inMarket has announced the launch of the first multi-retailer Apple iBeacon platform with the first grocery marketing solution of its kind. Its "Mobile to Mortar" network utilizes Apple's iBeacon platform to augment the grocery shopping experience for consumers across the country beginning January 6.
Image Credit: inMarket
The launch of the the technology will be in about 150 grocery stores in Seattle, San Francisco and Cleveland -- with additional retailers and markets coming soon.
Todd Dipaola, CEO and co-founder of inMarket said, "We are thrilled to be making history by writing the first chapter of micro-location iBeacons helping shoppers' everyday lives. Besides Apple themselves, we are the first to take this groundbreaking technology out of beta tests and into consumers' lives throughout the heartland of the US."
According to the press release, "iBeacons are micro-location technology that use a low-energy Bluetooth signal to enable unique mobile app experiences with higher accuracy than GPS. As inMarket rolls out its iBeacon network, it will provide shoppers with a wide range of benefits -- like custom coupons, loyalty rewards, and grocery list reminders -- when it matters most: in store."
A video of the of the platform's capabilities has been provided.
A detailed and very readable explanation of how and why iBeacon appeals to retailers has been posted by Doug Thompson at beekn.net. More information about the Mobile to Mortar program is at the inMarket website.