A Beacon is only useful when a phone notices it. This article covers how a Beacon talks to a smartphone app: advertising formats, distance triggers, platform background limits, and the privacy steps users expect.
How a Beacon reaches a phone
A Beacon broadcasts small packets that a phone’s Bluetooth stack scans in the background. The app receives a callback with the signal strength (RSSI), which it turns into an approximate distance.
iBeacon vs Eddystone
Apple’s iBeacon and Google’s Eddystone are the two dominant formats. A Beacon can advertise either; Eddystone also carries a URL, while iBeacon exposes a UUID/major/minor. Choose based on your app ecosystem.
Distance threshold triggering
Apps compare RSSI to a threshold to fire actions—welcome messages, unlock, or check-in. A well-tuned Beacon deployment avoids flapping by adding hysteresis around the trigger point.
iOS and Android background limits
Both platforms restrict background Bluetooth. iOS delivers didEnterRegion only when crossing a region boundary; Android needs a foreground service for steady scanning. Design the Beacon experience so it still works under these limits.
Nearby notifications and opt-in
Push-style proximity messages must be opt-in. A Beacon that spams notifications erodes trust; ask permission first and keep messages relevant.
Privacy authorization flow
Users should consent to location and Bluetooth use. A transparent Beacon integration explains what data is collected and lets users disable it at any time.
Conclusion
Great proximity experiences respect the platform and the person. With the right format, careful triggers, and clear privacy, a Beacon becomes a helpful companion rather than an annoyance.