Proximity and location technologies are key to the Internet of Things (IoT) and are causing our digital and physical worlds to converge. Mr. Beacon is a series of interviews with the leaders of companies that are at the center of this revolution. Steve Statler wrote "Beacon Technologies", a survival guide for people that want to design solutions that use Bluetooth beacons to create experiences that combine location awareness with the power of cloud computing.
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This week on the Mr. Beacon Podcast, I talk with Art Tkachenko about enabling Bluetooth devices to communicate directly with satellites. We explore Hubble’s hybrid terrestrial and satellite IoT network, ultra-low-cost global asset tracking, beamforming technology, AI-assisted engineering, and the future of Ambient IoT. It’s a fascinating look at how space-based connectivity could dramatically expand what’s possible for connected devices worldwide. Art’s Top 3 Songs: “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen:...
What is AI actually good for? Curt Schacker, Co-founder of TrackVision, joins me to answer that question with a real-world example that will resonate with anyone who has ever stared down a mountain of pre-project groundwork. The conversation explores where AI genuinely delivers, what it still cannot replace, and why the hardest part of any implementation might soon get a whole lot easier. Curt’s Top 3 Movies “It’s a Wonderful Life” by Frank Capra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLR3gZrU2Xo “The...
Sinfosy's innovative ambient IoT solution brings real-time asset visibility to manufacturing, utilizing common smartphones as powerful tracking tools. By combining integrated sensors, Bluetooth beacons for 1-meter accuracy, and QR codes for sub-millimeter precision, their 'System as a Service' model offers a scalable and cost-effective way to optimize logistics and production workflows. This approach eliminates the need for manual searching, providing crucial 'ground truth' data for enhanced efficiency and decision-making across diverse industries globally.
Dominique Guinard returns for his fifth appearance to explore C2PA, a rising standard for verifying digital content in the age of AI. As synthetic media becomes harder to detect, C2PA acts like a “nutrition label” for images, video, and text, revealing provenance and authenticity. We discuss how it works, who’s adopting it, and why it matters for misinformation, trust, and the future of digital media. Dom’s Top 3 Movies “Cube” by Vincenzo Natali: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Esjc0rPj3K4 “Aste...
Andy Ellwood, CEO of Stretch, explains his vision for reinventing grocery shopping through an AI-powered platform that transforms shopping lists into smart comparison tools. Drawing on lessons from Waze and a shopper-first design philosophy, Stretch aims to empower consumers by providing transparency on prices, discounts, and inventory across various stores. The conversation also explores the future of retail with "shopper-side" AI agents and insights into building a purpose-driven startup.
Simon Ford, founder of Blecon, returns to the Mr. Beacon Podcast to discuss a major milestone for the company and the broader IoT industry. Blecon’s new collaboration with Zebra enables existing frontline devices to become nodes in a Bluetooth network, unlocking asset tracking and operational visibility without new infrastructure. Simon and I explore practical use cases, supply-chain insights, and why this approach could help IoT finally scale. Simon’s 3 Favourite Movies “Baby Driver” directed b...
Connected packaging, utilizing QR codes and digital product passports, is revolutionizing how brands engage with consumers post-purchase, offering a two-way communication channel. Jenny Stanley highlights how this approach provides invaluable first-party data on consumer behavior, enabling personalized experiences and driving loyalty. She shares insights on effective campaign design, the importance of delivering consumer value, and how data shifts marketing strategies for major brands, while also discussing the evolution and challenges of implementing these technologies.
Steve Hanna, a Distinguished Engineer at Infineon, explores the complex landscape of security in Ambient IoT and AI-driven systems. He highlights real-world risks such as counterfeit goods and privacy invasions, while also offering practical solutions like cryptographic identity and low-power security. The discussion covers the importance of "secure by design" principles, compliance, and how AI both complicates and aids cybersecurity efforts, alongside personal career reflections.
Thaddeus Segura, SVP of Product at Vusion Group, explores the quiet revolution in retail driven by the massive deployment of electronic shelf labels (ESLs). He details how Vusion's technology, including e-ink displays and Bluetooth capabilities, automates dynamic pricing, improves planogram compliance, and enables advanced in-store intelligence through computer vision. The discussion also touches on global adoption differences, the strategic role of integrated hardware and software solutions, and the ethical implications of AI in retail.
Retail strategist Leon Nicholas explores the transformative forces in modern commerce, highlighting the impact of government regulation, consumer shifts, and technological advancements like AI and smart packaging. He explains how these elements are reshaping supply chains, in-store experiences, and the strategies retailers need to maintain longevity and relevance, emphasizing the future role of ubiquitous tagging and automation. The discussion also provides insights for tech companies looking to partner with retailers.
In this episode, WePower CEO Larry Richenstein shares his journey from angel investor to leading a kinetic energy harvesting company. He explains how WePower develops robust, battery-free IoT devices that generate significant power from motion, enabling reliable, multi-message transmissions for applications like water sensors and light switches. Larry also discusses WePower's unique licensing model, future visions for ASICs and hybrid energy solutions, and the transformative potential for smart cities and beyond.
This episode features Jose Cantera from the IOTA Foundation, who clarifies distributed ledger technology (DLT) and blockchain, addressing common skepticism. He highlights IOTA's Tangle, an energy-efficient DLT, and its application in real-world supply chain challenges like food transparency (e.g., Twin project in Africa) and Europe's Digital Product Passport. The discussion covers IOTA's scalability improvements, the importance of open-source solutions for developing nations, and how DLT integrates with existing standards and emerging technologies like AI to build trust and foster circular economies.
This episode features an interview with Ersan Günes from Inpixon, exploring the convergence of AI and IoT to revolutionize manufacturing and logistics. Günes details Inpixon's "Ask Pixie" AI bot, designed to provide emotional connection and operational insights for factories, and delves into their unique Chirp technology. The discussion also covers Inpixon's data-driven product development, AI tech stack, and the future role of robotics in industry, alongside personal insights from Ersan's Ironman journey.
This week on the Mr. Beacon Podcast, Qualcomm’s new Dragon Wing Q6690 chip, bringing RFID to smartphones—a long-promised shift for auto-ID and IoT. We also speak with Jason Wu, CEO of InPlay, about the $1 Bluetooth beacon and how InPlay’s NanoBeacon technology lowers costs, simplifies deployment, and opens new markets from smart labels to cold chain monitoring. A timely look at IoT’s evolving economics and ecosystem. Jason’s Favorite Song: “Tian Mi Mi” by Teresa Teng: https://www.youtube.com/wat...
Amir Khoshniyati of Wiliot details how Gen 3 battery-free Bluetooth tags are revolutionizing ambient IoT by offering enhanced performance, lower costs, and improved manufacturability. He emphasizes the critical role of partnerships and Wiliot's evolving commercial strategy to scale deployments from pilots to full implementation. The discussion covers practical use cases in food and quick-service restaurants, the future of phone-tag integration, and Wiliot's ultimate vision for a connected, sustainable world.
This episode welcomes back Giampaolo Marino of Energous to discuss their new battery-free Bluetooth sensor, ETAG, and software platform, e-Compass. The discussion delves into how this technology compares to other solutions, its technical design, and Energous's recent financial growth. Key ambient IoT applications, particularly in cold chain logistics and asset tracking, are explored, highlighting how continuous visibility saves costs and reduces waste.
In this episode of the Mr. Beacon Podcast, Jérôme Vernet, VP of Sales at Dracula Technologies, reveals how inkjet-printed organic photovoltaics harvest energy from ambient light—even indoors—to power IoT devices without batteries. From smart building sensors to asset trackers, learn how this customizable, sustainable technology reduces maintenance, improves design flexibility, and even works in moonlight, opening new possibilities for the ambient IoT revolution. Jerome’s Top 3 Favorite Songs: “U...
Adhithi Aji, CEO of Adrich, discusses how her company's smart labels transform everyday products into connected devices that track usage and enable auto-replenishment without an app. She highlights how this ambient IoT and AI solution bridges the 'last mile' data gap for brands, driving ROI through increased customer lifetime value and repeat orders, while significantly contributing to sustainability by reducing single-use plastics. The conversation also explores potential applications in healthcare compliance and the challenges of pioneering deep technology.
Entrepreneur Sze Wong recounts his challenging journey, from early startup attempts and a failed Java training school to building a successful consulting firm, and eventually creating Zenith Venture Studio. He explains how Zenith offers more than just capital, providing deep operational support to non-technical founders with industry expertise. The studio aims to de-risk investments for downstream VCs by focusing on "boring" yet lucrative business problems, leveraging AI, and seeking collaborative founders eager to build alongside the studio.
Thomas Roedding, CEO of Narravero, discusses Digital Product Passports (DPPs) and their role in compliance, sustainability, and customer engagement, driven by EU regulations. He explains Narravero's work in implementing DPPs, highlighting the balance between regulatory "duty" and business "beauty," such as enhanced customer relationships and supply chain efficiency. The conversation also touches on global perspectives, the role of management consultants, and the impact of AI.
Kirsten Newquist, CEO of Identive, shares insights on leading the specialized IoT company. She details Identive's engineering and manufacturing strengths, their Perform-Accelerate-Transform growth strategy, and the strategic divestment that fueled their focus on RFID/IoT. Kirsten also highlights key healthcare applications for Auto-ID technology and discusses her values-driven leadership approach and career journey.
Mark Jacobstein of Near Horizon discusses the current venture capital market, the significant impact of AI on investing criteria and startup development costs, and shares insights from his Silicon Valley journey, including lessons from a past startup failure alongside Sam Altman. He explains Near Horizon's venture builder model and offers career advice for navigating the AI-driven future, touching on potential AI risks and the importance of curiosity.
In this episode, Donna Lanzetta discusses her work in sustainable aquaculture, using blockchain technology to ensure seafood traceability, combat fraud, and promote ethical sourcing. She highlights the importance of transparency in the supply chain, from ocean to plate, and shares her vision for a future where consumers are empowered to make informed choices. Lanzetta also touches on the regulatory landscape and the role of technology in driving positive change in the seafood industry.
In this exclusive episode of the Mr. Beacon Podcast, Thomas Knothe, Chair of JTC 24, shares insights into the new Digital Product Passport (DPP) standards. As one of the few cleared to speak publicly, Thomas reveals how DPPs will transform global commerce, ensure sustainability, and drive regulatory compliance. Don’t miss this rare conversation that explores the future of digital-physical convergence—and the major opportunities it creates. Thomas’ Favorite Songs: “That’s So True” by Gracie Abram...
Kevin Dewald, founder of SimpleBLE and former Neuralink engineer, discusses simplifying Bluetooth development with cross-platform solutions. He shares insights into building high-performance teams inspired by Elon Musk, and the challenges of integrating Bluetooth technology in medical implants, including Neuralink. The episode also explores Kevin's journey from Argentina to Silicon Valley and his perspectives on open source development.
This episode explores the future of wireless power in Ambient IoT with Giampaolo Marino from Energous. The discussion highlights Energous' PowerBridge Pro, enabling battery-free sensors across retail, logistics, and manufacturing. Also covered are insights into IoT adoption, infrastructure simplification, the Ambient IoT Alliance, and Giampaolo's personal background and musical influences.
Fabio Belloni, CEO of Quuppa, discusses the latest advancements in real-time location systems (RTLS), including their Bluetooth angle-of-arrival technology. He covers various applications in logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and even unconventional areas like trampoline parks and pet hotels. The episode also explores market trends, competitive technologies like UWB and channel sounding, and insights into Quuppa's product evolution and customer success stories.
Kick off 2025 with Kristen Hovland, CEO of Keep-it Technologies and leader of the Smart Food Tech Coalition, as we explore how smart packaging and IoT are revolutionizing food freshness, safety, and sustainability. Learn about dynamic freshness indicators that reduce food waste and empower consumers, alongside efforts to modernize regulations and educate the public. A must-listen for future-focused foodies! Kristen’s Top 3 Songs with Meaning: “Stuck With You” by Huey Lewis and The News: https://...
This week on the Mr. Beacon Podcast, Wiggs Civitillo, CEO and Co-Founder of Starfish, shares how his company is revolutionizing supply chain traceability. Starfish simplifies data sharing for compliance with FSMA 204, enhancing food safety, reducing waste, and building consumer trust. Learn how traceability unlocks value through insights, sustainability tracking, and ambient IoT innovations. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of transparent, efficient supply chains. Wiggs’ Top 3 Songs wit...
This week on The Mr. Beacon Podcast, Sanjay Sharma, CEO of Roambee, helps us to further explore the future of IoT enabled supply chain visibility. Discover how Roambee’s real-time sensing solutions impact global trade, reducing disputes, optimizing logistics, and enabling autonomous supply chains. Sanjay shares insights on tackling modern supply chain complexities, leveraging printed battery powered GPS technologies, and achieving measurable ROI. A must-listen for supply chain professionals, thi...
