attendees experienced real-time positioning using commercially available smartphones, including the Google Pixel 8 Pro and Samsung Galaxy models. This technology offers precise indoor navigation capabilities, ideal for large venues like airports, shopping malls, and stadiums. The demonstration showcased the potential of UWB to deliver seamless and intuitive guidance in environments where traditional navigation systems often fall short.
Sharp: Immersive Museum Experiences with UWB
In a compelling showcase of location-based services, Sharp unveiled an interactive museum tour concept. With the FiRa DL-TDOA-based system, users could explore a simulated museum and receive contextual information, such as artwork descriptions, based on their precise position. This demo illustrated how UWB could transform educational, cultural, or commercial spaces, providing a rich, immersive experience where location-specific information is delivered in real time as users approach different exhibits.
A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration
The Osaka event was not just a showcase of cutting-edge technology; it was also a space for meaningful dialogue. Participants exchanged insights on UWB’s current applications and future potential, exploring how FiRa’s technology drives innovation across industries.
The enthusiastic response from attendees reinforced UWB’s status as a transformative force in today’s technology landscape. Events like these highlight the power of collaboration in shaping the future of UWB and creating new opportunities for its adoption worldwide.